Abstract: A system and method for incorporating biofeedback training into each user's interaction with a multi-user virtual environment, such as a multi-user videogame or a multi-user computer-simulated task, and for enhancing each user's sense of immersion in the multi-user virtual environment, by using measured values of physiological functions received as real-time outputs from at least one biosensory device operatively connected to each user while each user is interacting with the multi-user virtual environment to influence a score of each user's performance, such that each user demonstrating relatively superior physiological self-regulatory skill is rewarded and each user demonstrating relatively inferior physiological self-regulatory skill is penalized.

Abstract: A method of for treating a hydrocarbon fuel comprises applying a plurality of shock waves to the fuel at a frequency and intensity such as to increase the combustion efficiency of the fuel. An apparatus for treating a hydrocarbon fuel comprises a fuel treatment chamber; an inlet for introducing a hydrocarbon fuel to be treated into the treatment chamber; an outlet for removing a treated hydrocarbon fuel from the treatment chamber; and a means for imparting a plurality of shock waves to fuel within the treatment chamber at a frequency and intensity such as to increase the combustion efficiency of the fuel. The apparatus is particularly suitable for installation in the fuel supply system of an internal combustion engine.

Abstract: An insole (102) for a shoe is provided, having a display surface (116), preferably disposed on an insert, for the display of information when the insole is in place in a shoe. A shoe (10), for example a sports shoe, is also provided having a receiver disposed on its external surface. The receiver retains an insert having a display surface, visible when the shoe is being worn and adapted for the display of information. The display surface may carry a brand or other design and/or emit light or sound by means of a suitable emission device. An accessory for a shoe comprises a mount for securing to a shoe, the mount having a display surface adapted to be visible when the shoe is being worn. The mount preferably holds an insert of the kind mentioned above.

Abstract: Pottery wares are fired in a saggar in an electric kiln, whereby effects such as reduction firing and soda firing may be obtained.

Abstract: A method of deriving a single integer figure of merit representative of vital signs of a mammalian, generally a human subject. A systolic blood pressure S, a diastolic pressure D, and a heart rate PR are used to calculate an Inferred Blood Flow (IBF) using the equation IBF=(S?D)* PR/C where C is a constant, typically 100. A procedure is provided for establishing a statistically valid baseline IBF number against which subsequent IBF readings may be compared to assess the wellness (physiological and emotional) of the subject relative to medical community limits and standards. A self-contained apparatus for making measurements, and computing and storing an IBF is also provided. A normalized single digit scale, the Millen Scale is provided and ideal for use with the present invention. A system for monitoring wellness and/or emotional state of being using the IBF parameter is also provided.

Abstract: A means for simultaneous determination of the radial and angular vectors of rotary motion of a body relative to a single reference axis, by measurement of the common aid differential states of three position detectors and, together with an axial position detector, thus to allow the measurable modulation of magnetic devices such as to provide measurable vector forces to support that body against the vector effects of any external forces that tend to change its position relative to the reference axis, in the absence of any contact between the rotor and the combined system of sensors and magnetic devices.

Abstract: The flotation device includes an inflatable bladder, inflation means, activation means for the inflation means and is self-contained. Preferably, a plurality of flotation bladders which are inflatable by the user, a third party or automatically are used. A closure system prevents accidental inflation of the inflation means. The devices provides buoyancy to personnel and associated equipment.

Abstract: A low-power illumination apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a mounting for securely mounting to a building surface in a residence or building. A light bulb socket is electrically connected to an external power source through a hollow housing which holds the socket and the electrical wiring providing the power. The housing may include decorative aspects.

Abstract: A simplified tool for removing and inserting a plumbing fixture seal, particularly for use with ball type faucets using a rubber seal engaged by a cylindrical compression spring. The tool comprises an outer housing and an inner member having a tapered end designed to frictionally engage the seal and spring wherein the inner member is reciprocally disposed within the outer housing. The inner member is retracted inside the outer housing by a retraction spring; and the tapered end of the inner member is forced beyond the end of the outer housing to engage the seal and spring.

Abstract: An article and method for providing a theme representation template for a collage display. The article, in an embodiment thereof, enables a template in the form of a representation of a theme to be overlaid on a collage of materials assembled so as to be visible through cutout portions of the theme representation template. It also enables enhanced formatting of collage materials for theme viewing and displaying thereof.

Abstract: A simplified tool for removing and inserting a plumbing fixture seal, particularly for use with ball type faucets using a rubber seal engaged by a cylindrical compression spring. The tool comprises an outer housing; an inner member having a tapered end designed to frictionally engage the seal and spring, the member being reciprocally disposed within the outer housing, the inner member being retracted inside the outer housing by a retraction spring; and a mechanism for extending the tapered end of the inner member beyond the end of the outer housing sufficient to engage the seal and spring.

Abstract: An RJ-type connector provides simple connection to a wire or cable. The connector consists of a standard RJ-type connector shell which has a hollow interior, an open end and a substantially closed end. One or more feed-through holes is created longitudinally through the shell extending from the open end to the closed end so that a wire may pass through the opening. The feed through holes are generally parallel to each other and may be formed in the same horizontal plane or in different planes. The holes are preferably D-shaped and may be sized to accept either insulated wires or stripped wires. If insulated wires are used, the connector provides the added benefit of confirming that multiple wires have been placed in the proper configuration. The shell further includes a conductive attachment element disposed adjacent to each feed-through holes. The conductive attachment element includes a cutting leg.

Abstract: An anti-torque thruster system implemented onboard an aircraft comprising a propulsion means coupled to the aircraft, wherein the propulsion means is capable of providing a measure of anti-torque thrust to the aircraft, a fuel storage container coupled to the propulsion means via a fuel delivery conduit, wherein the fuel storage container is capable of storing an appropriate fuel for the propulsion means, a valve means disposed between the fuel storage container and the propulsion means, wherein the valve means may be useable to regulate the flow of fuel from the fuel storage container to the propulsion means, and a controller for controlling the valve means to regulate the flow of fuel from the fuel storage container to the propulsion means, wherein the controller is capable of receiving input from at least one input device.