Abstract by Natalie Becar

Personal Infomation

Presenter's Name

Natalie Becar



Degree Level




Abstract Infomation


Physics and Astronomy

Faculty Advisor

Robert Davis


Comparison of fluorescence and culture methods to quantify bacteria in a rapid separation device for the more efficient diagnosis of sepsis


Sepsis is a serious and often fatal disease resulting from a severe immune response triggered by the presence of infectious bacteria or viruses in the bloodstream. Progression of the disease is relatively fast, so quick quantification and identification of the infectious agents is critical for the survival of the patient. Our lab has been experimenting with separation of bacteria from blood using modified nanomagnetic particles to magnetically capture the bacteria. In order to properly evaluate the success of our developing separation method it is imperative to be able to identify and quantify the bacteria before and after. Two methods employed by our lab for this identification and analysis of bacteria include fluorescence and culture. Each method has its advantages and drawbacks. We extensively analyze and describe each process and its viability as a potential detection method as we develop a rapid bacterial separation device to improve the sepsis diagnosis process.