Abstract: A health-related monitoring system and method provides visual feedback in the form of a computer-generated display of changes which will likely occur in a participant's body, if the person does, or does not, stay on a particular regime. A preferred method of assisting a person to achieve a desired body shape includes the steps of forming an initial image of the person (either in 2 or 3 dimensions) at an initial time; determining a progress level at intervals during a desired program, for example by imaging the person and comparing this image with the initial image so as to determine an image difference; and displaying a probable future image representative of a probable future body shape of the person based on the progress level of the person, for example as determined by the image difference and/or the body parameter difference, and displaying the ideal image to the person for comparison with the probable future image.

Abstract: A game unit and a method for teaching favorable behavioral patterns. The game unit includes a portfolio and an allowance system in cooperative engagement with the portfolio. The portfolio includes a plurality of tab cards and a score unit for receiving the tab cards. The allowance system includes an allowance element as a unit of exchange between what is earned by a player and a tangible reward outside of the play situation. Accordingly, a method for teaching favorable behavioral patterns includes incorporating the game unit with a routine of a player for a predetermined period, such as a daily routine. The player is credited via the tab cards throughout the predetermined period for favorable and unfavorable behavior while performing the routine. At the end of play, a value received from calculating the awarded tab cards is used to determine a value of an allowance element to be received.

Abstract: This invention provides a method and apparatus operable within an interactive computer device for presentation to the visual and auditory senses. The invention uses the creation and use of a custom hypnosis script to induce a state of hypnosis and make behavioral suggestions, Through questions presented, the user is queried for the user's preferences for hypnotic induction imagery and behavioral suggestion. The user enters the preferences, employing a keyboard, and/or a mouse, and/or other such device used to enter information. The program inserts the user responses into a preprogrammed textual material to compile a complete hypnosis script. A text-to-speech component of the program enables the user to then listen to the custom hypnosis script, and thereby experience a complete, custom hypnosis.

Abstract: A kit containing a complete exercise to evaluate the cooperative skills of individuals in a group environment. The kit includes a package for storage, multiple pieces in predetermined geometric configuration such that a predetermined number of the multiple pieces may be fitted together to form multiple predetermined polygons, multiple containers configured and dimensioned to contain the multiple pieces and instructions. Also, a process for facilitating the kit's use, which includes instructing participants to gather around a work surface, placing containers in the center of the participants having multiple pieces, distributing documents containing participants' rules, a task and a mission for the participants, distributing documents having observer instructions defining the observer's role and instructing the participants to commence the exercise. During assembly, the observer and facilitator shall make observations and enforce the rules.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method for documenting and communicating emergency and medical information specific to an individual, between the individual, care givers, and health care providers in an accurate, concise, and easy-to-use format to help insure more timely, safe, and effective health care and to avoid unnecessary delays and unsafe and incomplete medical care due to a lack of communication and information. Additionally, the information is documented at a single site, requires no specialized machinery to imprint or to read, is portable, inexpensive, and updated continuously by the individual user, care givers, and health care providers. The documentation and communication tool is to be taken by the individual to all physician visits, emergency room visits, hospital admissions, pharmacy visits, and is to be attached to the refrigerator inside the individual's home when not in use for easy access in emergency situations.

Abstract: An infant simulator capable of emulating the care requirements of an infant and recording the quality of care and responsiveness of a person caring for the infant simulator and/or signaling the person caring for the infant simulator when care is required. The infant simulator is capable of (i) sensing the environmental conditions of position, temperature and compression to which the infant simulator is subjected, and (ii) periodically demanding that the care-provider change the diaper, rock the infant, feeding the infant, or burp the infant simulator. The infant simulator is also programmed with the ancillary features of providing positive feedback when the proper interaction is provided in a timely fashion, an escalating demand signal when the proper interaction is not provided in a timely fashion, an identification system requiring the assigned care-provider to be present in order to satisfy a demand event, an unsatisfiable fussy period, and multiple behavior modes (i.e.

