Abstract: Duobinary and NRZ modulation of an X-Gb/s optical signal is achieved with a lumped element InP Mach-Zehnder device configured to operate at X/k-Gb/s where k>1 and arranged in a push-pull configuration.

Abstract: A method and system for a loan-making entity to provide a benefit to employees of others by way of payday advance loans on demand to qualified borrowers. Agreements are entered into between the entity and the employee and between the entity and the employer. When an employee needs a payday advance loan, he or she telephones or goes on-line to the entity and asks for a desired amount. Employment status but no other credit information is checked, and the funds are immediately available to the employee, in cash, by check, by debit card funding, or the like. The entity advises the employer electronically of all outstanding loans on or before the next payday, and loans with fee amounts are deducted from employees' paychecks and the loans and fees are paid to the entity. Any shortfalls in monies payable roll over to the next pay period, with added fees as appropriate. The entity may collect only against the employee, not the employer, under the agreements, if there is a default.

Abstract: An article of jewelry attaches to a garment which has a belt loop and a fly closure. The article includes a fly closure fastener adapted to be secured to the fly closure of the garment, a belt loop fastener having an opening and adapted to be positioned over the belt loop of the garment, a first elongate flexible member connecting the fly closure fastener and the belt loop fastener together, and a second elongate flexible member connecting an ornamental body or pouch to the belt loop fastener. The fly closure fastener is typically a closed loop, and may have an openable portion. The belt loop fastener may have a flat base portion and depending branches. In addition, the branches may converge to define a narrower opening to secure the fastener to the belt loop. The elongate flexible members may be provided by chains or strands.