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The composition of the human vaginal microbiome has been linked to a variety of medical conditions including yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, and sexually transmitted infection. The vaginal microbiome is becoming increasingly acknowledged as a key factor in personal health, and it is essential to establish methods to collect and process accurate samples with self-collection techniques to allow large, population-based studies. In this study, we investigate if using AssayAssure Genelock, a nucleic acid preservative, introduces microbial biases in self-collected vaginal samples. To our knowledge, we also contribute some of the first evidence regarding the impacts of multiple swabs taken at one time point. Vaginal samples have relatively low biomass, so the ability to collect multiple swabs from a unique participant at a single time would greatly improve the replicability and data available for future studies. This will hopefully lay the groundwork to gain a more complete and accurate understanding of the vaginal microbiome.

A technology is developed for manufacturing planar microfluidic chips (MFCs) based on Silgard 8040, encompassing template fabrication, mold production, sealing, and adsorbent filling. These MFCs, filled with a Porapak-Q adsorbent, facilitate sample preparation and calibration under uniform conditions, integrating both sample collection and preconcentration stages. Experimental investigations have identified optimal conditions for acetone preconcentration using Silgard 8040-based MFCs, achieving a maximum concentration factor of 43 at adsorption temperature (Tads) of 0°C, desorption temperature (Tdes) of 70°C, adsorption volume (Vads) of 45 mL, and desorption time (tdes) of 1 s. The feasibility of using MFCs for sample collection and preparation, taking into account sample storage time, has been evaluated. The procedure maintains accuracy within 6–10% over 8 h without a necessity for additional drying of the collected samples from exhaled air. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing burden of osteoarthritis worldwide, cost efficient and reliable models are needed to enable the development of innovative therapies or therapeutic interventions. Ex vivo models have been identified as valuable modalities in translational research, bridging the gap between in vitro and in vivo models. Osteocartilaginous explants from Osteoarthritis (OA) patients offer an exquisite opportunity for studying OA progression and testing novel therapies. We describe the protocol for establishing human osteocartilaginous explants with or without co-culture of homologous synovial tissue. Furthermore, a detailed protocol for the assessment of explanted tissue in terms of protein content using Western blot and immunohistochemistry is provided. Commentaries regarding the technique of choice, possible variations and expected results are inserted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to discharge ballast in waters of the USA and Member States of the IMO, a vessel must comply with ballast water discharge standards (BWDS). In most cases, this involves use of a Type-Approved ballast water management system (BWMS). Although rigorous efficacy testing is required to gain Type-Approval status, there are currently no requirements for regular compliance checks after a BWMS has been commissioned. Routine compliance checks, to enumerate organisms in treated discharges, are currently the only way to know if a system is meeting a BWDS. This policy brief has two objectives: 1) Highlight the importance of routine collection and analysis of treated ballast water discharges, and 2) Present technical considerations to perform compliance assessments, highlighting good practices for sample collection and analysis and advising of potential obstacles. These assessments are necessary to inhibit the spread of non-indigenous species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This comprehensive review explores the critical importance of the preanalytical phase in hematology laboratory testing and its significant impact on the overall quality of results. The preanalytical phase encompasses all the processes from sample collection to sample preparation, and any errors during this stage can lead to inaccurate and unreliable hematological data. By systematically examining the various sources of preanalytical errors, including specimen collection, transportation, and handling, this review provides insights into the potential challenges faced in the hematology laboratory. Furthermore, the article discusses a range of effective prevention strategies to mitigate preanalytical phase errors and enhance the reliability of hematological test results. These strategies encompass improvements in staff training, standardization of collection procedures, implementation of quality control measures, and advancements in technology and automation. The review emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of awareness and adherence to best practices in the laboratory setting. Preanalytical errors remain a major concern in every laboratory because the majority of the stages leading up to these errors are not within the direct control of the laboratory. Even though they cannot be eliminated, they can definitely be minimized. The preanalytical errors of a hematology laboratory can be reduced with the help of quality management systems, personnel training, regular audits, and automation in the preanalytical stage, thus increasing the accuracy of the results and providing better patient care.

