Abstract: The present invention relates to a vial device for storing a specimen which containing exfoliative cells of a human body and for being used in smearing the exfoliative cells. More specifically, the present invention relates to a technology, which may be used with an exfoliative cell processing device for smearing exfoliative cells, for moving manually or automatically in the exfoliative cell processing device with containing the exfoliative cells so as to provide a part of the exfoliative cells to a slide of the exfoliative cell processing device. The present invention has an advantage in that, due to a recess and a latching rib in the opening cap, the opening cap may be automatically separated from the container member without user operation through a rotating member of the exfoliative cell processing device.

Abstract: The present invention includes a shell, a light emitter, a beam splitter, a convergent lens, an optical filter, a collimation unit, a discrete light detection unit, and a processing unit. The shell includes a sample well to contain a sample. The light emitter generates a detection beam towards the beam splitter, the detection beam is reflected by the beam splitter before being converged by the convergent lens onto the sample, and a Raman scattered beam is scattered from the sample. The Raman scattered beam respectively passes through the convergent lens, the beam splitter, the optical filter, and the collimation unit, allowing the collimation unit to collimate the Raman scattered beam into a collimated beam. The discrete light detection unit generates multiple light intensity signals according to the collimated beam received, and the processing unit generates a detection result according to the light intensity signals to help detect toxins.

Abstract: Described herein are methods and apparatus for rapid detection of microorganisms in biological samples (e.g. blood) for analysis to determine the presence or absence of infectious microorganisms in the samples. The apparatus includes a cartridge with a lid and a tray, a mechanism for isolating a bulk sample into multiple smaller samples, and a sensor disposed on the tray to determine the presence or absence of microorganisms. The cartridge lid includes projections that, in a first position, allow for sample to distribute evenly in the cartridge tray and, in a second position, isolate the sample into multiple smaller volume samples. The apparatus and method shorten the time-to-detection of a microorganism in a sample and reduce the steps required from sample collection to microorganism detection.

Abstract: An apparatus, method and kit includes one or more use protocol indicators having a color changeable dye, the dye being translucent or having a first color upon immediate exposure to an environment and for a defined time thereafter and the dye changing color after exposure to the environment for the defined time. A dual environment indicator includes a first indicator color changeable dye being translucent or having a first color upon immediate exposure to a first environment and changing color after exposure to a second environment and a second indicator color changeable dye being translucent or having a first color upon immediate exposure to the second environment and for a defined time thereafter and changing color after exposure to the second environment for the defined time. A time exposure indicator comprises at least one color changeable dye disposed to change color in a sequential manner.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a monoazo-based dye for acid detection, which changes color upon addition of or exposure to acid and, more specifically, to a dye which changes color within a few seconds upon exposure to a trace amount of a strong acidic material, and a fiber product using the same. The monoazo-based dye for acid detection according to the present invention has an effect of reacting with a trace amount of strong acid to change color, and returning to the original color when the acid is removed. Also, a fiber dyed with the dye of the present invention exhibits high color fastness and thus is not discolored and faded by laundering or sunlight.

Abstract: A system and method for quantification of Escherichia Coli bacteria in water is disclosed. In an embodiment, a region of interest (ROI) is obtained from an image of the water. For example, the ROI includes a plurality of pixels in the image of water contaminated with Escherichia Coli bacteria. Further, a plurality of red pixels are identified from the ROI based on a value of the plurality of pixels in the ROI and a threshold value. Furthermore, total redness of the plurality of red pixels in the ROI is calculated based on intensity of plurality of red pixels. In addition, a redness factor indicative of a degree of redness of the ROI is computed based on the calculated total redness. Quantification of the Escherichia Coli bacteria is then estimated based on the computed redness factor.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are devices and methods for determining the pH of fluid. Example devices include a device comprising a surface configured to contact the fluid and a pH indicator covalently bound thereto, wherein the pH indicator has a first color prior to contact with the fluid and changes color as a function of the pH of the fluid.

