Abstract: A method for enabling user selection of an alternate format simulcast programming.

Abstract: A system and method providing a call management system adapted for use within a content delivery system.

Abstract: A novel electronic program guide (EPG) based method and system provides viewer/user groups with an improved program recommendation feature for predicting programs that are likely to be of interest.

Abstract: A centrifuge separation chamber of particular use for separating microbes. The chamber has an upwardly flared conical shape, and a sample collecting groove at its widest point. Sample is collected in the sample groove as the chamber spins. When slowed to a stop, the supernatant sinks to the bottom of the chamber, leaving the sample in the sample groove where it can be easily accessed.

Abstract: A card game and a pack of cards for use therewith, the pack including a number of topic cards at least one of which is selected by the player and a number of playing cards in a pack which can be shuffled, a first additional card being located beneath the topic card and, if this additional card does not incorporate an “END” on its lower edge, a further additional card is located therebeneath until the lower end of an additional card incorporates the word “END”, the lower portion of each card, unless it is a card with an “END”, having the first part of a sentence and the upper portion of each card, unless it is a topic card, having the completion of a sentence, the player then reading the sentence(s) on the cards dealt. The cards can be in the form of a tarot pack for persons who are interested in this art, but this is not necessary.

Abstract: A sample vessel may comprise a tubule having an opening for receiving a sample material and at least one compressible section, a generally rigid container receiving at least a portion of the tubule; and an interface in fluid communication with the opening in the tubule. The at least one compressible section may have a wall constructed at least partially from a material having sufficient flexibility to permit compression of opposed sections of the wall into contact. The interface may facilitate delivery of a sample material to the tubule through the opening. A sample vessel may also comprise a tubule having a plurality of lumens and a wall constructed at least partially from a material having sufficient flexibility to permit compression of opposed sections of the wall into contact with one another and a pressure gate connecting at least two lumens to permit selective fluid flow between the at least two lumens.

Abstract: A packaging material composed of cellulosic fiber, a softener, water, and, optionally, a water soluble binder. The biodegradable packaging material is prepared by a process of admixing cellulosic fiber, a softener, water and, optionally, a water soluble binder to form a slurry, and admixing a blowing agent with the slurry to form a pulp. The pulp is formed into a shaped material and dried.