Abstract: An operating system configured to support cognitive capable environments is described. The system comprises a memory structure and an I/O process configured to update inputs and outputs. The operating system further includes a process to determine changes to symbols within the symbol space due to the stimulus and create STM images of the inputs. Additional processes are configured to pass stimulations between connecting symbols, measure temporal and spatial properties of images, filter the STM images based upon the properties, and propagate stimuli through hereditary structures. Further processes analyze propagated symbol groups of STM images for novel distinctions, create new symbols, connect novel stimuli together for symbol groupings, update existing symbols to include connections to the new symbols, and assign weights to the connections.

Abstract: A method of teaching an individual to program their mind to follow a voluntary personal behavior plan that helps to achieve a predetermined goal. Provides a set of rules (3) and techniques (7) that the individual uses to select and follow a personal behavior plan. Instructs the individual to make a promise (4, 5) to follow the selected behavior plan. A means of incentive (3, 6) is provided for the individual to keep the promise that helps them withstand considerable temptations to do otherwise. Whereby, when the individual makes the promise to follow the behavior plan, they can reach and maintain a state of mind in which they fully intend to follow the plan, which programs or alters activities of their mind and body to help succeed in following the plan and reach the predetermined goal (18).

Abstract: Method and product for increasing the awareness of one's self and for assessment and increasing decisiveness in conflict resolution in order to assist individuals who are conflicted by an intimate relationship. The method utilizes a plurality of individual statements which are each associated with one of four(4) different cells. The cells are positioned from lower to higher self awareness and decisiveness with conflict resolution being enhanced with statements falling within the cells of higher self awareness and decisiveness. Upon reviewing the individual statements and positioning such statements in appropriate locations on a template, the user becomes aware of his degree of decidedness and the quality of his decision and his level of awareness.

Abstract: The medication compliance organizer takes the form of a magnetized panel that may be conveniently mounted on the front of an appliance such as a refrigerator, or alternatively conventionally hung on a wall or other suitable surface. The organizer includes a plurality of day and time based containers for organizing and releasably holding the medications, typically four vials in vertical columns for each day of the week, one for each prescription time interval, i.e. morning, noon, evening and bedtime. The individual containers are sufficiently large to handle the varying medication formats from tablets, elixirs and patches. The organizer further includes an open tray for holding other medications and peripheral supplies, a reminder area for writing reminders regarding specific medications or activities, and medical forms for reference by the patient, care givers and health care personnel.

Abstract: An infant simulator capable of emulating the care requirements of an infant and recording the quality of care and responsiveness of a person caring for the infant simulator and/or signaling the person caring for the infant simulator when care is required. The infant simulator is capable of (i) sensing the environmental conditions of position, temperature and compression to which the infant simulator is subjected, and (ii) periodically demanding that the care-provider change the diaper, rock the infant, feeding the infant, or burp the infant simulator. The infant simulator is also programmed with the ancillary features of providing positive feedback when the proper interaction is provided in a timely fashion, an escalating demand signal when the proper interaction is not provided in a timely fashion, an identification system requiring the assigned care-provider to be present in order to satisfy a demand event, an unsatisfiable fussy period, and multiple behavior modes (i.e.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for modulating the control authority (i.e., control function) of a computer simulation or game input device (e.g., joystick, button control) using physiological information so as to affect the user's ability to impact or control the simulation or game with the input device. One aspect is to use the present invention, along with a computer simulation or game, to affect physiological state or physiological self-regulation according to some programmed criterion (e.g., increase, decrease, or maintain) in order to perform better at the game task. When the affected physiological state or physiological self-regulation is the target of self-regulation or biofeedback training, the simulation or game play reinforces therapeutic changes in the physiological signal(s).

Abstract: A circular device with two parts when put together where tasks and names or numbers are written upon them quickly easily and fairly divide duties.

Abstract: A preprinted food group triangle sheet having indicia representative of a plurality of food groups thereon is sized to be inserted between a first triangular member and a second triangle member. A plurality of apertures extend in complimentary alignment through both the first and second triangular members. The plurality of apertures are positioned in relation to each of the food groups preprinted on a food group triangle sheet. One or more additional apertures may be provided to record the taking of vitamins, minerals or medication. A punch is provided for manual insertion into an aperture selected from a plurality of apertures. A flexible strap may be used to secure the punch to the food group monitoring apparatus. The food triangle sheets may be releasably secured in a pad, or on a page of a book, to provide a lasting record of the quantity and selection of foods consumed according to food groups, over time.

