Please select the most appropriate group for your protocol. Email support@onfocuslaboratories.com if you want to add a new category.
Note: To prepare a concentrated algae aliquot, place the entire measured subsample in a 50-ml centrifuge tube. Centrifuge for 20 min at 1000 g. Siphon off the supernatant and measure the volume of remaining subsample. Return the remaining subsample to its original vial. This fraction remains fraction “a.” If a more concentrated fraction is needed, subsample a larger amount and centrifuge in a similar manner.
All genetic research and testing starts with the collection of DNA samples. Blood samples are invasive to collect, as well as complex and costly to ship, store and process. Buccal swabs provide a low quality and quantity of DNA, typically resulting in failed samples and a requirement to recollect, incurring additional cost, effort and time.
This old-fashied ethanol precipatation protcol is extremely efficient because 1) the amount of resulting nested fragment set is at least 5 to 10 times more than obtained by Sephadex G-50 filtration and 2) the signal strength on the ABI 3700 is increased approximately 5 to 10 fold.
Collection of several different protocols for DNA extraction from difference sources:
Each ALGALTOXKIT F contains all the materials necessary to perform two growth inhibition tests with the freshwater microalgae Selenastrum capricornutum. Easy to follow instructions and detailed illustrations are provided in the kits for the conduct of range-finding and definitive tests. The test organisms are included in the kits in «algal beads» from which the microalgae can easily be set free on demand, in less than 30 min, to supply the live biota for the conduct of the assays. Note:
Web page showing good photos of various types of pollen, and explaining briefly collection and quick slide preparation.
Webpage shows beautiful images of results when using Rheinberg filters, as well some technical details of how Rheinberg filters work, and how to properly use them in your microscope. The site also offers custom sets for sale, and a How-To manual for sale.
How to use a microscope (written by Onfocus internal staff)
How to use TSView to take measurement for photomicrograph - written by Onfocus supporting staff.
Website devoted to tardigrades, and particularly a complete survey done for the state of NJ by author Michael W. Shaw. Scientific paper to be published soon.
A very thorough guide for preparing insects and mites specimen. Edited by M.E. Schauff, USDA Systematic Entomology Laboratory, USDA.
While not a forensics site, it is a good introduction to the fascinating topic of hair identification using the microscope. The hair from various animals is shown as it appears through the microscope, using various lighting techniques. Amusing anecdotes are told about the collection of hair specimens for animals both exotic, famous, and quite ordinary.
