Abstract: A graphical interaction and authoring system is provided that combines textual and graphical information to display hierarchical information via an interactive visual mechanism for the composition and manipulation of syntactic structures, enabling business users to view, operate, and compose information in a way that not only graphically preserves the structure of the syntax, but also maintains the relationship of the expression. The system provides a way for the users to interact with it dynamically and effectively.

Abstract: A technique is provided for managing (1210) externalizable inference components. The technique allows for dynamic construction of inferences from separate components, and externalization of data for controlling dynamic constructable inferences. One key benefit realized is the capability to mix and match various externalized inference components to form new inferences; or stated in a different way, the ability to deduce new knowledge by combining (reusing) and exercising various components in new ways. Provisions are made for pluggable inference components that can be combined in many distinct ways to fit the needs of different applications. This allows inference components to be developed independently and to be highly portable.

Abstract: The present invention utilizes agents embedded in content delivered to clients across a network to provide client-side security for the data delivered to a client. These embedded agents provide application-specific protection for the delivered content in which they are embedded and eliminate the need for using plug-ins for security functions. Different agents, e.g. programs such as Java applets, are configured having a variety of different client or application specific protection mechanisms, and the agents are dynamically configured, e.g. selected, in accordance with the application, the client to be protected or other environment criteria. Once the agent has been appropriately configured, the agent is embedded in the content, and the content is delivered to the client. Once delivered, the embedded agent is uploaded to the client and executed, providing the configured security protection at the client side for the content in which it was embedded.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to systems and methods that treat the monitoring of a software application as a separate and independent concern from the software application itself. The present invention utilizes aspect oriented programming to intercept, analyze, decompose the application states of a software application and then to link appropriate non-invasive constructs into the software application code to provide application state information to an autonomic manager through a plurality of sensors. The autonomic manager analyzes the application state information for compliance pre-defined parameters, and takes appropriate corrective action including modifying the software application states using a plurality of effectors. The sensors and effectors are linked as non-invasive constructs to the software application, and in aspect oriented programming constitute aspects.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for authoring and executing an individualized language business rule. In one embodiment, a method comprises creating at least one individualized language resource, creating at least one individualized language rule referencing at least one of said individualized language resource, and transforming said at least one individualized language rule into computer executable format.

Abstract: A linking assembly for reliably and securely interconnecting thin-walled welded tubes in order to assemble a floor lamp pole includes a hollow plug member which fits securely into one hollow tube member and mates with a socket securely fitted into an adjacent tube member. Each of the plug and the socket are provided with several slots therethrough, which provide arc flats, which are bendable inwardly to provide additional elasticity and assist insertion into a corresponding tube. An internal strengthening circumferential flange is provide to increase rigidity, and longitudinal channels in the socket and plug prevent rotation relative to the tubes of the lamp pole.

Abstract: A connecting assembly for fixing the tubular stem/stud of a portable lamp to the base of the same comprising a tube having a butting shoulder to abut upon the upper end of a top hole in the base of a portable lamp, and folding tabs at the lower end of the tube which are folded outwardly to fix the tube tight to the base. As the tube is expanded during a folding procedure, a tight fit is realized. The top hole in the base may include one or two recessed tubular portions to facilitate assembly and ensure rigidity of the assembly.