Abstract: An infant simulator capable of emulating the care requirements of an infant and recording the quality of care and responsiveness of a person caring for the infant simulator and/or signaling the person caring for the infant simulator when care is required. The infant simulator is capable of (i) sensing the environmental conditions of position, temperature and compression to which the infant simulator is subjected, and (ii) periodically demanding that the care-provider change the diaper, rock the infant, feeding the infant, or burp the infant simulator. The infant simulator is also programmed with the ancillary features of providing positive feedback when the proper interaction is provided in a timely fashion, an escalating demand signal when the proper interaction is not provided in a timely fashion, an identification system requiring the assigned care-provider to be present in order to satisfy a demand event, an unsatisfiable fussy period, and multiple behavior modes (i.e.

Abstract: An educational desk mat, system and method for motivating and instructing students includes a merit indicator on a desk mat that is readily visible on a student's desk. The system includes a desk mat for each student and a behavior chart for a teacher. Individual merit indications from the desk mats are recorded on one or more behavior charts, permitting the teacher to track the merit indicators of each student over a school term or other time period. The education desk mat, system and method are also useful in home or home-schooling environments.

Abstract: A hand washing device and method encouraging hand washing includes a display panel, a message “WASH UP with Soap and Water. Get rid of germs in only 15 seconds.” and may have one of a variety of timing means to time the wash cycle or the user may use an ordinary clock. Germ illustrations indicate consequences. The panel is on personal and public use soap dispensers and return springs are used as the timing device.

Abstract: A series of yoga exercises to adjust brain functioning and a storyboarding process are used as tools in creative thinking sessions. When groups of people are assembled to execute a creative organizational planning session, some of the primary impedances to effective collaboration and decision making are participants' tensions, hidden conflicts, departmental rivalries, physical fatigue and mental distractions. Yoga exercise improves physical well being, relieves stress, energizes and calms the nervous system, increases mental focus, and balances the hemispheres of the brain for better decision making. Yoga exercise combined with storyboarding provides a method for improving group collaboration, communication and decision making.

Abstract: An infant simulator capable of emulating the care requirements of an infant and recording the quality of care and responsiveness of a person caring for the infant simulator and/or signaling the person caring for the infant simulator when care is required. The infant simulator is capable of (i) sensing the environmental conditions of position, temperature and compression to which the infant simulator is subjected, and (ii) periodically demanding that the care-provider change the diaper, rock the infant, feeding the infant, or burp the infant simulator. The infant simulator is also programmed with the ancillary features of providing positive feedback when the proper interaction is provided in a timely fashion, an escalating demand signal when the proper interaction is not provided in a timely fashion, an identification system requiring the assigned care-provider to be present in order to satisfy a demand event, an unsatisfiable fussy period, and multiple behavior modes (i.e.

Abstract: An infant simulator capable of emulating the care requirements of an infant and recording the quality of care and responsiveness of a person caring for the infant simulator and/or signaling the person caring for the infant simulator when care is required. The infant simulator is capable of (i) sensing the environmental conditions of position, temperature and compression to which the infant simulator is subjected, and (ii) periodically demanding that the care-provider change the diaper, rock the infant, feeding the infant, or burp the infant simulator. The infant simulator is also programmed with the ancillary features of providing positive feedback when the proper interaction is provided in a timely fashion, an escalating demand signal when the proper interaction is not provided in a timely fashion, an identification system requiring the assigned care-provider to be present in order to satisfy a demand event, an unsatisfiable fussy period, and multiple behavior modes (i.e.

Abstract: A game for designating chores is provided comprising a board structure having a front face from which markings can be erased. Defined areas of the face are divided into at least a chore region and a name region. Numbered chores are listed in the chore region. Game participant's names are associated with a particular chore by the random selection of game pieces. Each of the game pieces have a different chore number. Playing the game involves spinning a pointer on a spinning number card imprinted with chore numbers or rolling dice having cube surfaces that display chore numbers or randomly selecting one piece from a set of balls, chips, coins or pieces of paper which have been imprinted with chore numbers. The chore number on the selected piece is then assigned to the participant who selected it and that person must complete the chore within the prescribed time period. The board base may include a choice region within which are listed rewards.