Abstract: An apparatus, method and kit includes one or more use protocol indicators having a color changeable dye, the dye being translucent or having a first color upon immediate exposure to an environment and for a defined time thereafter and the dye changing color after exposure to the environment for the defined time. A dual environment indicator includes a first indicator color changeable dye being translucent or having a first color upon immediate exposure to a first environment and changing color after exposure to a second environment and a second indicator color changeable dye being translucent or having a first color upon immediate exposure to the second environment and for a defined time thereafter and changing color after exposure to the second environment for the defined time. A time exposure indicator comprises at least one color changeable dye disposed to change color in a sequential manner.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming a patterned graphene layer on a substrate. One such method includes forming at least one patterned structure on a substrate; applying a layer of graphene on top of the at least one patterned structure on the substrate; heating the layer of graphene on top of the at least one patterned structure to remove one or more graphene regions proximate to the at least one patterned structure; and removing the at least one patterned structure to produce a patterned graphene layer on the substrate, wherein the patterned graphene layer on the substrate provides carrier mobility for electronic devices.

Abstract: A surface plasmon-field enhanced fluorescence measurement device may be provided to accurately detect a specific substance even in the case in which a well member is used and achieving a simpler structure and a lower manufacturing cost, and a fluorescence detection method using the surface plasmon-field enhanced fluorescence measurement device.

Abstract: The present invention provides for metallic nanostructures or nanoburgers comprising a dielectric layer positioned between metallic layers and their use in metal enhanced emissions systems to enhance emissions from fluorophores, including intrinsic and extrinsic; luminophores; bioluminescent species and/or chemiluminescent species. The multilayer nanoburgers exhibit several distinctive properties including significantly enhanced intensity of emissions, decreased lifetime and increased photostability by simply varying the thickness of the dielectric layer while maintaining a constant thickness of the two metallic layers on opposite sides of the dielectric layer.

Abstract: A clamping insert for cell culture having a lower support with a hollow member engagable in a well of a microplate, the hollow member being open at both ends and including a support surface at one end, and first tightening elements. The clamping insert further having an inner holder sized to be fitted inside the hollow member, and second tightening elements arranged to cooperate with the first tightening elements of the hollow member to tighten reversibly between the inner holder and the support surface of the lower support a porous substrate. The inner holder further including an open channel keeping free the porous substrate. Retaining elements intended to cooperate with the well of the microplate are provided to allow the clamping insert to be suspended in the well, and sealing elements are provided to hermetically seal the contact area between the clamping insert and the porous substrate.

Abstract: A glass pipette such as an electrode for electrophysiological recording is coated with quantum dots. This greatly aids the ability to observe the glass pipette, particular in tissue as the quantum dots provide an excellent performance under two-photon illumination used to visualize objects at depths of hundreds of microns.

Abstract: A system for measuring analyte concentrations has porous-walled nanocontainers containing multiple magnetic nanoparticles, the magnetic nanoparticles coated with a selective binder that is analyte-responsive and binds a the analyte, an indicator substance releasable from the selective binder by the analyte, or an indicator substance cleavable by the analyte, apparatus for exposing the nanocontainers to a fluid potentially containing the analyte, and magnetic spectroscopy of Brownian motion sensing apparatus for detecting agglutination of the nanoparticles or binding of analyte to the nanoparticles.

Abstract: A three-dimensional cell culture system for an imaging system to observe a cell image includes at least two cell culture layers formed by a solution having a photo-polymerizable monomer, a bio-molecule, an acoustic scattering medium solution and a cell culture medium. After placing a cell into the two cell culture layers, the two cell culture layers are laminated to form a three-dimensional culture laminating layer for culturing the cell. After forming the three-dimensional culture laminating layer, at least one cell-locating layer having a polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) solution, the acoustic scattering medium solution, a plurality of photoacoustic markers and the cell culture medium is positioned into the three-dimensional culture laminating layer so as to form the three-dimensional cell culture system. The imaging system is constructed according to a theory selected from one of optics, acoustics, optoacoutics and acousto-optics.

