Abstract: A data processing apparatus is operated to optimize the amount of information represented by entries in a database. The operation comprises forming prior distributions over the parameters of entries in the database and subjecting a potential entry for the database to a process of evaluation. The evaluation includes, (a) sampling parameters from the prior distributions, (b) calculating a utility function from the samples and from the potential entry, and (c) calculating a utility value from the utility function. The process of evaluation is repeated for each of a plurality of further potential entries and the potential entry having the highest calculated utility value is selected.

Abstract: In many situations it is required to predict if and/or when an event will occur after a trigger. For example, businesses such as banks would like to predict if and when their customers are likely to leave after a particular event such as closing a loan. The business is then able to take action to prevent loss of customers. Customer data including data about customer who have closed a loan and then left a bank for example, is used to create a Bayesian statistical model. A plurality of attributes are available for each customer and the model involves partitioning these attributes into a plurality of partitions. In one embodiment the Bayesian statistical model is a survival analysis type model and in another embodiment the model comprises fitting a Weibull distribution to the data in each of the partitions. The marginal likelihood of the data is calculated and then the method involves mixing over all possible partitions in a Bayesian framework.

Abstract: This invention concerns apparatus and a method for preparing an embryo for cryogenic storage, and for thawing thereof prior to implantation. The apparatus employs a washing tube containing a microporous filter dividing the tube into two chambers between opposite open ends. A tubular coupling member is attachable to either end of the tube. A liquid driving device which may be an aspirator, drives holding, washing, and storing liquid through the tube while the filter retains the embryo in a washing chamber. A storage straw can be attached to the coupling member to receive by aspiration the storing liquid containing the embryo. The straw contains a movable plug or wick at one end to force the storing liquid and embryo out of the storage straw into the washing chamber, after the storing liquid is thawed.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for producing a detailed plan to a known scale showing an optimized fit of material of predetermined dimensional characteristics into a given area. The invention finds utility in the field of carpet installation. After the perimeter of the area to be carpeted is measured, an array of signals is produced and stored to identify the coordinates of the area. A detailed plan, which is produced by interaction between an operator and the plotting system, shows the area outline, all seam locations, and the length of each strip needed to cover the given area.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an electromechanical actuator which acts as an analog of a fluid operated cylinder. A tubular piston moves along the axis of a fixed outer cylinder. One end of the piston is fitted with a threaded stud to which a clevis or other load attachment device can be attached. The other end of the piston, inside the outer cylinder, is attached to a coaxial drive nut. The drive nut is threaded onto a coaxial lead screw which passes through the drive nut and clears the inside of the piston. The drive nut is notched at a plurality of locations, the notches corresponding to a plurality of axially extending protrusions on the inside of the outer cylinder. Thus, when the lead screw is rotated, translational motion is imparted to the drive nut due to its inability to rotate relative to the outer cylinder. A small bar magnet is affixed to the drive nut and cooperates with an external reed switch to provide intermediate shutoff points.