Abstract: The invention comprises of a structural algorithm, processes, apparatuses and systems for evaluating, matching and fostering individuals' behavioral capabilities to the requirements for successful human performance in any role and situation. The invention uses a new algorithm to construct a profile of required ability levels underlying the performance of recognized successful individuals in specific situations. Other individuals are then evaluated only in terms of discrepancies between required ability levels and the levels indicated by their performance of indicators of attainment in each of the required dimensions of ability. Required abilities are selected for each comparison in seven linked types of behavior, each with its own method of measurement. As the measurement methods of the invention are used only to construct comparison gauges of a specific requirement and an individual attainment, there is no need for inferring absolute value or generalizable meaning to any ability measurement.

Abstract: A system providing for the encouragement of the recognition of beneficial acts (e. g., performance of various tasks, chores, good habits, etc.) includes a token holder, board or the like for the removable storage of a series of recognition tokens therein. Preferably, each person involved in the group (family household, etc.) has his/her own token holder and tokens. When a person performs some task, that person removes one of the tokens from his/her holder and places it at the location where the task was accomplished. The recipient or beneficiary of the task or chore later finds the token, and recognizes the efforts put forth by the: person leaving the token. The present invention may also include an identification marker for each participant, with the performer of the task placing the marker in a storage area of the board of the beneficiary of the task or other work performed.

Abstract: A biofeedback training method and apparatus to increase and reinforce the respiratory sinus arrhythmia as an outcome of a breath training technique, said apparatus comprising a physiological monitoring device that provides raw physiological data to a computer having a software program that receives and utilizes the heartbeat interbeat interval information supplied by the physiological sensors, calculates such intervals after every heartbeat, computes RSA parameters from the interbeat intervals, displays raw signal instantaneous heart rate values, calculates RSA parameters in the form of graphs, compares current values of the RSA training score with currently set threshold level to generate training feedback, provides continuous audiovisual feedback to the user to reward training attempts based on results of threshold comparisons, displays a breath pacer to induce an appropriate breathing pattern, recommended by selected breathing technique, saves interbeat intervals along with the RSA parameters into a built-

Abstract: A method for operating a computer to teach a student communication skills. First a goal is displayed to the student. Then the student is presented with a prompting scene that is related to the goal that was presented to him. In the prompting scene there is a first character that represents the student. Also, there is at least one second character that represents at least one person to whom the student needs to communicate. Also displayed is a plurality of sentences the student may select. At least one of the sentences will help the student achieve his goal and at least one of the sentences will not help the student achieve his goal. The student's selection is then received. The student is then presented with a response scene. The response scene is positive if the student's selection from the plurality of sentences is such that it will help the student achieve his goal.

Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for providing healthcare information, the apparatus comprising a processor for processing at least one of symptom information and condition information corresponding to a patient, in conjunction with at least one of healthcare information, healthcare theories, healthcare principles, and healthcare research, wherein the processor generates a diagnostic report, and further wherein the diagnostic report contains information regarding at least one of a diagnosis and a possible diagnosis for the at least one of symptom information and condition information.

Abstract: A virtual electronic pet is capable of performing a plurality of activities and capable of displaying a plurality of behaviors, at least one of the plurality of behaviors dependent upon performance of at lest one of the plurality of activities. An actual name is retrieved from a name database. A name signal, indicating a guessed name, is generated in response to the actions of a user. The actual name guessed name are compared to determine if the guessed name matches the actual name. At least one of the plurality of behaviors is displayed if the guessed name matches the actual name. Further guessing of the name is prohibited unit a time period expires.

Abstract: A method for behavior modification and memory enhancement utilizing a central processing unit, comprising compiling a symbolic profile of a subject participant, interpreting the subject participant's stored symbolic constructs, instructing the subject participant using virtual reality means, evaluating and recording physiological parameters of the participant and delivering symbolic containers to the participant; and delivering symbolic prescriptions to the subject participant for behavior modification and memory enhancement. The methodology allows for accessing and recognition of stored memory symbolic constructs by isolating symbolic quests embodied within multiple multimedia virtual reality events, and delivering the multimedia virtual reality events to a user by artificial intelligence and multi-media means, applying the symbolic constructs to the user.