Abstract: A two step lateral flow assay method for identifying IgE antibodies in a sample comprises applying a sample to a sample port of a device, wherein the device is adapted to deliver the sample to a lateral flow matrix having a plurality of IgE antigen species immobilized at respective positions at a first location; allowing the sample to travel along the lateral flow matrix through the immobilized plurality of IgE antigen species to a second location downstream of the first location; and, after a predetermined period of time, applying liquid buffer to the lateral flow matrix to mobilize labeled reagent which is adapted to bind anti-IgE antibody and which is dried on the lateral flow matrix at a location upstream of the sample port delivery of the sample to the lateral flow matrix, and allowing labeled reagent mobilized by the liquid buffer to travel along the lateral flow matrix through the immobilized plurality of IgE antigen species and bind with any IgE antibody bound to the immobilized IgE antigen species, a

Abstract: A specimen analyzing method and a specimen analyzing apparatus capable of measuring interference substances before analyzing a specimen. The method comprises a step for sucking the specimen stored in a specimen container (150) and sampling it in a first container (153), a step for optically measuring the specimen in the first container, a step for sampling the specimen in a second container (154) and preparing a specimen for measurement by mixing the specimen with a reagent in the second container, and a step for analyzing the specimen for measurement according to the results of the optical measurement of the specimen.

Abstract: A method may involve forming one or more photoresist layers over a sensor located on a structure, such that the sensor is covered by the one or more photoresist layers. The sensor is configured to detect an analyte. The method may involve forming a first polymer layer. Further, the method may involve positioning the structure on the first polymer layer. Still further, the method may involve forming a second polymer layer over the first polymer layer and the structure, such that the structure is fully enclosed by the first polymer layer, the second polymer layer, and the one or more photoresist layers. The method may also involve removing the one or more photoresist layers to form a channel through the second polymer layer, wherein the sensor is configured to receive the analyte via the channel.

Abstract: A fluorescence-assisted counting apparatus for quantitative and/or qualitative assessments of a population of fluorescently stained particles in a specimen device retaining fluorescently stained particles, wherein the apparatus includes a detector module and a light source. The detector module includes a lens, a first optical filter and a detector, wherein the detector detects a fluorescence response. The lens includes a field of view taking in at least a portion of the fluorescently stained particles within the specimen device. The light source, further including a second optical filter, shines light in a light path that encompasses at least a portion of the particles.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a device, such as a FET sensing cell, which includes a first dielectric layer over a substrate, an active layer over the first dielectric layer, a source region in the active layer, a drain region in the active layer, a channel region in the active layer situated between the source region and the drain region, a sensing film over the channel region, a second dielectric layer over the active layer, wherein an opening is formed in the second dielectric layer and the sensing film is located within the opening, a first electrode located within the second dielectric layer and a fluidic gate region located over the second dielectric layer and extending into the opening. The present disclosure also provides a method for improving the sensitivity of a device by adjusting a sensing value.

Abstract: A portable system for real time detection of the presence of an infectious agent in a biological sample employs a reagent which detects the presence of a specific infectious agent in the sample, and emits a detectable signal when the reagent reacts with the sample and detects the presence of the infectious agent. A test cartridge has a reaction chamber for receiving the sample and the reagent. The reaction chamber has a predetermined internal geometry and at least one inner surface. Introducing the sample and the reagent into the test cartridge mixes the sample and the reagent. A testing unit receives the test cartridge, and includes a sensor for detecting an emitted detectable signal. The detection of the emitted detectable signal is indicative of the presence of the infectious agent in the sample.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed for producing a bioweapon-sensitive fibrous-network product, wherein the subject products exhibit a color change in response to exposure to a biological agent (or portion thereof) as used in a biological weapon. Also disclosed are fibrous-network products that contain units of biopolymeric material that impart a color change to the products in response to exposure to a biological agent (or portion thereof) as used in a biological weapon.

Abstract: An improved monocyte activation test is described that is better able to detect non-endotoxin pyrogens in medical products, in which a sample is incubated with a monocyte-containing reagent in an assay system comprising at least one surface comprising polypropylene. The invention also concerns assay systems for use in these tests that include at least one microtiter well having at least one interior surface comprising polypropylene and having a shape such that monocyte-containing reagent is concentrated in the well to provide greater cell to cell contact. The invention also relates to a diagnostic kit that can be used to test for the presence of non-endotoxin pyrogens in a sample.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to methods of detecting a neural injury biomarker in a biological sample. The method includes subjecting a biological sample to an assay disclosed that produces a measurable signal and detecting the measurable signal. The presence or absence of the measurable signal indicates the presence or absence of the neural injury biomarker in the sample, and thereby diagnosing a subject as having a neural injury. The disclosure further relates to methods of determining the state of a subject's neural injury. Further disclosed are systems and devices useful in carrying out the methods disclosed.

