Sample volume used for DTS panel
To determine the optimal volume needed for preparing of DTS, various
amounts (30, 40, 50, and 100 μL) of the serum were dispensed into the
bottom of transparent 2 mL screw-cap cryogenic vials. The tubes were
left open and allowed to dry at room temperature for 24 hours. The
following day, samples were inspected visually for confirmation of
desiccation and the tubes were capped. Rehydration of DTS samples was
performed by adding distilled water and incubation at room temperature
for 10-15 minutes. Then, specimens were mixed by gentle tapping without
vortexing for complete solubilization of dried serum.
Liquid samples of the same pooled serum were stored at
2-8oC overnight to perform comparative analysis of DTS
with the liquid samples.