Abstract: A method for improving the effectiveness of a child's toilet training regime utilizes a progress scale to evaluate the child's current level or stage of toilet training. Recommendations for improving the effectiveness of the child's training regime are divided into a plurality of unique groups corresponding to a plurality of stages of toilet training. The child's toilet training progress value, determined using the progress scale, is matched to a particular stage of training and the unique group of recommendations corresponding to the child's stage of training are selected. Methods for comparing the effectiveness of various toilet training regimes are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system and method for providing driver training and education particularly targeted towards teenage drivers. A system and method focus on six major areas that address both driving and lifestyle skills. The six major areas are i) lifestyle, ii) risk and benefit perception, iii) visual search, iv) speed adjustment, v) space management and vi) hazard recognition. The invention is directed to post licensing training and education. Content is embedded in a multi-faceted instructional framework using contemporary learning methods that work with teens using multi-media technologies and integrated and realistic subject matter utilizing three main components, namely workout sessions, computer based training (CBT) and parent-teen activity. The invented system and method encourages and enlists participation of the parents who are recognized as key agents in the development of safe driving practices. There is an ongoing assessment, which provides feedback for remediation.

Abstract: In a given environment where a user may work, play, or otherwise interact, such as the environment provided by a system comprising computer hardware and software, the present invention provides a method, computer program product, and system for teaching reinforcing concepts, principals, and other learned information without requiring user initiation of a learning sequence. Learning or reinforcement occurs by presenting “learning frames” in the environment automatically without requiring user initiation of the learning sequence. The user of the environment receives these intrusive or non-intrusive opportunities for learning while doing other tasks within the environment and may be interrupted from the task at hand and be required to respond to the presented learning frame or may simply have the opportunity for learning without requiring interruption of the task at hand according to the implementation of the present invention.

Abstract: A method and system for simulating a chronic disease condition comprises a compact, easy to use electronic device. A virtual pet device for providing at least one disease control parameter value and a general health status value for the virtual pet having a chronic medical condition includes: a microprocessor having a memory, a housing, an input unit external to the housing, and a display integral with the housing. The device may include a plurality of icons and a plurality of input buttons for inputting medical regimen-related data into the device. Graphics are provided for portraying a plurality of stages in the development and maturation of the virtual pet, as well as for displaying at least one disease control parameter. An audio unit provides sound synchronized to the graphics, and includes an alarm function related to scheduled medication administration.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for training the cognitive and memory systems in a subject is provided. The apparatus and method incorporates a number of different programs to be played by the subject. The programs artificially process selected portions of language elements, called phonemes, so they will be more easily distinguished by the subject, and gradually improves the subject's neurological processing and memory of the elements through repetitive stimulation. The programs continually monitor a subject's ability to distinguish the processed language elements, and adaptively configures the programs to challenge and reward the subject by altering the degree of processing. Through adaptive control and repetition of processed speech elements, and presentation of the speech elements in a creative fashion, a subject's cognitive processing of acoustic events common to speech, and memory of language constructs associated with speech elements are significantly improved.

Abstract: A method for behavior modification and memory enhancement utilizing a central processing unit, comprising compiling a symbolic profile of a subject participant, interpreting the subject participant's stored symbolic constructs, instructing the subject participant using virtual reality means, evaluating and recording physiological parameters of the participant and delivering symbolic containers to the participant; and delivering symbolic prescriptions to the subject participant for behavior modification and memory enhancement. The methodology allows for accessing and recognition of stored memory symbolic constructs by isolating symbolic quests embodied within multiple multimedia virtual reality events, and delivering the multimedia virtual reality events to a user by artificial intelligence and multi-media means, applying the symbolic constructs to the user.

Abstract: A doll simulating infant behavior includes sensors that detect care given to the doll, such as feeding, rocking, and neglect or abuse, and provide inputs to a microcontroller which operates on a behavioral state machine to produce infant behaviors that are expected of a human infant in response to similar care. The doll includes a head portion having an opening for a mouth having sensors in communication with a programmable microcontroller. The sensors include a feed-switch, motion sensors, and an impact sensor. LED eyes, a speaker, and a bi-colored blinking LED provide the doll's heartbeat and overall health. The microcontroller is programmed to receive inputs from the plurality of sensors and the feed-switch, and causes the doll to undergo a plurality of behavioral cycles such as sleeping, hunger, feeding, crying, wailing, colic and burping.