Abstract: Biosensor components (chips) are described based on direct biocoating processes that result in the tenacious and stable, noncovalent (believed to be chemisorptive) binding of anchor substances such as avidin(s) other proteins having specific binding partners or oligo- or poly-nucleotides onto any piezo-electrically active crystal surface. The resulting platform technology can be developed for a variety of biosensors with specific applications in biological assays. The table mono layers of the anchor substances forms reactive layers, ready to bind a capture reagent such as a biot-inylated antibody for capture and detection of analytes in biologic fluid samples.

Abstract: An apparatus may be configured to test a beverage, the apparatus may include but is not limited to, a beverage container that may be configured to hold a beverage, wherein the beverage container may include a material. An indicator may be chemically bonded to at least a portion of the material of the beverage container, wherein at least the portion of the material of the beverage container may include the indicator, wherein the indicator may be associated with at least part of a brand profile to identify a beverage brand's beverage, wherein the indicator may visibly react when the indicator is contacted with the beverage to show whether the beverage may be identified as the beverage brand's beverage, and wherein the visible reaction may be shown on at least the portion of the material of the beverage container via the indicator chemically bonded to at least the portion of the material of the beverage container.

Abstract: The invention comprises a device for detecting an analyte in a liquid sample deposited on a first portion of the device for transport to a second portion of the device that is in fluid contact with the first portion. In specific embodiments, the device is a pregnancy test device, which detects human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) as an indicator of pregnancy. Devices with improved clinical sensitivity are provided which are capable of detecting all clinically relevant hCG isoforms.

Abstract: A method for sampling a sulphur-containing solid product including supplying a gas flow comprising hydrogen sulphide, bringing the gas flow into contact with a solid reagent and reacting the solid reagent with the hydrogen sulphide contained in the gas flow, the reaction fixing the sulphur of the hydrogen sulphide by forming a sulphur-containing solid product which is different in color from the solid reagent, and recovering the sulphur-containing solid product. The invention also relates to a device suitable for the implementation of this method.

Abstract: One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a calorimeter for detecting the presence of a target analyte in a fluid sample. The calorimeter can include a substrate, a hermetically-sealed, thermally decoupled central reaction zone associated with the substrate, at least one droplet transport region, and detection electronics. The at least one droplet transport region can be associated with the substrate and configured to merge a reagent droplet with a sample droplet including the fluid sample to form a reaction droplet in the central reaction zone. The detection electronics can be in electrical and/or thermal communication with the central reaction zone and associated with the substrate. The calorimeter can be configured to detect a heat of reaction produced by a reaction event between the target analyte and a capture reagent upon formation of the reaction droplet.

Abstract: A method for generating and localizing a signal in a solid phase substrate detection system comprises applying a solution of target material to a substrate; binding the target with a specific affinity molecule having an attached label, the label comprising multiple signal precursor molecules; applying a carrier to the substrate, and treating the label to convert the signal precursor molecules to signal generating molecules. The carrier comprises solvent for the label and thickener for localizing the signal. The carrier may include developer that converts signal precursor molecules to signal generating molecules. Developer is not necessary if the signal precursor molecules are converted to signal generating molecules by e.g. temperature change, pH change, sonication, light irradiation, microwave heating. A test device for detecting target in a fluid sample, and a kit of parts for determining the presence of target in a fluid sample are also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for sensing an analyte in a fluid.

Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for dispersion of a labeling conjugate in a diagnostic assay, the result being a one-step assay. By eliminating a conjugate pad as in conventional lateral diagnostic devices, and forming a frazil ice pellicle (FIP), rehydration and flow are improved resulting in better reproducibility, improved sensitivity, and reduced costs of individual assay devices. The formation of a frazil ice film formed on a super cooled surface of a sample receiving means simplifies assay assembly. Lyophilization of the FIP improves the release of a sample/analyte/label matrix into a macro channel as in a direct flow assay, while at the same time allowing reagents to mix and flow, thereby optimizing the assay performance. The reagents of the conjugate and the formation of the FIP stabilize the conjugate proteins and provide extended shelf life to the diagnostic assay device.

Abstract: Provided herein is a fluid sensor, which includes a closed reaction unit in which reaction of a fluid sample takes place. The reaction unit is tapered on a side through which the fluid is injected so as to prevent generation of air bubbles during the injection of the fluid. Thus, the sensor has improved sensitivity.

