Abstract: In one aspect, the invention relates to a method for creating a supplier-rating matrix for rating services of a supplier. The method includes defining a plurality of job attributes each including a plurality of sub-attributes, each sub-attribute representing a range of job attribute values and defining a job attribute vector associated with the supplier, the job attribute vector including a plurality of dimensions each corresponding to a sub-attribute. The method further includes defining a plurality of performance metrics and defining a performance vector associated with the supplier, the performance vector including a plurality of dimensions each corresponding to a performance metric. The method further includes defining a initial values for the job attribute vector and the performance vector and generating a supplier rating matrix for the supplier by mathematically combining the job attribute vector and the performance vector.

Abstract: A system and method for facilitating voice communications between an end user and a third party Internet web application. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the communication interface unit is operated by an entity separate from the entity operating the third party Internet web application. The communication interface unit receives a voice communication from the end user device and converts the voice communication into a data communication capable of being received and processed by the third party Internet web application. The communication interface unit then transmits the data communication to the third party Internet web application for processing. After the third party Internet web application has processed at least a portion of the data communication, the communication interface unit receives a data communication back from the third party Internet web application.

Abstract: Inappropriate degradation of extracellular matrix molecules by metalloproteinases plays an important role in a wide variety of pathologic conditions including neoplasia and arthritis. The present invention is an isolated protein of approximately 23,000 daltons in size which binds to metalloproteinases with high affinity, can be purified using affinity chromatography on solid phase metalloproteinases, and is potentially useful for therapy of pathologic conditions involving the inappropriate production of metalloproteinases. This protein is characterized by the presence of the following amino acid sequences:CSCSPVHPQQAFCNADVVIRAKAVSEKEVDSGNPIYGNNIKDIEFIYTAPSEAVCGVELDVEGKKRHITLCDFIVPWDTLSTTQKKSLNHRYQQGCEECKITRCPMIPCYISSPDECLWTDTVVKFFACIKRHITLCDFIVPWSQIADXLSSWith the positions of the cysteine residues and associated disulfide bridges required for biologic activity.