Extraction of MS2 phage RNA from upper respiratory tract specimens by use of flat glass devices.

The isolation of pure nucleic acids from clinical samples is a crucial step in the molecular diagnosis of viral infections by nucleic acid testing (NAT). In this study, novel flat glass devices (cards) were demonstrated to support the rapid and efficient extraction of nucleic acids from upper respiratory tract specimens (nasal washes and swabs). The performance of the nucleic acid extraction cards was directly compared to an existing standardized and automated platform for viral extraction from these types of specimens.

Multiple pH measurement during storage may detect bacterially contaminated platelet concentrates.

Background: Bacterial contamination or platelet (PLT) metabolism can change the pH of stored PLT concentrates (PCs). Measurement of pH for quality control is currently done on a limited basis. An easy noninvasive method was developed to obtain sequential pH measurements over time, without risking contamination and/or consuming PCs.

Capture of genomic DNA on glass microscope slides.

It is well known that DNA strands bind to silica surfaces in the presence of high concentrations of chaotropic salts. We developed simple methods to evaluate binding and recovery of DNA on flat glass microscope slides and compared their properties with commercially available silica "spin columns". Surprisingly, genomic DNA was recovered efficiently from untreated glass slides.