Abstract: Provided is a microanalysis method and system using a Field Effect Transistor (FET). The microanalysis method includes a channel region having a receptor molecule fixed; forming a nano-particle conjugate in the channel region by supplying a sample for test and the nano-particle conjugate to the FET; growing a probe material on the channel region; and measuring a current flowing through the channel region, wherein the receptor molecule is a material that is selectively bonded to a target molecule in the sample for test.

Abstract: Described and illustrated herein are systems and exemplary methods of operating an analyte measurement system having a meter and a test strip. In one embodiment, the method may be achieved by applying a first test voltage between a reference electrode and a second working electrode and applying a second test voltage between the reference electrode and a first working electrode; measuring a first test current, a second test current, a third test current and a fourth test current at the second working electrode after a blood sample containing an analyte is applied to the test strip; measuring a fifth test current at the first working electrode; estimating a hematocrit-corrected analyte concentration from the first, second, third, fourth and fifth test currents; and annunciating the hematocrit-corrected analyte concentration.

Abstract: An assay system designed to detect a protein biomarker in urine that is diagnostic for interstitial cystitis (IC). The presence of a 9 amino acid glycopeptide, antiproliferative factor (APF), in urine is unique to patients with IC. Urine samples from patients who exhibit symptoms consistent with IC are added to the assay system. Binding of APF to the cytoskeletal associated protein 4 (CKAP4) is positive for the presence of APF in urine and diagnostic for IC. The diagnostic system is a significant and surprising advance in diagnosis of IC and has commercial applications relevant to women and men who suffer from symptoms consistent with IC.

Abstract: Provided are a multiple immunoassay apparatus on a chip in which a structure comprising multiple microfluidic channels is associated with a tissue sample, which allows immunohistochemical reactions to be conducted therein, to examine various markers specific for certain diseases, and a method for performing multiple immunoassays using the same. The multiple immunoassay apparatus comprises: at least one antibody-introducing unit through which at least one antibody is introduced into the apparatus; at least one reaction unit in which the antibody reacts with a sample in an immunohistochemical pattern; and at least one fluid outlet through which a fluid including the antibody is discharged outside the apparatus.

Abstract: The bioassay process for the determination of alterations in neuronal connectivity and/or morphology comprises the operations of:—identifying the critical distance corresponding to which a pair of spaced single neuronal cells, subjected to the assay, is still able to form reciprocally interconnecting neuritic extensions, after a predetermined incubation period under conditions which favour the formation of such neuritic extensions, wherein each of said single neuronal cells is adhered to a respective spot of a substance promoting the adhesion of said neuronal cells, said spots being deposited at a distance from one another onto a substrate inhibiting the adhesion of neuronal cells, and—comparing the critical distance identified with the critical distance determined, under the same conditions, for reference cells, wherein a decrease in said critical distance for the neuronal cells subjected to the assay, relative to the critical distance for the reference cells, is indicative of an alteration in the neuronal c

Abstract: The present invention concerns methods for detecting the presence of a micro-organism in a fluid, gaseous and solid samples, together with apparatus for use in same. The invention comprises the use of a plurality of hollow fibers to filter the fluid and the capture of the micro-organisms on the membrane by means of a specific binding pair.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are devices for detecting the presence of a target analyte in a fluid sample. The biosensor device can comprise at least a reaction chamber and a detection chamber. The device can comprise a amplifying mechanism such that one target analyte molecule present in the fluid sample can lead to generation/activation of multiple detection agent molecules, and therefore, an amplified signal. Also disclosed are the methods of manufacturing and using such a biosensor device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for specifically measuring sialylation of a biomolecule of interest without the interference of other biomolecules present in the sample.

Abstract: The invention is directed towards methods and compositions for identifying the amount of hydrofluoric acid in a buffered oxide etching composition. In buffered oxide etching compositions it is very difficult to measure the amount of hydrofluoric acid because it has varying equilibriums and it is toxic so it hard to handle and sample. When used to manufacture microchips however, incorrect amounts of hydrofluoric acid will ruin those chips. The invention utilizes a unique method of spectrographically measuring the hydrofluoric acid when in contact with added chromogenic agents to obtain exact measurements that are accurate, immediate, and safe.

