Table 6 Comparison of handling requirements for the different samplers tested in this study
From: Passive dust collectors for assessing airborne microbial material
Sampler | Acquiring material | Preparation for field-sampling and sampling | Sample pre-extraction: specificities and equipment | Concerns with regard to particle loading |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Petri dish | Purchase from general laboratory supply | Must ship securely so samplers do not break in transport | Swab to collect dust material from sampler; no sample pre-extraction so direct DNA extraction possible | Appears to perform well under low and moderate particle loading. Under high particle loading, dust collection may require several collection swabs |
TefTex | Purchase from manufacturer of industrial fabrics | Cutting material to desired sampler size and, if desired, place in holder; heat treatment to reduce background may be required for some biochemical determinations | Pre-extraction in buffer necessary (10+ mL); ideally sonicator for extraction | Requires no difference in treatment under different particle loads |
EDCs (various materials used as wipes) | Purchase from manufacturer or from stores that sell household cleaning supplies | Cutting material to desired sampler size and, if desired, place in holder; heat treatment to reduce background may be required for some biochemical determinations | Relatively large pre-extraction buffer volumes needed (10–50 mL); ideally stomacher for rigorous extraction | Requires no difference in treatment under different particle loads |