Abstract: A portable sample play device, such as a player tracking card or other player-carried device, allows players or users of a gaming machine to view, and/or participate in, sample or preview play of a game. The portable sample play device can be a smart card that stores all necessary information itself, or a known magnetic stripe card that simply stores rudimentary information. Additionally, such a sample or preview can include many different modes of play. For instance, the gaming machine can display a preview of link progressive play, along with the progressive jackpot. It can also display the special bonus modes of various games, demonstrating to the player various special prizes than can be won. Such preview play can be interactive, allowing player participation, or passive, simply illustrating sample play without allowing user interaction. Preview play can also include full, nominal, zero, or other payouts if so desired.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a document filtering mechanism is provided. A document indexing mechanism is described. A first document is parsed into elements, and a deterministic pseudo-random score is calculated for at least some of the elements. A subset of the scores is selected based on the values of the scores. The subset of the scores is used as multiple indexes into a database of documents.

Abstract: A tennis net center strap with an integral measuring device for adjusting and maintaining the top of a tennis net at a selected height above a tennis court surface. The tennis net center strap is preferably made from two strips of material, one end of the first strip being connected to the first part of a quick release mechanism having a serrated slot therein for receiving the free end of the second strip. A fastener including a hook surface and a loop surface is located on the second strip, the hook and loop surfaces being lockably engageable after the second strip is threaded through the second part of the quick release mechanism and folded back on itself.

Abstract: Methods for improving speech and other functions of a tracheostomized patient are disclosed, together with an apparatus for carrying out the methods. The methods involve providing the patient with a tracheostomy valve that prevents airflow at all times except when the patient inhales. A way for doing so by positively biasing a flexible diaphragm against a valve seat is disclosed, together with a rivet structure for effecting such bias.