[Histonet] Problems with Vectashield Hard Set

[Natalie MacLean]

We have been mounting mouse brain sections perfused with paraformaldehyde 
using Vectashield Hard Set.  It sometimes works beautifully but often, 
after storing in the dark at 4C as recommended for setting, the samples are 
ruined.  It appears as if they have been dessicated, whether or not this is 
the case, and the samples are completely unusuable.
Is this a unique experience?
Does anyone know why this is happening?
Are there other recommendations for hard set mounting medias?

Thanks so much.

Natalie MacLean
Department of Neurosciences
UCSD