Bone is a kind ofliving tissue with metabolism, which completes bone reconstruction through bone absorption and formation. Bone reconstruction is also a molecular biological characteristic that runs throughout life. Biochemical substances involved in and maintaining bone metabolism determine bone quality and density, regulate the internal environment and biological activity of bone metabolism. The biochemical indicators of bone metabolism are derived from bone, cartilage, soft tissue, skin, liver, kidney, small intestine, blood, and endocrine glands. Changes in bone metabolism biochemical indicators can be obtained through in vitro experimental methods, providing important molecular biology basis for clinical diagnosis, diagnostic classification, diagnosis and differential diagnosis, treatment evaluation, scientific research, and other aspects of osteoporosis. In order to improve diagnostic quality and promote the application of new technologies, it is necessary to improve experimental standards for mutual recognition of experimental methods, stable detection results, and data consensus. This article discusses the principles of experimental methods, sample collection and storage, analysis of test results, and the influencing factors of the experiment, aiming to provide application references. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From 2015 to 2023, we conducted a comprehensive study in the 11,893-hectare hunting area managed by the Marcal-Bitvaközi Hunting Company, characterised by its substantial wild boar population. The research was carried out across various settings, including a free-range wild boar garden during large-scale hunts and free-living areas during individual hunts. We examined 216 wild boars in total, with 173 individuals from free-living areas and 43 from free-range areas. Throughout the sample collection process, we encountered numerous technical challenges that are infrequently detailed in the professional literature, often mentioned only tangentially. This oversight in existing publications neglects the significance of addressing field sampling difficulties, which are crucial for ensuring the precision and accuracy of research. This paper details the equipment requirements, sampling methodologies, and practical solutions to streamline fieldwork. While our primary focus was on endoparasitic infections of the stomach and small intestine, the described methodologies and findings are broadly applicable to research involving all internal organs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volatile organic compounds have drawn significant attention in recent years as a novel tool for non-invasive detection of a wide range of diseases, including gastrointestinal cancers, for which the need for effective, affordable, and non-invasive screening methods is substantial. Sample preparation is a fundamental step that greatly influences the quality of results and the feasibility of wide-range applications. This review summarizes sampling methods used in studies aiming at testing the diagnostic value of volatile organic compounds in gastrointestinal cancers, discussing in detail some of the recent advancements in automated sampling techniques. Finally, we propose some directions in which sample collection and processing can improve for VOC analysis to be popularized in clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring the quality of marine water is crucial for ensuring the health and sustainability of marine ecosystems. The conventional monitoring approach involves manual sampling using a water sampler, followed by packaging the water samples in plastic bottles and transporting them to a terrestrial laboratory for analysis. However, this method is time consuming, labor intensive, and cannot provide real-time data for addressing unforeseen circumstances. In response to these challenges, an advanced shipborne integrated platform for water quality inspection (ASIPWQI) has been proposed and implemented. This system automates the collection of multi-layer seawater samples in the vertical profile, conducts online measurements of monitoring elements, and provides real-time measurement data. In multiple sea trials, ASIPWQI successfully conducted onsite collection and measurement of a significant number of samples, meeting the water quality monitoring requirements in China’s nearshore waters. Comparative analysis of the laboratory measurement results for nutrients, heavy metals, and total phosphorus and nitrogen in water samples collected using automatic and manual methods revealed no significant differences between the two sampling approaches and demonstrated strong correlation. Further analysis using practical relative error (PRE) statistical methods showed that the data rate of most monitoring elements with relative errors less than 10% was higher than 70%, with nitrite, silicate, and phosphate even exceeding 90%. This indicate that ASIPWQI has excellent stability and applicability, offering a viable alternative to traditional manual sampling and laboratory testing. This innovation makes water quality monitoring significantly more efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the importance of quality assurance and quality control practices in the process control laboratory is key for operators to produce reliable data and make informed treatment decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a significant need to develop new environmentally friendly, extraction-free sample collection mediums that can effectively preserve and protect genetic material for point-of-care and/or self-collection, home-collection, and mail-back testing. Systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) was used to create anti-ribonuclease (RNase) deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) aptamers against purified RNase A conjugated to paramagnetic carboxylated beads. Following eight rounds of SELEX carried out under various stringency conditions, e.g., selection using Xtract-Free™ (XF) specimen collection medium and elevated ambient temperature of 28 °C, a panel of five aptamers was chosen following bioinformatic analysis using next-generation sequencing. The efficacy of aptamer inactivation of RNase was assessed by monitoring ribonucleic acid (RNA) integrity via fluorometric and real-time RT-PCR analysis. Inclusion of aptamers in reaction incubations resulted in an 8800- to 11,200-fold reduction in RNase activity, i.e., digestion of viral RNA compared to control. Thus, anti-RNase aptamers integrated into XF collection medium as well as other commercial reagents and kits have great potential for ensuring quality intact RNA for subsequent genomic analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Safe landings are imperative to accomplish NASA's Artemis goal to enable human exploration on the Moon, including sample collection missions. However, a process known as plume surface interaction (PSI) presents a significant hazard to lunar landings. PSI occurs when the engine exhaust of a lander interacts with the surface ejecting large amounts of regolith particles at high velocities that can interfere with the landing, disturb the surface, and damage hardware. To better understand PSI, the particle impact event (PIE) sensor is being developed to measure the kinetic energy and the flux of ejecta during landings, to quantify the potential damage, and to quantify the ejecta displaced. Multiple parameters were estimated to define the PIE instrument requirements. These estimates demonstrate that ejecta can travel at velocities of up to 800 m/s and impact the surrounding area with energies of up to 400 µJ. A significant amount of ejecta can be deposited several 10 s of meters away from the landing site, modifying the surface and causing dust-related challenges. The PIE sensor will be launched for the first time in an upcoming lunar lander. Then, PIE measurements will be used to improve PSI prediction capabilities and develop mitigation strategies to ensure safe landings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microbial cells colonizing the human body form an ecosystem that is integral to the regulation and maintenance of human health. Elucidation of specific associations between the human microbiome and health outcomes is facilitating the development of microbiome-targeted recommendations and treatments (e.g., fecal microbiota transplant; pre-, pro-, and post-biotics) to help prevent and treat disease. However, the potential of such recommendations and treatments to improve human health has yet to be fully realized. Technological advances have led to the development and proliferation of a wide range of tools and methods to collect, store, sequence, and analyze microbiome samples. However, differences in methodology at each step in these analytic processes can lead to variability in results due to the unique biases and limitations of each component. This technical variability hampers the detection and validation of associations with small to medium effect sizes. Therefore, the American Society for Nutrition (ASN) Nutritional Microbiology Group Engaging Members (GEM), sponsored by the Institute for the Advancement of Food and Nutrition Sciences (IAFNS), hosted a satellite session on methods in nutrition and gut microbiome research to review currently available methods for microbiome research, best practices, as well as tools and standards to aid in comparability of methods and results. This manuscript summarizes the topics and research discussed at the session. Consideration of the guidelines and principles reviewed in this session will increase the accuracy, precision, and comparability of microbiome research and ultimately the understanding of the associations between the human microbiome and health.

