Abstract: A procedure for provisioning a network, and a system, apparatus, and computer program that operate in accordance with the procedure. The procedure comprises performing a provisioning action to provision a traffic flow in a network. A graphical representation of a portion of the network is provided based on a result of the provisioning action. In one example aspect, the graphical representation comprises a plurality of representative elements representing one or more network components and one or more links between at least two of the plurality of representative elements. The network components comprise, for example, at least one of a network element, an optical channel, or a cross-connection, or the like.

Abstract: A pitching movement training device includes a ball, a plurality of pegs selectively secured at predetermined locations about the surface of the ball, and at least one band secured between adjacent pegs. The ball has a seam and at least one of the pegs being positioned adjacent the seam. The ball allows one to teach athletes proper hand positioning upon a ball while throwing specific pitches. The method includes providing the plurality of pegs and the ball, securing the pegs to the ball at predetermined locations about the outer surface of the ball, positioning a user's fingers relative to the pegs; and instructing the user to throw a pitch with a specific hand motion.

Abstract: A pitching movement training device includes a ball, a plurality of pegs selectively secured at predetermined locations about the surface of the ball, and at least one band secured between adjacent pegs. The ball has a seam and at least one of the pegs being positioned adjacent the seam. The ball allows one to teach athletes proper hand positioning upon a ball while throwing specific pitches. The method includes providing the plurality of pegs and the ball, securing the pegs to the ball at predetermined locations about the outer surface of the ball, positioning a user's fingers relative to the pegs; and instructing the user to throw a pitch with a specific hand motion.

Abstract: This invention relates to an improved process for casting a metal by pouring molten metal into and around a mold assembly, where a riser is a component of the mold assembly. The process comprises (a) inserting a riser insert into the cavity of the riser, and (b) then allowing molten metal to flow into the cavity of the riser containing the riser insert. The process is carried out in a manner such that the density and the shape of the riser insert enables the riser insert to float on the surface of the molten metal when the molten metal enters the cavity of the riser.