Abstract: This described technology generally relates to a data management system configured to implement, among other things, web-scale computing services, data storage and data presentation. Web-scale computing services are the fastest growing segment of the computing technology and services industry. In general, web-scale refers to computing platforms that are reliable, transparent, scalable, secure, and cost-effective. Illustrative web-scale platforms include utility computing, on-demand infrastructure, cloud computing, Software as a Service (SaaS), and Platform as a Service (PaaS). Consumers are increasingly relying on such web-scale services, particularly cloud computing services, and enterprises are progressively migrating applications to operate through web-scale platforms.

Abstract: A logical apparatus and associated methods provide highly scalable and flexible data storage in a network of computers. The apparatus provides flexible organizational and access control mechanisms and a practical and efficient way to work with smaller portions of a data storage system at a given time to enable sparse population, caching, paging and related functions. A data structure, called a virtual container, comprises references to objects stored in a data storage system such that the same object can be visible from different virtual containers, if such virtual containers hold references to said object. Access controls further enhance the effectiveness of the methods and structures to enable multiple simultaneous organizational schemes and selective sharing of objects.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer readable storage media for providing virtual access to network services. A virtual storage layer contains reference objects configured to reference network services stored in a network computing environment. Network clients access the reference objects through a resource interface based on a resource identifier associated with the virtual storage layer. Initiation of the virtual service by a network client invokes the service in a native computing environment of the service.

Abstract: A method for making data placement decisions in a computer network uses multiple factors comprising social rules (rules, factors and criteria common to all participating nodes and intended to benefit the community of nodes), as well as rules, factors and criteria driven by individual self-interest of the participating nodes. The method calls for each node to act in a semi-autonomous manner, without the need for a central coordinating node. By considering multiple factors fully, and not eliminating factors by a sequence of True/False decisions, the method may arrive at optimal decisions and may generate a ranked list of node candidates.

Abstract: A method for making optimal decisions includes the ability to consider and weigh multiple factors, where those factors might be numeric, or non-numeric, objective or subjective. Further, the method ensures that factors are not prematurely eliminated. This contrasts with behavior common to decision-tree based approaches. The method further allows for weighting based on multiple statistical means as well as by the application of non-statistical values.

Abstract: A method for determining a value indicator in a broker-mediated geospatial information service environment includes receiving feedback data at a first system of the broker-mediated geospatial information service environment. In particular, the feedback data is received from a plurality of respondents, and relates to a broker-mediated geospatial information service provided to each respondent of the plurality of respondents. Furthermore, each respondent of the plurality of respondents is a prior requestor of a process-dataset solution for performing the broker-mediated geospatial information service. Based on the feedback data, a value indicator relating to the process-dataset solution is determined.

Abstract: A method includes receiving from a requestor search criteria for a geospatial information service. The requestor selects a dataset for use in providing the geospatial information service. A plurality of processes is determined, resulting in process-dataset solutions to the search criteria including the selected dataset. In particular, each process-dataset solution includes the selected dataset and a process of the determined plurality of processes. A list is provided to the requester, the list including the plurality of process-dataset solutions.

Abstract: A method for providing a geospatial information service in a broker-mediated geospatial information service environment includes receiving a request at a broker system from a requestor. The request includes search criteria for returning geospatial information to the requestor. A plurality of process-dataset solutions is determined, each process-dataset solution comprising a process and a dataset to be processed thereby so as to perform a geospatial information service for returning information based on geospatial information to the requestor in accordance with the search criteria. A list is provided from the broker system to the requester, the list including the plurality of process-dataset solutions as well as a value indicator that is associated with each of the provided process-dataset solutions.

Abstract: A novel car wash composition substantially eliminates water-spotting. This novel car wash composition is comprised of: a surfactant package which is comprised of a first surfactant selected from the group consisting essentially of an anionic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant and mixtures thereof; and a second surfactant selected from the group consisting essentially of fluorosurfactant, a silicone surfactant, and mixtures thereof; and a substantive polymer that renders the surface to be cleaned more hydrophilic.

Abstract: An auto finish-treating composition universally useful on paint, metal, vinyl and other plastic finishes comprises micronized wax dispersed in a water/organic solvent emulsion also containing silicone liquid emulsified in both the organic and aqueous phases.

Abstract: A finishing composition for restoring the appearance of the aged, painted surface of an automobile comprises an isobutyl methacrylate resin polymer dissolved in a solvent system comprising a low boiling organic solvent and a high boiling organic solvent.

Abstract: This invention relates to a composition and method for cleaning and waterproofing a substrate and inhibiting the build-up of static electricity on said substrate. The inventive composition comprises: water; a detergent amount of at least one nonionic surfactant; an anti-static amount of at least one amphoteric surfactant; and a waterproofing amount of at least one organofunctional silane. The inventive method involves the steps of: (A) applying a first sample of the inventive composition to the substrate being treated and cleaning the substrate with the first sample; (B) removing the first sample from the substrate; (C) coating the substrate with a second sample of the inventive composition; and (D) drying the second sample on the substrate.

Abstract: This invention relates to an abrasive-containing surface-finish composition, comprising: an effective amount of abrasive particulates to enhance the non-slip characteristics of said composition, said abrasive particulates having an average particle size of up to about 100 microns. The surface finish-composition can be water-based or oil-based. In one embodiment the surface-finish composition further comprises water, at least one acrylic polymer and at least one synthetic wax. Optional ingredients include one or more alkali-soluble resins, leveling agents, water-soluble solvents, plasticizers, defoaming agents, fragrance enhancers, biocides, and the like. These compositions are useful as anti-slip floor finishes.

Abstract: Method for clarifying bodies of water and removing staining from the containers therefor, particularly swimming pools, by the addition of chlorine and/or bromine ion and ammonium ion to the water.