Purpose of Review: The role of the gut microbiome in prostate cancer is an emerging area of research interest. However, no single causative organism has yet been identified. The goal of this paper is to examine the role of the microbiome in prostate cancer and summarize the challenges relating to methodology in specimen collection, sequencing technology, and interpretation of results. Recent Findings: Significant heterogeneity still exists in methodology for stool sampling/storage, preservative options, DNA extraction, and sequencing database selection/in silico processing. Debate persists over primer choice in amplicon sequencing as well as optimal methods for data normalization. Statistical methods for longitudinal microbiome analysis continue to undergo refinement. Summary: While standardization of methodology may help yield more consistent results for organism identification in prostate cancer, this is a difficult task due to considerable procedural variation at each step in the process. Further reproducibility and methodology research is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wearable electrochemical sensors, which can track various biomarkers in real‐time, is one of the most promising bioanalytical devices in the point of care testing and health management. Sample collection modules, as the important front‐end of the sensors, capture and transfer enough sample so as to achieve real‐time, precise and accurate detection. Noninvasive and minimally invasive techniques for sample collection are highly desired. However, it is still a key challenge to realize a reliable sample acquisition. Herein, we provide an overview on the progress in the sample collection methods for wearable electrochemical sensors. It covers the conventional and emerging methods/structures including reverse iontophoresis, microneedles, as well as microfluidic chips. The working principle, fabrication materials and manufacturing technologies will be introduced in detail. Finally, the present challenges and the development trend in the future of these approaches are also put forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This comprehensive review explores the critical importance of the preanalytical phase in hematology laboratory testing and its significant impact on the overall quality of results. The preanalytical phase encompasses all the processes from sample collection to sample preparation, and any errors during this stage can lead to inaccurate and unreliable hematological data. By systematically examining the various sources of preanalytical errors, including specimen collection, transportation, and handling, this review provides insights into the potential challenges faced in the hematology laboratory. Furthermore, the article discusses a range of effective prevention strategies to mitigate preanalytical phase errors and enhance the reliability of hematological test results. These strategies encompass improvements in staff training, standardization of collection procedures, implementation of quality control measures, and advancements in technology and automation. The review emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of awareness and adherence to best practices in the laboratory setting. Preanalytical errors remain a major concern in every laboratory because the majority of the stages leading up to these errors are not within the direct control of the laboratory. Even though they cannot be eliminated, they can definitely be minimized. The preanalytical errors of a hematology laboratory can be reduced with the help of quality management systems, personnel training, regular audits, and automation in the preanalytical stage, thus increasing the accuracy of the results and providing better patient care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to discharge ballast in waters of the USA and Member States of the IMO, a vessel must comply with ballast water discharge standards (BWDS). In most cases, this involves use of a Type-Approved ballast water management system (BWMS). Although rigorous efficacy testing is required to gain Type-Approval status, there are currently no requirements for regular compliance checks after a BWMS has been commissioned. Routine compliance checks, to enumerate organisms in treated discharges, are currently the only way to know if a system is meeting a BWDS. This policy brief has two objectives: 1) Highlight the importance of routine collection and analysis of treated ballast water discharges, and 2) Present technical considerations to perform compliance assessments, highlighting good practices for sample collection and analysis and advising of potential obstacles. These assessments are necessary to inhibit the spread of non-indigenous species.

ABSTRACT Esophageal cancer (EC) is a multifaceted disease. Our understanding of the involvement of esophageal microbiota in its pathogenesis and progression is limited, which is due to the lack of proper endoscopic sampling methods. Hereby, we conducted a comparative analysis of paired samples obtained through endoscopic brushing and cytosponge, aiming at assessing the feasibility of using cytosponge as a minimally invasive sampling way for studying esophageal microbiota. Our findings suggest that cytosponge sampling yielded significantly superior community richness and diversity compared to endoscopic brushing in both controls (non-cancerous) and EC individuals. The analysis of beta-diversity revealed distinct microbial community pattern in the genus diversity between the two sampling methods, underscoring the importance of selecting appropriate sampling methods to effectively characterize the esophageal microbiota. Specifically, Lactococcus and Serratia showed higher abundance in the samples collected by endoscopic brushing, while Alloprevotella and Leptotrichia were more enriched in the samples collected by cytosponge. These differences in dominant microbes were associated with metabolic pathways that particularly were related to host inflammation, such as pyruvate and glucose metabolisms. Notably, the phylogenetic levels of the microbiota indicated varied explanatory power for different detection purposes. This study underscores the substantial impact of sampling method selection on the acquisition of esophageal microbiota associated with the EC development, encompassing considerations of both abundance and diversity. This highlights the significance of selecting an appropriate sampling method for investigating the esophageal microbial status and studying the micro-environment in EC-related individuals.IMPORTANCEThis study addresses a critical issue in esophageal cancer study by comparing two different sampling methods, endoscopic brushing and cytosponge, for investigating the esophageal microbiota. Our work highlights the suitability of the cytosponge technique as a minimally invasive sampling method for studying the esophageal microbiota and emphasizes the importance of selecting an appropriate sampling method to characterize the microbial community. Our findings have significant implications for advancing the understanding of the role of the esophageal microbiota in cancer development and will inform future research and clinical approaches in this field.

The dynamic changes of amniotic fluid during pregnancy are crucial for the development, protection, defense and nutrition of the fetus. Amniotic fluid contains a variety of trace biomarkers, such as microRNA, free DNA, reactive oxygen species, interleukin and metabolomics, etc., which are of great significance for fetal health, diagnosis and drug control of various diseases. This article reviews the latest advances in the detection of microbial markers in amniotic fluid, and introduces the methods of amniotic fluid collection and attention. In addition, the biological approach to amniotic fluid testing is discussed. Finally, the challenges of amniotic fluid sample testing are discussed, with a view to promoting the clinical application of amniotic fluid in the field of assisted reproduction.

