Abstract: A spectroscopic method, preferably Raman scattering, is used to rapidly determine the general health or stress status of living plants and plant products, including agricultural crops, forests, and harvested fruits and vegetables. In the preferred embodiments, carotenoid levels are used to provide an indication of oxidative deterioration. Based upon the results of the analysis, further action may or may not be taken, for example, in terms of choosing, picking, harvesting or sorting the agricultural product in accordance with the carotenoid level. Concentration levels of an analyte substance can be determined relative to an external standard, to each other, or relative to another substance in the item being analyzed.

Abstract: A spectroscopic method, preferably Raman scattering, is used to rapidly determine the general health or stress status of living plants and plant products, including agricultural crops, forests, and harvested fruits and vegetables. In the preferred embodiments, carotenoid levels are used to provide an indication of oxidative deterioration. Based upon the results of the analysis, further action may or may not be taken, for example, in terms of choosing, picking, harvesting or sorting the agricultural product in accordance with the carotenoid level. Concentration levels of an analyte substance can be determined relative to an external standard, to each other, or relative to another substance in the item being analyzed.

Abstract: Utilizing a spray painting shield comprising a large, flat flexible masking blade attached to an elongated handle. Placing the front edge of the shield along a corner edge formed by a surface to be painted and an adjacent surface. Pushing said handle to flex said blade to about 40.degree.-80.degree. with respect to said edge and adjacent surface.

Abstract: A paint roller pan having two separate paint reservoirs integrally formed within the structure. One of the reservoirs is for receipt of a typical paint roller while the second reservoir is for receipt of a typical paint brush which is used to do touch-up work in conjunction with the use of the paint roller. The paint reservoir used for the paint brush also acts as a leg to support one end of the paint roller pan in order to maintain a portion of the bottom surface of the paint reservoir used for the paint roller at an inclined orientation with respect to a horizontal or flat surface.