Abstract: A portable electronic device assists persons with learning disabilities and attention deficit disorders in performing daily living tasks. These tasks can include, e.g., making a bed, applying makeup, brushing teeth, getting dressed, and eating a meal, or hundreds of other tasks. The device is designed to allow users to develop a personal schedule of these tasks and special events. It alerts users at predetermined times to perform scheduled tasks and coaches and motivates the user in completing the tasks through text, audio and animation. The user is given a predetermined period of time to complete the task and rewarded with points if the task is completed on time. The device also records the user's performance of tasks and creates a task log of the user's performance over a given period of time.

Abstract: There is provided a test administration device having at least three substantially rigid planar members rotatively interconnected. At least two members have a retaining layer on one side containing cut-outs in the general shape of puzzle pieces. The concealed puzzles are successively revealed to the test subject in a random, predetermined arrangement on an integral work surface by selectively rotating the planar members. By vertically rotating the work surface, the pieces of a test puzzle are deposited on the interior surface of the previous planar member for efficient storage. An integral shield for minimizing distractions to the subject is created by positioning a planar member in a generally lower than vertical position. The puzzle pieces of each puzzle are securely stored and concealed between adjacent planar members.

Abstract: A system and method of use to help a person to stop or modify an adverse habitual health-related behavior, e.g., smoking, weight control, stress management, etc., by following a calculated regimen to commence on a day to be selected by the person. The system comprises a computer and a series of customized visually perceptible messages establishing a customized regimen to aid the person to stop or modify the adverse habitual health-related behavior. The computer is arranged to receive personal information about the person and which is relevant to the behavior and makes use of expert system software to provide the customized messages in response thereto. The customized messages are in the form of a daily sequence measured relative to day selected by the person for the regimen to begin. Each of the messages is arranged to be read by the person in sequence on a daily basis and includes respective numerical indicia representing the number of days from the selected day to the day of said message.

Abstract: An improvement to an apparatus for processing psychological data, said apparatus comprising means for processing data indicative of at least one of an individual's psychological condition, psychological states, concomitant physiological states, and states of dysfunction in conjunction with at least one of psychological, concomitant physiological, and psycho pathological, at least one of principles, theories and research data in order to generate data indicative of at least one of a diagnosis and a treatment plan for the individual, the improvement comprising a remote user interactive means for providing at least one of a remote accessing and utilization of said apparatus, said remote user interactive means further comprising a user input means for inputting data pertaining to an individual and a user display means for providing at least one of an indication of apparatus operation and data relevant to an individual, wherein said remote user interactive means facilitates at least one of data entry and control o

Abstract: An interactive system and method for assisting people in achieving and learning to achieve self-determined, measurable goals over time collects data from a user on the user's progress toward achieving the goals. Metrics are computed from the data which gauge the user's progress towards achieving the goals, and performance feedback is provided to the user. Additional information may be collected from the user regarding their estimate of the likelihood of achieving the goals, and a separate computation may be made of an objective estimate of the user's likelihood of achieving the goals. Random or scheduled, positive or negative psychological reinforcement may also be provided to the user. Preferably, a computer-based system is employed for implementing the method in which a computer system receives and stores all of the collected information, computes the metrics and generates the performance feedback in the form of a progress report.

Abstract: A behavior tracking board provides for the recording and monitoring of the general behavior of individuals. The board is particularly well suited for use in families having one or more small children, where it may be used to monitor their behavior over a predetermined period of time (e.g., one week) for the determination of rewards or punishment based upon the behavior for that period. The present tracking board is also adaptable to school and day care environments, and is capable of providing separate behavior monitoring tracks for a large group of children or individuals. Another embodiment is directed to the monitoring of allowance and monetary reward, and is particularly suited for tracking the behavior of teens. The board basically comprises one or more horizontal rows, with each row corresponding to a single individual or child. Each of the rows includes a movable marker captured in a track therealong, with the markers initially each being placed to the extreme right end of their respective tracks.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of detecting depression and its severity. A series of statements formulated to detect the presence and severity of depression are presented to the subject in a multiple item visual analog format. The subject's answers are given a numerical value. The total score is then normatively ranked to determine the presence and severity of the depression.