Sexual assault kits are the standard method for collecting and preserving sexual assault evidence. During the sexual assault examination, swabs are commonly used to collect bodily fluids as sexual assault evidence from the vagina, anus, mouth, and skin. The type of fiber swab used during collection can greatly influence the recovery of the substrate. In cases where lubricant residue may be present, it would be useful to identify the swab type that would be the most efficient in the collection of lubricant residues. In this study, four types of swabs with different fibers (i.e., cotton, polyester, rayon, and foam) with sexual lubricants present, were extracted in various solvents. The extracts were analyzed using attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy. The Pearson correlation coefficient (PCCs) test was applied to determine a pairwise comparison between swab lube extracts and the standard lubricant reference. Visual comparisons of the lubricant reference, blank fiber swab, and the fiber lubricant extract were used to determine peak overlap, significance, and matrix interference.

With the increasing burden of osteoarthritis worldwide, cost efficient and reliable models are needed to enable the development of innovative therapies or therapeutic interventions. Ex vivo models have been identified as valuable modalities in translational research, bridging the gap between in vitro and in vivo models. Osteocartilaginous explants from Osteoarthritis (OA) patients offer an exquisite opportunity for studying OA progression and testing novel therapies. We describe the protocol for establishing human osteocartilaginous explants with or without co-culture of homologous synovial tissue. Furthermore, a detailed protocol for the assessment of explanted tissue in terms of protein content using Western blot and immunohistochemistry is provided. Commentaries regarding the technique of choice, possible variations and expected results are inserted.

Due to the lack of clarity in the current methods for the extraction of phenolic compounds (CF) from native Mexican quelites (NQM), the present study analyzed the methods of harvesting, drying process, grinding, storage, solvent selection and methods. Samples were analyzed through a systematic review of articles published in peer-reviewed and indexed journals (n = 31). The results show a lack of homogeneity in the analyzed protocols for sample extraction and processing, which makes it difficult to compare and discuss the results of different original scientific articles. Therefore, the most commonly used standard techniques in the literature are proposed so that the results can be compared and discussed in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual assault kits are the standard method for collecting and preserving sexual assault evidence. During the sexual assault examination, swabs are commonly used to collect bodily fluids as sexual assault evidence from the vagina, anus, mouth, and skin. The type of fiber swab used during collection can greatly influence the recovery of the substrate. In cases where lubricant residue may be present, it would be useful to identify the swab type that would be the most efficient in the collection of lubricant residues. In this study, four types of swabs with different fibers (i.e., cotton, polyester, rayon, and foam) with sexual lubricants present, were extracted in various solvents. The extracts were analyzed using attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy. The Pearson correlation coefficient (PCCs) test was applied to determine a pairwise comparison between swab lube extracts and the standard lubricant reference. Visual comparisons of the lubricant reference, blank fiber swab, and the fiber lubricant extract were used to determine peak overlap, significance, and matrix interference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From 2015 to 2023, we conducted a comprehensive study in the 11,893-hectare hunting area managed by the Marcal-Bitvaközi Hunting Company, characterised by its substantial wild boar population. The research was carried out across various settings, including a free-range wild boar garden during large-scale hunts and free-living areas during individual hunts. We examined 216 wild boars in total, with 173 individuals from free-living areas and 43 from free-range areas. Throughout the sample collection process, we encountered numerous technical challenges that are infrequently detailed in the professional literature, often mentioned only tangentially. This oversight in existing publications neglects the significance of addressing field sampling difficulties, which are crucial for ensuring the precision and accuracy of research. This paper details the equipment requirements, sampling methodologies, and practical solutions to streamline fieldwork. While our primary focus was on endoparasitic infections of the stomach and small intestine, the described methodologies and findings are broadly applicable to research involving all internal organs.

Volatile organic compounds have drawn significant attention in recent years as a novel tool for non-invasive detection of a wide range of diseases, including gastrointestinal cancers, for which the need for effective, affordable, and non-invasive screening methods is substantial. Sample preparation is a fundamental step that greatly influences the quality of results and the feasibility of wide-range applications. This review summarizes sampling methods used in studies aiming at testing the diagnostic value of volatile organic compounds in gastrointestinal cancers, discussing in detail some of the recent advancements in automated sampling techniques. Finally, we propose some directions in which sample collection and processing can improve for VOC analysis to be popularized in clinical settings.

There is a significant need to develop new environmentally friendly, extraction-free sample collection mediums that can effectively preserve and protect genetic material for point-of-care and/or self-collection, home-collection, and mail-back testing. Systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) was used to create anti-ribonuclease (RNase) deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) aptamers against purified RNase A conjugated to paramagnetic carboxylated beads. Following eight rounds of SELEX carried out under various stringency conditions, e.g., selection using Xtract-Free™ (XF) specimen collection medium and elevated ambient temperature of 28 °C, a panel of five aptamers was chosen following bioinformatic analysis using next-generation sequencing. The efficacy of aptamer inactivation of RNase was assessed by monitoring ribonucleic acid (RNA) integrity via fluorometric and real-time RT-PCR analysis. Inclusion of aptamers in reaction incubations resulted in an 8800- to 11,200-fold reduction in RNase activity, i.e., digestion of viral RNA compared to control. Thus, anti-RNase aptamers integrated into XF collection medium as well as other commercial reagents and kits have great potential for ensuring quality intact RNA for subsequent genomic analyses.

