1. A pyrolysis-GC/MS approach was developed for rapid screening of sediment samples for the presence of microbial biomass.
2. Molecular fingerprints were identified to track microbial signals, with a detection limit of 106 cells/g.
3. The method was applied to marine sediments from different depths and organic carbon contents.
The article is generally reliable and trustworthy, as it provides a detailed description of the pyrolysis-GC/MS approach developed for rapid screening of sediment samples for the presence of microbial biomass. The authors provide clear evidence for their claims, such as molecular fingerprints used to track microbial signals, and the detection limit of 106 cells/g. Furthermore, they provide detailed information on how the method was applied to marine sediments from different depths and organic carbon contents.
However, there are some potential biases in the article that should be noted. For example, the authors do not explore any counterarguments or alternative approaches that could be used to detect microbial biomass in subseafloor sediment. Additionally, they do not discuss any possible risks associated with using this method or any potential limitations that may arise from its use. Finally, there is no mention of any promotional content or partiality in the article which could lead readers to believe that this is an unbiased and objective source of information on this topic.