Abstract: A tooth brush holder adapted to contain at least one tooth brush is provided with a switch and circuitry such that when the tooth brush is removed from the holder a sound producing device is actuated which device can continue to produce sound for at least a predetermined time. In one preferred form of the invention, the sound producing device may incorporate an audio chip on which a pre-recorded message is located and, in a second form, may include a recordable chip recorded by a user or some other person. The apparatus may be provided with a control apparatus to monitor the amount of time the toothbrush has been removed from the holder to insure that proper brushing has taken place. If the toothbrush is replaced in the holder before the predetermined time period has elapsed, a warning message or tone (and/or light) may be activated advising the user that more brushing is needed.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for quantifying a hierarchy of consumer desirability for an object advertised or displayed in a periodical, catalog or other publication. The present invention also provides a method for altering the profile of a page to enhance consumer desirability for an object positioned on the page. In addition, the present invention is directed to a method of formulating a page profile to maximize consumer desirability for an object positioned on a page.

Abstract: A device and method for assisting people in changing their behaviour and in particular assisting people to stop performing an acquired behavioural response such as using tobacco products, using alcohol, or over-eating is disclosed. The device and method interrupt a user's acquired behavioural response to stimuli before a decision regarding a course of action is made. A set of symbols representing alternative responses to the acquired behavioural responses is then displayed to the user to encourage the user to perform an alternative response. The user acknowledges whether the acquired behavioural response was performed or whether one of the alternative behavioural responses was performed. The device records the number of times either response was performed for later analysis and record keeping.

Abstract: In a given environment where a user may work, play, or otherwise interact, such as the environment provided by a system comprising computer hardware and software, the present invention provides a method, computer program product, and system for teaching reinforcing concepts, principals, and other learned information without requiring user initiation of a learning sequence. Learning or reinforcement occurs by presenting "learning frames" in the environment automatically without requiring user initiation of the learning sequence. The user of the environment receives these intrusive or non-intrusive opportunities for learning while doing other tasks within the environment and may be interrupted from the task at hand and be required to respond to the presented learning frame or may simply have the opportunity for learning without requiring interruption of the task at hand according to the implementation of the present invention.

Abstract: A book having at least one fold out page with a metal insert which assists the placement or arrangement of magnetic manipulatives onto a page of the book.

Abstract: A method for indicating and tracking the progress of activities is disclosed wherein a table containing a calendar covering at least a portion of a calendar year is provided. Activities which are intended to be undertaken during the period of time covered by the calendar are listed in the table and a group of symbols is selected, which symbols are representative of the status and relative priority of such listed activities from commencement through completion or abandonment thereof. The symbols should be readily modifiable so that they can be altered to represent changes in the status and priority of the activities as such status and priority changes occur.

Abstract: A medication status device for reminding a person, particularly a child, to administer insulin or other medications. The device includes a display board having which a graphic image that is attractive to the person. Medication confirmation indicia on the display board indicate whether or not the medication has been administered at a certain time. Included are indicia for providing an affirmative indication to confirm administration of the medication at a certain time, and a negative indication to remind the person to administer the medication at a certain time. In one embodiment, the device also features a toy with which a child can play just before or after administering medication to himself/herself.

Abstract: An infant care simulation system for use in teaching individuals the realities, responsibilities and constraints inherent in caring for young babies. The system also demonstrates the special problems of drug-dependent babies. Basically the system includes a doll having the shape and weight of a young baby and accessories of the sort used with such a baby. The doll and accessories are assigned to an individual for an extended period such as several days. A sound system and electronic circuitry are included within the doll to generate sounds simulating a baby crying at selected intervals for selected time periods. A spring loaded key or other manual switch is provided so that the individual can turn off the crying sound by holding the key in an off position. Preferably the key is secured to the assigned individual in a way preventing it being given to another person. Indicators showing rough handling, improper positioning of the doll, periods before a response is made to a crying signal, etc. are provided.