Abstract: Video special effects apparatus comprises a core program object; and a plurality of render processor plug-in program objects responsive to the core program object, the render processors being arranged in directed acyclic graph, each operable to render an output result relating to successive images of a video signal from input data relating to that and/or other images received from a preceding render processor in the directed acyclic graph and in response to operational parameters relating to that render processor; in which each operational parameter is defined by a parameter plug-in object arranged to communicate a parameter value to the render processor plug-in object.

Abstract: According to the invention, an Ethernet system and method of using an Ethernet system is provided including a network side device (a hub/switch/concentrator), and a plurality of end devices (either a standard end device powered locally or a system powered device), connected to the hub/switch. The system powered devices have circuitry for indicating the system power need to the hub, which has a power source for selectively supplying system power over the Ethernet. A stimulus device associated with the network device sends a stimulus signal over the network connection lines during a detection phase. The need for power is signaled by an indication device associated with the system powered end devices, providing an indication signal in response to the stimulus signal.

Abstract: A method of digital image processing for detecting whether a test point within a digital representation of an image lies inside or outside a closed curve defined by an ordered series of curve points within the representation of the image, comprises the steps of: (i) detecting an angle subtended at the test point by pairs of the curve points adjacent to one another in the ordered series; (ii) summing the detected angles for all pairs of the curve points adjacent to one another in the ordered series; and (iii) detecting whether the summed angle is equal to a non-zero integral multiple of 360°, thereby indicating that the test point lies within the closed curve.

Abstract: There is disclosed a putter and an attachment for a putter. The putter head has at least one striking face, a rear face and side faces or edges defining a body of a predetermined thickness to which a shaft is attached. Within the body of the putter head there is provided either a recess which opens into the rear face of the head or a closed aperture completely defined within the body which is of marginally greater dimensions than, and adapted to receive a conventionally sized golf ball. The recess or aperture is disposed substantially centrally of the head behind striking face of the putter so that the sweet spot on the striking face is substantially centrally disposed of said recess or aperture. Ideal toe-heel weight distribution can be achieved in this manner, and the putter can be used as a practicing aid by swinging the putter proximate a floor when a golf ball is disposed within said recess or aperture.

Abstract: An erectable, collapsible frame (2) for a shelter (1), the frame (2) being erectable to support a canopy (3) in order to form the shelter. The frame (2) includes at least 3 legs (4), and a perimeter support assembly (12) extending between and interconnecting adjacent legs (4). A canopy peak support assembly (28) extends outwardly from the legs (4), when the frame (2) is erected, to define an underlying shelter space (S). The legs (4) and support assemblies (12,28) are pivotably interconnected to enable unfolding and folding for respective erection and collapse of the frame (2).

Abstract: There is disclosed a putter and an attachment for a putter. The putter head has at least one striking face, a rear face and side faces or edges defining a body of a predetermined thickness to which a shaft is attached. Within the body of the putter head there is provided either a recess which opens into the rear face of the head or a closed aperture completely defined within the body which is of marginally greater dimensions than, and adapted to receive a conventionally sized golf ball. The recess or aperture is disposed substantially centrally of the head behind striking face of the putter so that the sweet spot on the striking face is substantially centrally disposed of said recess or aperture. Ideal toe-heel weight distribution can be achieved in this manner, and the putter can be used as a practicing aid by swinging the putter proximate a floor when a golf ball is disposed within said recess or aperture.

Abstract: The invention relates to deoxyribo- and ribo-oligonucleotides and derivatives thereof, as well as pharmaceutical preparations, therapies, diagnostics and commercial research reagents in relation to disease states which respond to modulation of the synthesis of the enzyme S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase (SAMDC). In particular, the invention relates to antisense oligonucleotides and oligonucleotide derivatives specifically hybridizable with nucleic acids relating to (preferably human) SAMDC. These oligonucleotides and their derivatives have been found to modulate the synthesis of SAMDC in cells.

Abstract: An electrical connector and cable termination system has a plug body (12) for mating with an opposed connector part, and an outlet body (22) to which a cable (60) is attached. The cable approaches the connector at an angle of 90.degree. to the major mating axis (C) of the connector. The outlet body and the plug body can be relatively rotated about the major axis of the connector. To this end, there is a retention ring (40) for inhibiting relative axial movement of the outlet body and the first connector body part, a key (50) and detent (54) for permitting relative rotation by at least 180.degree. but inhibiting relative rotation in excess of 360.degree., and an O-ring (34) of conductive resilient material between the outlet body and the plug body and for providing a limited degree of frictional resistance to the relative rotation of the outlet body and the first connector body part.

Abstract: A board game apparatus includes a game board having a plurality of sequentially arranged game squares which follow a path of progression along the game. The game squares list a plurality of traditional poker hands thereon. A six-sided numeric die is provided for determining advancement of token playing pieces along the path of progression on the game board. Nine six-sided dice each side having one of fifty-two different playing card indicia listed thereon as well as two sides listing a joker or other wild card indicia are provided for attempted attainment of the poker hand listed on the game square that a token playing piece sets.

Abstract: This invention relates to a new method of plant growth regulation whereby a 1-phenylpyrazole such as fipronil is applied to a crop or a seed.

Abstract: Method of control of corn borers attacking or susceptible or expected to attack corn plants whereby an effective amount of a 1-aryl pyrazole insecticidally active ingredient is applied near the corn sown seed.Method of protection of corn plants against European corn borer, whereby an effective amount of a 1-aryl pyrazole insecticidally active ingredient is applied near the corn sown seed.