IDENTIFICATION REQUESTED

IDENTIFICATION REQUESTED
Clifford E Carnicom
Apr 19 2001

Note biological chain structure between edge of a fiber
and adjacent matrix material. Approx. 2000x.

Additional biological components have been repeatedly identified within atmospheric samples collected through the process of electrostatic precipitation on April 18 and 19 2001. The precipitator was active approximately one hour in each case. Microscope slides subjected to precipitation were subsequently heat fixed. Methylene blue stain was applied for several minutes, the slide gently rinsed, and then examined under the microscope. The view at the bottom of this set of photographs represents a typical example of the frequently appearing matrix material of irregular shape at approximately 500x. Close examination of this matrix material reveals the frequent presence of clustered or chained groups of cells. The individual cells in this case are measuring at approximately 3- 3.5 microns. As a comparison, a human hair ranges from approximately 60 to 100 microns in thickness. Assistance with positive identification of this material and the replication of sampling methods remains as an open request. Cocci bacteria, including both streptococci (spherical and chainlike), staphylococci (spherical and clustered) and fungal spores are being considered within the identification process, although the question of size remains an issue. Apparently cocci bacteria commonly range between 0.5 and 5 microns, however, an average size is reported at approximately 0.5 – 1 micron. If this information is accurate, these samples would be at the higher end of the expected range if they are indeed cocci bacterial forms. Any assistance on this matter is appreciated. The matrix materials remain equally important to identify. The frequency, abundance and repetition of the materials observed within any single sample set appears to be highly unusual. The materials readily accept methylene blue stain after heat fixing. The materials shown here do not appear to be visible using the simple iodine stain procedure that has been applied earlier under separate tests. Size, spacial groupings and stain receptiveness indicate that the current materials are distinct and separate. Biological materials that satisfy the visual properties of erythrocytes were not apparent within this sampling. Additional identification methods will continue concomitant with the request for identification assistance.

Numerous small bodies, approximately 1-2 microns in diameter, stain dark blue within the matrix material. The matrix material itself appears to be at the sub-micron level or beneath the resolving power of the microscope being used.

The purpose of this presentation is to request assistance with the identification of the materials that are being shown. Information regarding the norms for bacterial type and amount within atmospheric samples is also of benefit. Professionals in microbiology are invited to participate in the process of identification to adequately address the questions and concerns that have resulted from the observations, testing and research that remain in progress.

Note biological cluster structure amidst surrounding matrix material.
Approx. 2000x