Abstract: Provided is a method of surveillance for hazardous materials, e.g., chemical, biological and radiological agents. The method comprises assaying a sample derived from materials collected from a sample domain for the presence of a chemical, biological, or radiological agent. The sample domain comprises at least one collection point from which the materials are collected in a pre-existing operation unrelated to surveillance.

Abstract: Dental caries is a polymicrobial infectious disease. Of the hundreds of bacteria present in the biofilms coating teeth, the Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) remain strongly linked to caries and dental disease. Streptococcus sanguinis (S. sanguinis) may serve a protective or antagonistic role against the cariogenic bacterium S. mutans. In the present invention, exemplary sets of species-specific PCR primers are provided for the identification and quantification of S. mutans and of S. sanguinis in clinical samples, including the simultaneous and sensitive analysis of both bacterial species. Assays, kits and methods for determining the presence and amount of S. mutans and/or S. sanguinis are provided. Oligonucleotide probes and primers for use in the assays, kits and methods are described. Assays and methods for determining and evaluating an individual's oral bacteria, risk for caries, and effects of prevention and treatment modalities, are provided.