Abstract: Acetobacter strains are identified as stable under agitated culture conditions and exhibit substantially reduced gluconic and keto-gluconic acids production. A method and media for producing bacterial cellulose under agitated culture conditions resulting in sustained production over an average of 70 hours of at least 0.1 g/liter per hour are achieved. A unique reticulated cellulose product is produced using the methods and conditions claimed, and may be converted to of a sheet characterized by substantial resistance to densification and great tensile strength when produced by sheet forming means. Preferred Acetobacter strains are ATCC Nos. 53264, 53263 and 53524.

Abstract: A method and media for producing bacterial cellulose under agitated culture conditions resulting in sustained production over an average of 70 hours of at least 0.1 g/liter per hour are achieved. A unique reticulated cellulose product is produced using the methods and conditions claimed, and may be converted to of a sheet characterized by substantial resistance to densification and great tensile strength when produced by sheet forming means. Acetobacter strains are identified as stable under agitated culture conditions and exhibit substantially reduced gluconic and keto-gluconic acids production.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods for measuring endogenous heparin in a mammal at levels that were previously undetectable. The present invention further features methods for assessing the risk for and assessing the progression of atherosclerosis and methods for treating or inhibiting the progression of atherosclerosis. The invention also features methods for monitoring plasma heparin levels in subjects undergoing heparin treatment. Additionally, the present invention provides kits for assaying for heparin in biological samples.