Abstract Background and objectives Oral fluid (OF) is an easy-to-collect, inexpensive, fast and non-invasive sample to characterize health and welfare status of the pig. However, further standardisation of the collection methods is needed in order to use it regularly in veterinary practice. Cotton ropes are routinely used to collect OF for pathogen detection but they may not be optimal for biomarker analysis due to sample contamination. This study compared two methods (cotton ropes and sponges) to collect porcine OF for biomarker analysis. A panel of 11 biomarkers of stress, inflammation, sepsis, immunity, redox status and general homeostasis was studied. Materials and methods Eighteen farrow-to-finish pig farms were included in the study. In each farm, three (for sponges) or four pens of pigs (for ropes) were sampled at four age categories: the week after weaning (5 weeks), before (11–12 weeks) and after (12–13 weeks) moving to finisher facility and the week before slaughter (22–25 weeks). In total, 288 OF samples were collected with cotton ropes and 216 with sponges and analysed for the biomarkers: cortisol, alpha-amylase, oxytocin (stress), haptoglobin (inflammation), procalcitonin (sepsis), adenosine deaminase, immunoglobulin G (immune system), ferric reducing antioxidant power (redox status), and creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase and total protein (general homeostasis). Samples were also scored visually for dirtiness using a score from 1 (clean) to 5 (very dirty). Results Rope-collected OF had higher levels of dirtiness (3.7 ± 0.04) compared to sponge-collected OF (2.7 ± 0.15) and had higher values than sponges for cortisol, procalcitonin, oxytocin, haptoglobin, total protein, lactate dehydrogenase and ferric reducing antioxidant power. All biomarkers decreased in value with age. Immunoglobulin G did not perform well for any of the two collection methods. Discussion and conclusion The results showed a clear effect of age on the biomarkers in OF collected with both, sponges or ropes. Sponges provided a cleaner sample than cotton ropes for biomarker analysis. Both methods are easy to apply under the commercial conditions in pig farms although sponges may take more time in early weaner stages. From a practical point of view, sampling with sponges achieved the best combination of reduced sampling time and low contamination.

Palms are an integral part of the urban landscape in Florida. Ganoderma butt rot of palms, a disease caused by the wood-decaying white-rot fungus Ganoderma zonatum, is one of the major biotic concerns for the landscape industry. The lethal disease is prevalent across palm-growing regions in the US, and all palm species are believed to be susceptible to this fungus. It may take six months to a year for the diseased palm to die once the initial symptoms appear. But with the availability of a disease diagnostic assay, this fungal pathogen can be detected using saw dust samples collected from declining palms, several months before symptoms appear. Collect good quality samples by following these steps and understanding the caveats associated with each step.

ABSTRACT Technical bias is a pressing issue in microbiome research, and variability can be introduced at any stage from sample collection to figure generation. In this study, we aim to reduce biases in studying the human vaginal microbiome by examining the impact of sample storage buffer and multiple swabbing events using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing data generated from vaginal swabs. We show that AssayAssure Genelock, a clinically relevant preservative for urine samples, is effective in preserving vaginal samples for microbiome studies. When comparing Genelock to 95% (vol/vol) ethanol and no preservative (air only), host variability explained more variance in both weighted and unweighted UniFrac measurements than the preservation method. We further examined the impact of three successive self-swabbing events, as the relatively low biomass nature of vaginal samples can inherently introduce bias. It is important to know if taking multiple swabs can provide replicable results and thus allow for additional technical replicates and an increased sample size. We found that up to three swabbing events do not introduce bias when examining the presence or absence of taxa but can explain 3% of the variability in the amount of taxa calculated. A study with more participants is warranted to provide further validation of these findings, but in producing this pilot study, we aim to continue laying the groundwork so that universally standardized and accessible studies can be created. IMPORTANCE The composition of the human vaginal microbiome has been linked to a variety of medical conditions including yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, and sexually transmitted infection. The vaginal microbiome is becoming increasingly acknowledged as a key factor in personal health, and it is essential to establish methods to collect and process accurate samples with self-collection techniques to allow large, population-based studies. In this study, we investigate if using AssayAssure Genelock, a nucleic acid preservative, introduces microbial biases in self-collected vaginal samples. To our knowledge, we also contribute some of the first evidence regarding the impacts of multiple swabs taken at one time point. Vaginal samples have relatively low biomass, so the ability to collect multiple swabs from a unique participant at a single time would greatly improve the replicability and data available for future studies. This will hopefully lay the groundwork to gain a more complete and accurate understanding of the vaginal microbiome.

