Abstract: A system for use in an online merchant system which includes a system for homogenizing the format of received commerce item information from at least two distinct online entities, an aggregate database for storing the homogenized commerce item information, and a user interface that accesses the aggregate database for query and retrieval of competitive commerce item information from the online entities and displays it within a user's Web browser window. The system comprises a method and apparatus for associating a commerce item information tag with each separate unit of commerce item information that is received to the online merchant system, the commerce item information tag enabling recording and reporting commerce metrics related to the commercial activity of a commerce item for sale through the online merchant system.

Abstract: A novel method for characterizing nucleic acids. A nucleic acid is combined with a double stranded nucleic acid-specific dye to form a detectable complex between the dye and one or more double stranded structures within the nucleic acid. The combination is then exposed to varying temperatures and the fluorescence emission of the dye is measured to determine the melting temperature(s) for the double stranded structures. In some embodiments that melting temperature profile is then compared to melting temperature profiles generated for other nucleic acid(s) to discern differences between the compared nucleic acids.

Abstract: A dish rack has a wire frame base, a horizontal wire segment coupled to the wire frame base, and a swinging arm pivotably coupled to the horizontal wire segment. The swinging arm has a plurality of holders and a lock mechanism that removably engages the swinging arm with a portion of the wire frame base.

Abstract: A container for storing and dispensing plastic bags and process for manufacturing the same. The container includes a front panel extending from the top of the container to the bottom of the container and having a substantially smooth surface with no sharp bents. The container includes a funnel-shaped aperture for facilitating insertion of the plastic bags into the container in a compact and collapsed form. One embodiment of the container has a flat profile that allows the container to be mounted to a vertical surface in a space-saving manner and that helps minimize entanglement as more bags are inserted into the container. The container also includes an access opening for dispensing the plastic bags. Another embodiment of the container is a free-standing structure having a base that can be rested on a horizontal surface.

Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for modeling and utilizing metrics, processes and technology in marketing applications. According to multiple embodiments, the present invention includes marketing models, processes, metrics and software implementations and the integration thereof in marketing management tools for analysis of marketing functions and methodology. In one aspect the present invention provides for the strategic creation, nurturing and enhancement of brand equity as a metric of the marketing process.

Abstract: The present invention is a container for an IV aqueous solution of a Gram-positive oxazolidinone agent, such as linezolid a the compound of formula: which comprises having the container-solution contact surface material be a polyolefin.