Abstract: An automatic playing card shuffler incorporating means for detecting marked cards. One or more light spectrum emitters or variable light spectrum illuminators transmit light at frequencies/wavelengths which is reflected off card backs through one or more spectrum filters causing invisible markings to become visible. A camera may capture images of the now visible markings. A camera and software collaborate to capture images and analyze the same for markings on the card backs such as smudges, nicks and scuffs and edge demarcations. The automatic playing card shufflers are configured to not only detect marked cards but to detect patterns relative to the card markings. The automatic card shufflers are communicatively linked with a casino management system and/or security system such that casino personnel may be alerted in real time to the discovery of marked cards.

Abstract: User gaze information, which may include a user line of sight, user point of focus, or an area that a user is not looking at, is determined from user body, head, eye and iris positioning. The user gaze information is used to select a context and interaction set for the user. The interaction sets may include grammars for a speech recognition system, movements for a gesture recognition system, physiological states for a user health parameter detection system, or other possible inputs. When a user focuses on a selected object or area, an interaction set associated with that object or area is activated and used to interpret user inputs. Interaction sets may also be selected based upon areas that a user is not viewing. Multiple devices can share gaze information so that a device does not require its own gaze detector.

Abstract: A programmable application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) for implementing operations that involve a plurality of computational functions. The programmable ASIC comprises a plurality of fixed functions and programmable switch logic. Each of the plurality of fixed functions is parameterized such that its operational characteristics are programmable using different operating parameters. In addition, each of the plurality of fixed functions inputs and outputs data in accordance with common interface rules. The programmable switch logic is configurable to link two or more of the fixed functions in a sequence to perform desired operations. The fixed functions are implemented using “hard” or fixed digital logic gates such as those in an ASIC.

Abstract: A sprue insert-set which substantially eliminates sprue castings and improves melt-flow in high-pressure hot-chamber diecasting. The insert-set consists of (i) a heated sprue body insert for mounting in the fixed dieblock of a die set and (ii) a cooled sprue tip insert for mounting in the moving dieblock of the die set. The body and tip inserts are mounted so that their inner ends mate with one another in the region of the die parting-line to conjointly form a curved transition channel that connects the sprue channel in the body insert with a runner channel formed along the parting-line of the die set. The temperatures of the body insert and the top insert can be controlled so that the freeze-point occurs in the transition channel and the melt in the sprue channel is able to run back into the machine nozzle at the end each shot, thereby eliminating sprue castings.

Abstract: This invention is a portable container resembling a large purse or a small piece of luggage that might be carried by a person to transport any of a variety of portable items to an outdoor sporting event. The container or bag has a flexible strap to allow the the bag to be carried by hand or to be slung over the shoulder. The bag has two identical internal pockets that extend across the full length and width of the bag and are openable by a zipper or other quick opening closure. Internally of one pocket is a block of a foamed elastomer that completely fills that compartment and thereby becomes a comfortable pillow upon which the bag owner sits the other pocket contains a protective cape that is heavy enough to keep the wearer warm and sufficiently water resistant to shield the wearer from rain or snow. Preferably, the bag will be printed or otherwise illustrated with the logo of a sports team so as to identify the owner as a fan of that team.

Abstract: Methods for the treatment of Microsporidia keratoconjunctivitis and Acanthamoeba keratitis are disclosed that include the topical administration of an effective amount of fumagillin or a derivative or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent.

Abstract: A wheeled concrete screed, comprising a strike board and blade assembly, a pair of corresponding main handle members pivotally mounted to the strike board and blade assembly, a pair of corresponding wheel assemblies affixed to and extending downwardly from the main handle members, and means to adjust the pitch of the strike board and blade assembly independent of changes in elevation of the strike board and blade assembly.

Abstract: 8.