Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to security systems for securing an item of merchandise from theft or unauthorized removal. For example, the security system may include a sensor configured to be coupled to the item of merchandise, wherein the sensor includes an electrical connector. The security system also includes a base configured to removably support the sensor thereon, wherein the base includes an electronics module having a connector. The connector of the sensor and the connector of the electronics module are configured to electrically connect with one another when the sensor is supported on the base, and the sensor is configured to detect unauthorized removal of the item of merchandise from the sensor.

Abstract: A rectangular carpet plank includes a baseplate having a first side edge opposed from a second side edge; and a carpet layer attached to a top surface of the baseplate. The carpet layer being divided into carpet sections, wherein each carpet section extends from the first side edge to the second side edge; each carpet section has a carpet pattern; and adjacent carpet sections have different carpet patterns.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system stores video clips which a user can select and use to create an ad video. The user can download the video clip, edit it appropriate, and then upload the ad video to the system. The user can then place the ad with a cable service provider as part of an ad campaign. The system allows the user to view available advertising opportunities with one or more video service providers, such as a cable service provider, and then define attributes of an ad campaign defining how and when to stream the ad in various programs. The ad campaign can place the ad in on-demand programs or schedule (broadcast) programs. The user can also be provided with reports indicating in part when the ad was actually streamed, allowing the user evaluate the performance of the ad campaign.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a computer system hosts a web site allowing users via the Internet to post video clips, view video clips, or provide feedback regarding a viewed video clip, wherein the computer system selects the most popular video clips based on certain criteria to make available to a video service provider. In one embodiment, the computer system transcodes the video clip received at the web site into a format compatible with a VOD system associated with a cable service provider, and generates the appropriate metadata based on input from the user posting the video clip based in part on values determined by the computer system and based in part on default values determined by an administrator. Subscribers to a cable service provider can then select and view the video clips in the VOD system by invoking a VOD service offered by the cable service provider.

Abstract: An apparatus (8, 14) for wavelength shifting light from a first frequency ?1 to a second frequency ?2 is provided in the form of a semiconductor intersubband laser (8) lasing at its intersubband frequency ?3. The output light is wavelength shifted to a frequency ?2=?1+n?3, where n is a non-zero integer ( . . . , ?2, ?1, 1, 2, . . . ). The wavelength shifted light ?2 may be amplitude modulated and/or frequency modulated to impart information upon it. The wavelength shifting is a coherent process allowing for the possibility of coherent communication techniques to be used.