a device for measuring a total dose of biologically effective radiation is provided , in a specific embodiment , for measuring ultraviolet b radiation in the wavelength range of 290 - 400 nm . x - radiation and high - energy particle radiation are also measurable with this device . the device includes a sample of dna dried onto a plastic film , and the analysis method includes assaying for damage with the use of polymerase chain reaction and fluorescence techniques . the damage to the dna is correlatable with dosage via a comparison with standardized calibration data .