Abstract: The convergence speed of a computer-implemented genetic optimization process is improved through the correction of child chromosomes containing undesirable gene combinations. Undesirable gene combinations may be identified through application of heuristic techniques, statistical techniques, or a combination of the two.

Abstract: Methods and systems provide scheduling assistance with automation. A party requesting scheduling can make the request to the automated system in various ways such as a voiced call to a voice services node, an email or instant message over the Internet, or a wireless data message from a wireless device. Request data based on the communication from the requesting party is compared to schedule data, such as by querying a database containing the schedule data. If the request data is compatible with the schedule data such that the request can be accommodated, then the schedule data is altered according to the request data to reflect the new scheduling. A notification may then be sent to the requesting party and/or the scheduling party owning the schedule to confirm the scheduling. For example, a voice services node may provide a verbal confirmation to the requesting party over the voiced call, or an email, instant message, or wireless data message may be sent to the requesting party.

Abstract: Methods and systems assist in real estate transactions by automating the generation of real estate listings utilizing verbal communication with a real estate seller and/or automating the access of real estate listings utilizing verbal communication with real estate customers. A real estate seller may contact a listing service by telephone to provide verbal answers to questions posed through a voice services node. The verbal answers are converted to listing data that is stored for later retrieval when needed by a real estate customer. A real estate customer may contact a listing service by a voice call to provide verbal information that identifies a piece of real estate of interest or identifies real estate preferences. A voice services node then verbally provides listing information about the piece of real estate or about pieces of real estate matching the preferences to the real estate customer.

Abstract: Methods and systems establish games with automation using verbal communication for exchanges between the automated game and the one or more game players. Game information data is converted into verbal information that is provided to the individual. The individual provides verbal instruction which is received and converted into the instruction data. The instruction data is applied to the current game to update the current game status. Information data for the current game status is converted to verbal information for the current game status which is provided to the individual. The game may be implemented on a local device of the individual or may be network-based and accessed remotely by the individual through verbal communication over a voice connection. The voice connection may be of various forms such as a conventional voiced call to a voice services node of a telephone network or a voice-over IP voiced call on a data network.

Abstract: A method of punching chain links for a power transmission chain from metal sheet material to ensure precise location of the apertures relative to the outer link contour of the link being created comprising the steps of piercing the metal sheet material to form the apertures and the back contour of the link at a first station. Piercing the metal sheet material to form link flanks at a second station. Shaving the apertures, the link flanks, and the back contour sequentially at a third same station as the metal sheet material is held stationary. Blanking the outer link contour to separate the link from the metal sheet material at fourth station.

Abstract: A set of discrete transistor sizes spread in an exponential manner over a specified range is the basis for adjusted transistor sizes used to optimize a circuit. One of the discrete transistor sizes may be the original transistor size or other starting point for the optimization.

Abstract: The present provides cyclic compounds capable of modulating IgE production, as well as IL-4 induced processes associated therewith, and methods of using the cyclic compounds in a variety of in vitro and in vitro contexts.