Abstract: A method for tracking digital files transmitted over the Internet by placing certain identifying indicia within a file, and monitoring selected sites through which Internet traffic is transmitted, to determine the source and destination of a transmission containing a file with particular identifying indicia. Identifying indicia (‘ID’) is placed in the header of each digital file whose transmission over the Internet is to be monitored. A data communications monitoring device is installed at a Internet service provider's (ISP's) facility. The monitoring device intercepts packets received by the ISP. These intercepted packets are then examined to determine whether they contain an ID of interest. If a sought ID is found within the packet, the source and destination fields in the Internet Protocol (IP) header are logged, along with the ID and other information, in a database.

Abstract: An arousal device has an intensity that is automatically adjusted in response to the arousal state of the user. There are three types of elements: one or more monitoring elements to collect biological data from the user relevant to his or her state of arousal; a processing element to receive the biological data and identify the appropriate intensity adjustment; and one or more output elements to deliver sensual stimulation to the user.

Abstract: An electronic media distribution/play system includes a service facility that has a communications network interface and maintains a data file catalog. The catalog is sent over the network to requesting users, and the system processes payments from customers in establishing file access authorizations. Encrypted user-selected files and a player program are transmitted to each customer for metered access to received data files as limited by the authorization, and customers can make additional selections and play the encrypted files freely while the authorization remains established. The system can transmit the data files from local storage, and also provide links to encrypted files that are stored at remote vendor facilities. Authorizations can be for selected portions or class levels of the catalog, and for terms measured as calendar time, play time, and collective number of plays. Also disclosed is a method for facilitating the distribution and accessing of electronic files.

Abstract: A method and device for stimulating human dermal tissue retraction and collagen and elastin production is provided. One or more lasers or other electromagnetic radiation devices produce at least two output beams (split or independent beams) that can be directed to deliver electromagnetic energy to a desired subsurface depth of dermal tissue, thereby disrupting the same, without causing excessive damage to the adjacent epidermis, subcutaneous fatty tissue, or blood vessels of the skin.

Abstract: Techniques for altering iris pigment in a human or animal, thereby altering iris color of an iris from a first iris color to a second iris color, are provided. An apparatus includes at least one laser device and a masking device. Another apparatus includes at least one laser device and a contact lens. The at least one laser device can generate at least one beam to selectively remove iris pigment of at least one preselected pigment color from the iris. The energy level of the at least one beam is within a predetermined range. The masking devices include a transparent portion and an opaque portion. The opaque portion of one such masking device occludes a portion of the at least one beam to protect a pupil area. The opaque portion of another such masking device creates an elliptical beam for application of the beam laterally from the side of the iris or some other different angle for lateral exposure of the iris. The contact lens includes a transparent portion and an opaque portion.