Microsoft Word - Candidates for 2018 ERP of the Year

266

General comments about the method: ER 1

Clearly the isothermal feature of the method is very convenient. It would be nice if a few sentences were added outlining the biochemical/molecular basis of the method in general terms. Page 3, row 21-22, Remove shipped to collaborators as it is described at row 35 along with randomizing and blind coding. The method appears to be a very rapid method with a simple work flow that allows for the rapid detection of Listeria species. The method is very well described in the various documents , and the various steps of the sample preparation and MDA assay are exhaustively presented, including the ciritical steps. The method can be applied to a large variety of matrices covering different food categories and environmental surfaces. Enrichment media and procedures may vary according to the matrix, and therefore, users shall be clearly informed about the enrichment conditions for given matrices. Enrichment times usually mention a upper limit of incubation: what does happen if the user exceeds this upper value? This is a method very useful for the industry and it allows more short times for detection of Listeria than with culture methods . So, this is very useful for facilitate regional trade. No additional comments

ER 2

ER 3 ER 4

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ER 6

ER 7 ER 8

None.

Direct and easy to follow

Pros/Strengths of the Manuscript: ER 1

Generally a very clearly written manuscript.

ER 2 ER 3 ER 4 ER 5

Very well written.

Generally well written.

Manuscript is well written and the information flow is in an understandable order.

Exhaustive presentation of the various AOAC-PTM validations/extensions. Complete description of the sample preparation protocols. Efficient description of the collab study workflow and organization. Tables are very useful for summarizing the various enrichment protocols of the method, for presenting the results.

ER 6 ER 7 ER 8

The method has a high sensitivity and specificity.

Well written.

Well written with full details

03/12/2018