Due to enhanced properties at the nanoscale, nanomaterials (NMs) have been incorporated into foods, food additives, and food packaging materials. Knowledge gaps related to (but not limited to) fate, transport, bioaccumulation, and toxicity of nanomaterials have led to an expedient need to expand research efforts in the food research field. While classical techniques can provide information on dilute suspensions, these techniques sample a low throughput of nanoparticles (NPs) in the suspension and are limited in the range of the measurement metrics so orthogonal techniques must be used in tandem to fill in measurement gaps. New and innovative characterization techniques have been developed and optimized for employment in food nano-characterization. Single particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, a high-throughput nanoparticle characterization technique capable of providing vital measurands of NP-containing samples such as size distribution, number concentration, and NP evolution has been employed as a characterization technique in food research since its inception. Here, we offer a short, critical review highlighting existing studies that employ spICP-MS in food research with a particular focus on method validation and trends in sample preparation and spICP-MS methodology. Importantly, we identify and address areas in research as well as offer insights into yet to be addressed knowledge gaps in methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The rapid detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is vital for patient care. The LumiraDx™ SARS-CoV-2 RNA Star Complete (RSC) is an Emergency Use Authorization-recognized molecular test using nasal/nasopharyngeal swabs immersed in a viral/universal transport medium (VTM/UTM). However, there is a critical need for an alternative medium for point-of-care testing (POCT). This study aimed to investigate Xtract-Free (XF), a novel collection medium for transport and direct (extraction-free) use with nucleic acid tests. Methods: Using serially diluted SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA (vRNA) in a routine UTM and XF, a limit of detection (LOD) was established via an RSC test and a quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR). Additionally, the results obtained from a panel of 108 clinical "car-side" nasal swabs collected in XF during the coronavirus pandemic and assessed using the "gold-standard" RT-qPCR assay were compared to Lumira's RSC assay. Results: The average replicate RT-qPCR cycle threshold (CT) values for vRNA in XF and UTM were observed to be equivalent. An LOD for which five out of five replicates were detected using XF or VTM was approximately 2000 copies/mL. The nasal swabs collected in XF exhibited 93.9% positive percent agreement (sensitivity) and 100% negative percent agreement (specificity) compared to the RT-qPCR. Three specimens tested positive via an RT-qPCR were negative when tested via RSC; however, all three samples had CT values ≥ 36.4. Conclusions: XF is equivalent to VTM/UTM and is compatible for use with the RSC test. Furthermore, XF can be used directly with RT-qPCRs and rapid antigen testing without the requirement for separate nucleic acid extraction (an extraction-free process), making it ideal for cost-effective high-throughput and decentralized respiratory testing. Impact Statement: This study is the first to evaluate LumiraDx's SARS-CoV-2 RNA Star Complete assay in concert with Xtract-Free (XF), a novel collection medium containing a proprietary RNase-inactivating technology for the rapid, "extraction-free" detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA from clinical nasal swabs. Specimens collected in XF combined with rapid LumiraDx detection provide a safe and sensitive alternative to VTM/UTM, and Molecular Transport medium (MTM) for high throughput, "extraction-free" molecular detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: Oral fluid (OF) is an easy-to-collect, inexpensive, fast and non-invasive sample to characterize health and welfare status of the pig. However, further standardisation of the collection methods is needed in order to use it regularly in veterinary practice. Cotton ropes are routinely used to collect OF for pathogen detection but they may not be optimal for biomarker analysis due to sample contamination. This study compared two methods (cotton ropes and sponges) to collect porcine OF for biomarker analysis. A panel of 11 biomarkers of stress, inflammation, sepsis, immunity, redox status and general homeostasis was studied. Materials and methods: Eighteen farrow-to-finish pig farms were included in the study. In each farm, three (for sponges) or four pens of pigs (for ropes) were sampled at four age categories: the week after weaning (5 weeks), before (11–12 weeks) and after (12–13 weeks) moving to finisher facility and the week before slaughter (22–25 weeks). In total, 288 OF samples were collected with cotton ropes and 216 with sponges and analysed for the biomarkers: cortisol, alpha-amylase, oxytocin (stress), haptoglobin (inflammation), procalcitonin (sepsis), adenosine deaminase, immunoglobulin G (immune system), ferric reducing antioxidant power (redox status), and creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase and total protein (general homeostasis). Samples were also scored visually for dirtiness using a score from 1 (clean) to 5 (very dirty). Results: Rope-collected OF had higher levels of dirtiness (3.7 ± 0.04) compared to sponge-collected OF (2.7 ± 0.15) and had higher values than sponges for cortisol, procalcitonin, oxytocin, haptoglobin, total protein, lactate dehydrogenase and ferric reducing antioxidant power. All biomarkers decreased in value with age. Immunoglobulin G did not perform well for any of the two collection methods. Discussion and conclusion: The results showed a clear effect of age on the biomarkers in OF collected with both, sponges or ropes. Sponges provided a cleaner sample than cotton ropes for biomarker analysis. Both methods are easy to apply under the commercial conditions in pig farms although sponges may take more time in early weaner stages. From a practical point of view, sampling with sponges achieved the best combination of reduced sampling time and low contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute recommends rejecting hemolyzed samples for coagulation tests. Sysmex CS5100 analyzer using an optical method is commonly used in laboratories. The influence of hemolysis on coagulation test has rarely been studied when tested on Sysmex CS5100. Determining this influence is necessary. Methods: Freshly collected samples were artificially hemolyzed to simulate the hemolysis processes. Coagulation tests were conducted on a Sysmex CS5100 coagulation analyzer. Detection values before and after hemolysis were compared. Results: The results showed that after hemolysis detection, the prothrombin time (PT) statistically decreased, while the partial thromboplastin time (APTT) statistically increased. There were no significant differences in fibrinogen (Fg), thrombin time (TT), D-dimer (DD) or fibrinogen degradation products (FDPs). Antithrombin activity was elevated in hemolyzed samples. Conclusions: Although differences in PT and APTT were statistically significant, there was no need for rejection of hemolyzed samples due to insufficient clinical effects when tested on Sysmex CS5100 analyzer. Falsely elevated AT result may lead to misdiagnosis in patients with severe diseases, which should be carefully considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background During the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, a nucleic acid test is frequently conducted to identify positive cases. Compared with a hospital-based strategy, whole-community nucleic acid testing displays a unique advantage in rapid screening of a massive population. Yet a management plan to ensure ample and contamination-free sample collection is lacking. The objective of the current study was to establish an efficient operational mode of whole-community nucleic acid testing by management of a sample collection team and to provide a reference for joint prevention work to contain the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Methods The efficient operation of nucleic acid testing within the community was implemented by urgent setting up of sample collection teams, efficient allocation of medical supplies, optimization of management procedures and coordination among multiple working departments. Results A total of 21 585 nucleic acid samples were collected within 3 d, while no one was missed or experienced a cross infection. No falls, heatstroke, disputes or other adverse events occurred. Conclusions Under the emergency setting of nucleic acid testing of a large population, a management system with orderly organization, clear division of responsibilities and standardized operational procedures should be formulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is an important tool for acquiring digital images of the surface and collecting samples. Recently, it has been becoming an emerging research tool in sedimentology, changing the paradigm of sedimentology.However, UAV-based sedimentological research in China is still in its infancy. This paper reviews the recently important applications of UAVs in sedimentology, discusses critical technical backgrounds and existing problems involved, and summarizes as well as prospects for future applications of UAVs in sedimentology to provide references for subsequent research.Software and hardware requirements for applications of UAVs in sedimentology and typical case studies are reviewed from three aspects: 3D digital reconstruction of sedimentary outcrops, extraction of high-resolution sedimentary textures and structure features, and UAV-assisted sample collection. The use of UAV photogrammetry to construct digital outcrop models facilitates the observation of geometry, sedimentary facies, and facies associations for sedimentary outcrops from multiple spatial scales and perspectives. Combined with professional software for digital outcrop model interpretations, it allows for remote and efficient extractions of sedimentary textures and structure features such as grain size, cross-bedding, and bioglyph on large spatial scales. UAV-based digital outcrop models can also be applied to field practice teaching in sedimentology in the future. Also, UAVs can be modified to assist in collecting sediment samples like ice cores. The application of the UAV technology in sedimentological research has the advantages of low cost and high efficiency, ensuring the timeliness and continuity of data, and increasing safety in fieldwork. However, UAV technology also has disadvantages in data repeatability, point cloud processing, and image or model quality. Further improvements can be made in the future with the help of artificial intelligence and by developing standard specifications for UAV image acquisition and processing flow.

