Abstract: Systems and method may implement a publish/subscribe messaging framework for distributing messages among a plurality of mobile computing devices. A particular “publish/subscribe channel” may be implemented in the context of an auction for one or more items, e.g., collectibles such as trading cards, toys, and/or figurines. The implementation of the publish/subscribe messaging framework may allow for real-time communications of developments in the auction(s) which, in combination with a real-time video stream from a host to a plurality of guests in the channel, amounts to an improved user experience at host devices and guest devices. Additional computing techniques may supplement the implementation of the live auction channel, said computing techniques providing improved scalability for live auction channels comprising hundreds or even thousands of guests.

Abstract: Systems and method may implement a publish/subscribe messaging framework for distributing messages among a plurality of mobile computing devices. A particular “publish/subscribe channel” may be implemented in the context of an auction for one or more items, e.g., collectibles such as trading cards, toys, and/or figurines. The implementation of the publish/subscribe messaging framework may allow for real-time communications of developments in the auction(s) which, in combination with a real-time video stream from a host to a plurality of guests in the channel, amounts to an improved user experience at host devices and guest devices.

Abstract: Systems and methods for implementing improvements to “live events,” via which a host of the event may offer one or more items to one or more guests in the event (e.g., via auction, via direct purchase, and/or via giveaway). In particular, the host device may automatically capture and/or upload one or more images of the item(s) to one or more servers for processing. The one or more servers in turn may use the processed image to populate the host's item inventory listings, item profiles, packaging labels, etc. for access and display to the host and/or guests.

Abstract: A wrist exercise device includes a hollow shaft which houses a pair of compression springs. Tension disks are provided at the remote ends of the springs. The disks are moved toward and away from each other by turning a tension knob at one end of the device to increase or decrease the resistance from a pair of friction pads on each side of a handle at each end of the device. A resistance indicator is provided at one end of the device.

Abstract: A wrist exercise device includes a hollow shaft having a turning disk rotatably mounted at one end thereof. Resistance is provided to oppose the rotation of the turning disk. A turning knob is secured at the opposite end of the shaft for setting the amount of the resistance. Detachable weights are mounted on the device so that the device also functions as a dumbbell.