> Although the above-referenced indicators are clas sified as solvatochromic, it should be understood that the present invention is not necessarily limited to a

> Although the above-referenced indicators are clas sified as solvatochromic, it should be understood that the present invention is not necessarily limited to any particular mechanism for the color change of the indicator. Even when a solvatochromic indicator is employed, other mechanisms may actually be wholly or partially responsible for the color change of the indicator. For example, acid-base or proton donation reactions between the indicator and microbe may result in the color change. As an example, highly organized acid moieties on bacteria cell walls may protonate certain indicators, resulting in a loss of color. Patents are difficult to defend in that it has to specifically mention the new idea that you are trying to patent and not just refer to the general idea. However the statement above might be sufficiently close? On the other hand, I just noticed its status as "Abandoned."