SARS-CoV-2 infection is mainly detected by multiplex real-time RT-PCR from upper respiratory specimens, which is considered the gold-standard technique for SARS-CoV-2 infection diagnosis. A nasopharyngeal (NP) swab represents the clinical sample of choice, but NP swabbing can be uncomfortable to the patients, especially for pediatric-age participants, requires trained healthcare personnel, and may generate an aerosol, increasing the intrinsic exposure risk of healthcare workers. The objective of this study was to compare paired NP and saliva samples (SS) collected from pediatric patients to evaluate whether the saliva collection procedure may be considered a valuable alternative to the classical NP swab (NPS) sampling in children. In this study, we describe a SARS-CoV-2 multiplex real-time RT-PCR protocol for SS, comparing the results with the paired NPS specimens from 256 pediatric patients (mean age 4.24 ± 4.40 years) admitted to the hospital emergency room of Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata (AOUI), Verona, and randomly enrolled between September 2020 and December 2020. The saliva sampling demonstrated consistent results when compared to NPS use. The SARS- CoV-2 genome was detected in 16 out of 256 (6.25%) NP samples, among which 13 (5.07%) were positive even when paired SS were analyzed. Moreover, SARS-CoV-2-negative NPS and SS were consistent, and the overall concordances between NPS and SS were detected in 253 out of 256 samples (98.83%).Our results suggest that saliva samples may be considered a valuable alternative to NPS for SARS-CoV-2 direct diagnosis with multiplex real-time RT-PCR in pediatric patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Handwritten documents may contain probative DNA, but most crime laboratories do not process this evidence. DNA recovery should not impair other evidence processing such as latent prints or indented writing. In this study, single fingermarks on paper were sampled with flocked swabs, cutting, and dry vacuuming. In addition, two extraction methods were compared for the sample type. DNA yields were low across all methods; however, this work confirms the ability to recover DNA from paper and the usefulness of the vacuum sampling method combined with the Chelex-Tween method. Stability of touch DNA deposits were compared over an 11-month period to better understand degradation that may occur over time. No significant difference in DNA recovery was observed, suggesting DNA deposits on paper are stable over an 11-month span. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reliability, robustness, and interlaboratory comparability of quantitative measurements is critical for clinical lipidomics studies. Lipids’ different ex vivo stability in blood bears the risk of misinterpretation of data. Clear recommendations for the process of blood sample collection are required. We studied by UHPLC-high resolution mass spectrometry, as part of the “Preanalytics interest group” of the International Lipidomics Society, the stability of 417 lipid species in EDTA whole blood after exposure to either 4°C, 21°C, or 30°C at six different time points (0.5 h–24 h) to cover common daily routine conditions in clinical settings. In total, >800 samples were analyzed. 325 and 288 robust lipid species resisted 24 h exposure of EDTA whole blood to 21°C or 30°C, respectively. Most significant instabilities were detected for FA, LPE, and LPC. Based on our data, we recommend cooling whole blood at once and permanent. Plasma should be separated within 4 h, unless the focus is solely on robust lipids. Lists are provided to check the ex vivo (in)stability of distinct lipids and potential biomarkers of interest in whole blood. To conclude, our results contribute to the international efforts towards reliable and comparable clinical lipidomics data paving the way to the proper diagnostic application of distinct lipid patterns or lipid profiles in the future.

