Abstract: A method and apparatus for combining two dissimilar road map databases of a given geographic region are provided. The road map database differ in degree of coverage or accuracy of coverage, or both, of the geographic region. Each database includes data defining a plurality of roads. A first set of loops is defined from roads represented in a first of the two road map databases. For each of the first set of loops, a corresponding loop is identified from roads represented in a second of the two road map databases, to define a second set of loops. Each loop of the second set of loops may include one or more links, and each link represents a portion of a road represented in the second road map database. A set of output loops corresponding to the first set of loops is generated to form an output road map database.

Abstract: The present invention is related to a durable foam tipped applicator that can absorb and retain fluids easily. The foam material used to make the applicator tip may be used in both water-based and solvent-based fluids. A wiper insert may be used to remove excess liquid from the applicator during removal from a reservoir of fluid. A lip at the mouth of the wiper insert can redirect excess fluid into the reservoir.

Abstract: Synthesis and applications of fluorescent dyes which are derivatives of benzo[c]xanthenes is described. The dyes exhibit pH dependent absorption and fluorescence spectra with pKas near the normal physiological range. Unlike fluorescein, the dyes exhibit emission of different characteristic wavelengths dependent on the pH of the medium. This permits several methods of measuring the pH of the medium in contact with the indicator including measuring two emissions with one excitation, selectively exiting the acid and base forms independently and measuring their emission at either single or dual wavelengths, or measuring the characteristic pH dependent absorption or fluorescence excitation spectral. Methods are presented for making the indicators permeant to cell membranes for the measurement of intracellular pH.

Abstract: Disclosed is a shaving apparatus which utilizes a continuous water supply, and comprises a shaver, a valve means connected to a water supply means, a flexible tubing connecting the valve means to the shaver and a swivel attachment of the tubing and the shaver handle. The shaver is provided with inner passageways and orifices in the shaver head for transporting and dispersing water from the shaver to the surface to be shaved and across the shaving edge.