Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments to determine network transit time for a packet. A request packet for determining a network transit time is received. A reply packet is transmitted to the requester in response to the request packet. A reply packet is transmitted to the requester. The reply packet includes information about a packet processing time. This packet processing time includes a time between the receiving of the request packet and the transmitting of the reply packet.

Abstract: Methods and Apparatuses for a collaborative effort from a group of participants on an issue-exploration process on one or more client machines are discussed. A form-based Internet application that consists of a systematic structure of a series of tab forms to set up a framework for a collaborative effort from a group of participants on an issue-exploration process is configured for an initial issue. The form-based Internet application via the series of tab forms is configured to enable and collect knowledge and insights from the group of participants during the stages of the issue-exploration process. The form-based Internet application has an open framework with the stages of the issue-exploration process in that an actual content of the ideas contributed by participants actively shapes a non-linear progression of the issue-exploration process from the initial issue to the current issue in the issue-exploration process.

Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments to determine network transit time for a packet. A request packet for determining a network transit time is received. A reply packet is transmitted to the requester in response to the request packet. A reply packet is transmitted to the requester. The reply packet includes information about a packet processing time. This packet processing time includes a time between the receiving of the request packet and the transmitting of the reply packet.

Abstract: Methods and Apparatuses for a collaborative effort from a group of participants on an issue-exploration process on one or more client machines are discussed. A form-based Internet application that consists of a systematic structure of a series of tab forms to set up a framework for a collaborative effort from a group of participants on an issue-exploration process is configured for an initial issue. The form-based Internet application via the series of tab forms is configured to enable and collect knowledge and insights from the group of participants during the stages of the issue-exploration process. The form-based Internet application has an open framework with the stages of the issue-exploration process in that an actual content of the ideas contributed by participants actively shapes a non-linear progression of the issue-exploration process from the initial issue to the current issue in the issue-exploration process.

Abstract: A diverse group of participants using on one or more client machines is enabled to generate on a user interface their solicited responses about any set of two or more independent variables that underlie a complex issue. The two or more independent variables are applied against each other. A likely outcome is predicted, wherein an application resident on a server is configured to integrate the solicited responses from the participants. The results are displayed on the display of the client machines to enable the participants to view. The participants are to develop insights related to the complex issue based on reviewing the results.

Abstract: The present invention relates, inter alia, to a method for producing a green leaf vegetable having an extended shelf life or enhanced organoleptic properties, or both, which comprises applying to the foliage of a green leaf vegetable during its growing period an effective amount of a strobilurin or strobilurin-type fungicide. In particular, the present invention relates to a method for producing lettuce having an extended shelf life or enhanced organoleptic properties.

Abstract: A method for accessing, retrieving, and transferring data electronically in a publicly accessible location, the method comprising providing a user interface device at a location accessible by a general populace where the user interface device comprises at least one of an image scanning input device for downloading an image, a film scanning input device for processing and downloading film negatives, a media transfer device, a wireless data transfer device, an audio/video transfer device, an audio recording input device, an image recording input device, and a user control device; providing a data storage device where data sent and received is stored; providing a network which connects the user interface device with the data storage device; allowing a user to enter data into the user interface device for later retrieval; allowing a user to retrieve data using the user interface device; and paying for at least one of the allowing a user to enter data and the allowing a user to retrieve data.

Abstract: A cover for protecting a direct broadcast satellite antenna having a flange around the outside perimeter of the antenna. The cover is fabricated from a waterproof, flexible sheet material, such as marine grade vinyl. The cover is sized to have a margin extending approximately one-half of the width of the flange beyond the outside edge of the antenna. A "J clip" strip having one edge folded over in a "J" configuration and having a width approximately the same dimension as the flange of the antenna, is positioned along the outer face of the cover with the opposite edge of the strip aligned even with the edge of the cover. The strip is sewn or otherwise attached to the cover material to form the completed cover. A gap of approximately 6" can be provided along one portion of the perimeter of the cover to provide clearance for the supporting structure and ventilation to the inside of the antenna.

Abstract: A material handling device is disclosed for use in a material holding, or storage, receptacle. The device includes a vertically positioned discharge duct having spaced apertures therein with the bottom of the duct connected to a discharge access passage whereby granular, free flowing material, such as grain, within the receptacle, is withdrawn through the apertures and discharge duct in a manner such that the withdrawn material is from the top of the stored mass. The apertures are either staggered or opposed with respect to one another along the discharge duct. Material loading is through the top of the receptacle with the loading duct, or channel, being formed in a manner so as to prevent damage by impact to the material being introduced.