The gut microbiota (GM) is a complex microbial community that exerts a considerable influence on human health, and its accurate characterisation has become essential to understanding its roles and implications in various medical conditions. Recent technological advances have paved the way for analytical methods that can uncover this complex microbial community. For these reasons, this review describes the methods used by research teams to discover and understanding the impact of GM in our environment. This paper explores the first phase of collecting and preserving samples, highlighting the impact of storage methods on sample stability and the reliability microbiological analyses. Then, it examines various methods for analysing GM. This diversity of approaches adapted to the specific objectives of each study, whether to characterise diversity using metagenomics, quantify specific micro-organisms using real-time PCR, or use techniques based on microbial targets. These methodologies promise new perspectives for understanding the physiological impact of the microbiota. Finally, concrete examples from Moroccan studies illustrate the application of these techniques to the characterisation of GM. By providing practical advice, this article guides researchers in the judicious choice of methods adapted to their research objectives and budgetary constraints, thereby contributing to the advancement of knowledge about the GM.

This paper introduced an innovative mode of whole-process non-contact single-person sample collection of nucleic acid testing. This aim of implementing this whole-process non-contact single-person sample collection mode is to reduce cross-infection, workload of sample collection and related health care costs. (本文介绍一种全程无接触式单人核酸检测样本采集创新模式, 旨在减轻减少交叉感染, 减轻医护人员核酸检测工作压力, 降低医疗成本。)

SARS-CoV-2 infection is mainly detected by multiplex real-time RT-PCR from upper respiratory specimens, which is considered the gold-standard technique for SARS-CoV-2 infection diagnosis. A nasopharyngeal (NP) swab represents the clinical sample of choice, but NP swabbing can be uncomfortable to the patients, especially for pediatric-age participants, requires trained healthcare personnel, and may generate an aerosol, increasing the intrinsic exposure risk of healthcare workers. The objective of this study was to compare paired NP and saliva samples (SS) collected from pediatric patients to evaluate whether the saliva collection procedure may be considered a valuable alternative to the classical NP swab (NPS) sampling in children. In this study, we describe a SARS-CoV-2 multiplex real-time RT-PCR protocol for SS, comparing the results with the paired NPS specimens from 256 pediatric patients (mean age 4.24 ± 4.40 years) admitted to the hospital emergency room of Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata (AOUI), Verona, and randomly enrolled between September 2020 and December 2020. The saliva sampling demonstrated consistent results when compared to NPS use. The SARS-CoV-2 genome was detected in 16 out of 256 (6.25%) NP samples, among which 13 (5.07%) were positive even when paired SS were analyzed. Moreover, SARS-CoV-2-negative NPS and SS were consistent, and the overall concordances between NPS and SS were detected in 253 out of 256 samples (98.83%). Our results suggest that saliva samples may be considered a valuable alternative to NPS for SARS-CoV-2 direct diagnosis with multiplex real-time RT-PCR in pediatric patients.

This work presents a mission concept for in-orbit particle collection for sampling and exploration missions towards Near-Earth asteroids. Ejecta is generated via a small kinetic impactor and two possible collection strategies are investigated: collecting the particle along the anti-solar direction, exploiting the dynamical features of the L 2 Lagrangian point or collecting them while the spacecraft orbits the asteroid and before they re-impact onto the asteroid surface. Combining the dynamics of the particles in the Circular Restricted Three-Body Problem perturbed by Solar Radiation Pressure with models for the ejecta generation, we identify possible target asteroids as a function of their physical properties, by evaluating the potential for particle collection. • Novel mission concept for in-orbit sample collection at asteroids. • Identification and analysis of two possible collection strategies. • Ranking of most suitable targets among Near-Earth Asteroids. • Preliminary mission risk assessment from particle impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volumetric absorptive microsampling (VAMS) is a recently developed sample collection method that enables single-drop blood collection in a minimally invasive manner. Blood biomolecules can then be extracted and processed for analysis using several analytical platforms. The integration of VAMS with conventional mass spectrometry (MS)-based metabolomics approaches is an attractive solution for human studies representing a less-invasive procedure compared to phlebotomy with the additional potential for remote sample collection. However, as we recently demonstrated, VAMS samples require long-term storage at −80 °C. This study investigated the stability of VAMS samples during short-term storage and compared the metabolome obtained from capillary blood collected from the fingertip to those of plasma and venous blood from 22 healthy volunteers. Our results suggest that the blood metabolome collected by VAMS samples is stable at room temperature only for up to 6 h requiring subsequent storage at −80 °C to avoid significant changes in the metabolome. We also demonstrated that capillary blood provides better coverage of the metabolome compared to plasma enabling the analysis of several intracellular metabolites presented in red blood cells. Finally, this work demonstrates that with the appropriate pre-analytical protocol capillary blood can be successfully used for untargeted metabolomics studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nasopharyngeal swab sample collection is the first-line testing method for diagnosing COVID-19 infection and other respiratory infections. Current information on how to properly perform nasopharyngeal swabbing in children is largely defective. This study aimed at collecting nostril to nasopharynx distance measurements on lateral skull radiographs of children and adolescents to design a nasopharyngeal swab meant to standardize and facilitate the sample collection procedure. A total of 323 cephalograms of 152 male and 171 female children aged 4–14 years taken for orthodontic reasons were selected. On each cephalogram, the shortest distance between the most anterosuperior point of the nostril contour and the nasopharynx outline was measured in mm parallel to the palatal plane. Descriptive statistics of the measurements were calculated for each age group. The lower limit of the 95% confidence intervals of the measurements was taken as a reference to design a swab shaft with marks that, at each age, delimitate a safety boundary for swab progression up to the posterior nasopharyngeal wall. The simplification of the procedure enabled by the newly designed nasopharyngeal swab is valuable to help healthcare providers perform specimen collection on children in a safe and effective way, perhaps under the less-than-ideal conditions possibly occurring in 'point-of-need' contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]