Abstract: A device for quantitatively determining an analyte is provided to conspicuously improve the performance of the quantitative determination. This device is equipped with a flow channel, an analyte detecting unit for capturing and detecting the analyte, and a quantitative measurement unit for quantitatively determining the analyte, wherein a signal generated when the analyte detecting unit has detected the analyte is divided into a plurality of parts in the direction of the flow in the flow channel at the quantitative measurement unit for processing. Also provided are technologies including one for controlling the density of molecules attached to the surface of a solid. In these technologies, when molecules are attached to a substrate, the density of attached molecules is controlled, by having an electrolyte also present in a solution containing the molecules to adjust the screening effect by the electrolyte, and by taking into consideration the effective size of a molecule.

Abstract: A general methodology for the development of highly sensitive and selective sensors that can achieve portable, low-cost and quantitative detection of a broad range of targets using only a personal glucose meter (PGM) is disclosed. The method uses recognition molecules that are specific for a target agent, enzymes that can convert an enzyme substrate into glucose, and PGM. Also provided are sensors, which can include a solid support to which is attached a recognition molecule that permits detection of a target agent, wherein the recognition molecule specifically binds to the target agent in the presence of the target agent but not significantly to other agents as well as an enzyme that can catalyze the conversion of a substance into glucose, wherein the enzyme is attached directly or indirectly to the recognition molecule, and wherein in the presence of the target agent the enzyme can convert the substance into glucose. The disclosed sensors can be part of a lateral flow device.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are compositions including a nanosensor that is sensitive to an analyte such that the nanosensor emits a fluorescent signal upon detecting the analyte, and a catalytic agent that catalyzes a reaction in which a target substrate is converted into one or more products, such that at least one of the one or more products is the analyte. In addition, methods of using the nanosensor-catalytic agent compositions to detect a target substrate are disclosed.

Abstract: A mass sensor has a common RF input, a set of mass sensor cells, and a common hold input. Each of the mass sensor cells has a local input node coupled to the common RF input, a local output node, a mass-dependent RF filter that includes an electroacoustic resonator having receptors immobilized on a surface thereof, an RF detector, and a hold circuit having a local hold input. The RF filter, the RF detector and the hold circuit are connected in series between the local input node and the local output node. The common hold input is coupled to the local hold inputs of the hold circuits of at least a subset of the mass sensor cells.

Abstract: An optic light guide test sensor comprises a light guide, a reagent-coated membrane, and a mesh layer. The reagent-coated membrane and the mesh layer are attached to the light guide at an output end of the light guide. The light guide test sensor is adapted to be used to test the level of an analyte in a biological fluid sample when used with a readhead. A method of manufacturing the light guide test sensor involves providing a plurality of light guides, providing a strip of reagent-coated membrane, and providing a strip of mesh layer. The reagent-coated membrane and mesh layer are attached to the light guides by ultrasonic welding. The reagent-coated membrane and mesh layer may also be attached to the light guides by adhesive.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for fluid sample collection and analyte testing, including a sample receiving member and at least one membrane test strip, and optionally a sample retention member, fingerprint acquisition pad, and/or fluid collector. It also provides a fluid collection apparatus having an absorbent material, compression element, and closure element, and optionally a lid that allows the apparatus to be used in conjunction with a fluid container. Also provided are methods of collecting, testing, and retaining a fluid sample and verifying the identity of one or more individuals associated with the sample, such as the test subject, test administrator, and/or witnesses.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a biosensor comprising a hydrogel capable of immobilizing a physiologically active substance thereon, which can be produced conveniently by use of a safe material, and a method for producing the same. The present invention provides a method for producing a biosensor, which comprises bringing a polymer containing an activated carboxyl group into contact with a substrate surface coated with an organic layer having an amino group to thereby bind the polymer to the organic layer.

Abstract: The invention is directed towards methods and compositions for identifying the amount of ammonium acid in a buffered oxide etching composition. In buffered oxide etching compositions it is very difficult to measure the amount of ammonium acid because it has varying equilibriums and it is toxic so it hard to handle and sample. When used to manufacture microchips however, incorrect amounts of ammonium acid will ruin those chips. The invention utilizes a unique method of spectrographically measuring the ammonium acid when in contact with added chromogenic agents to obtain exact measurements that are accurate, immediate, and safe.