Blood oxidative stress (BLOS) is a secondary host defense system responding normally to anaerobic wound infection and inadvertently to dietary ultra-exogenous sulfide formation (USF).

Blood oxidative stress (BLOS) is the presence of white blood cells and platelets that are generating high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). A mathematical model links the level of BLOS or BLOS# and plasma sulfide concentration. An increase in the BLOS# reduces the plasma sulfide concentration.

The primary cause of oxidative stress is ultra-exogenous sulfide formation (USF).

The inorganic sulfur content of the Western Diet is more than six times greater than the minimal daily requirement. The non-adsorbed organic and inorganic sulfur supports high levels of sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB) in the large intestine. Over time, the combination of elevated dietary inorganic sulfur and high levels of SRB in the gut increases the potential of ultra-exogenous sulfide formation (USF).

Capture antibody targeted fluorescence in situ hybridization (CAT-FISH): dual labeling allows for increased specificity in complex samples.

Pathogen detection using biosensors is commonly limited due to the need for sensitivity and specificity in detecting targets within mixed populations. These issues were addressed through development of a dual labeling method that allows for both liquid-phase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and capture antibody targeted detection (CAT-FISH). CAT-FISH was developed using Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Staphylococcus aureus as representative bacteria, and processing techniques were evaluated with regard to FISH intensities and antibody recognition.

Association of the genus Acinetobacter with the decomposition of a swine carcass and the isolation and characterization of a novel strain of Acinetobacter sp. P4.

Using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and a selective and differential medium, Acinetobacter numbers were enumerated over the time course of decomposition, from fresh to putrid/dry, of a swine carcass. In addition, Acinetobacter diversity and succession were also characterized. Acinetobacter bacterial counts were observed to be the lowest before exposure (undetectable) and increased to their highest during active decay then decreased and leveled during advanced decay through putrid/dry.

Removal of sediment and bacteria from water using green chemistry.

Although nearly all newly derived water purification methods have improved the water quality in developing countries, few have been accepted and maintained for long-term use. Field studies indicate that the most beneficial methods use indigenous resources, as they are both accessible and accepted by communities they help. In an effort to implement a material that will meet community needs, two fractions of mucilage gum were extracted from the Opuntia ficus-indica cactus and tested as flocculation agents against sediment and bacterial contamination.