Abstract: A database replication function for a local object and one or more destination objects, where one or more local applications make requests to the source objects is disclosed. A request logging function records requests sent by the one or more local applications into a memory log. An update propagation function determines which source object states must be propagated to one or more destination objects based on information quality of service accuracy requirements.

Abstract: A method for determining data integrity for a set-oriented data store provides an integrity check mechanism within an application framework that provides object check values for one or more data objects in the set-oriented data store. The integrity check mechanism stores one or more predicate check values corresponding to predefined query predicates against the set-oriented data store, with each stored predicate check value updated as the set-oriented data store is updated such that the stored predicate check value is consistent with the object check values of all of the data objects that satisfy the corresponding predefined query predicate. When a query is submitted to the set-oriented data store, the integrity check mechanism verifies the integrity of a query result set by comparing one or more of the previously-stored predicate check values for the submitted query with corresponding predicate check values determined from the query result set.

Abstract: A method of determining a solution to a problem is provided. The method comprises defining a problem graphically using an entity-relationship modeling notation comprising at least one entity, at least one attribute, and at least one relationship, wherein the at least one entity and the at least on relationship are capable of being designated as a decision element. The method also comprises mapping the graphical modeling notation to algebraic form, and passing the algebraic form to a mathematical solver adapted to solve the algebraic form of the problem.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for setting policy goals and using the policy goals to assist in controlling a process or system are disclosed. The policy goals preferably codify some or all of an organization's policy goals for the operation of the process or system. The policy goals preferably express what an organization considers a good (or bad) solution and what level of goodness (or badness) the situation or solution incurs given a particular context. The operation of the process or system can then be evaluated using the predefined policy goals.

Abstract: A system of managing changes in the states of interrelated objects provides for synchronization of change notifications transferred between source and target objects. In one embodiment, target objects subscribe to state changes in source objects and the change notifications are provided with unique temporal state identifiers such as a system time stamp or an assigned number to provide a temporal dimension and allow synchronization of the notifications at the target object. The state changes are actually in the form of methods applied to the source, and equivalent or identical methods are then applied to the target. A log of change notifications is provided, and each of the notifications are applied to the target object to synchronize it with relevant source objects to which it is dependent upon and to a particular selected point in time.

Abstract: A golf practice hole with a variable diameter rim provides a flexible material positioned over a series of radially-movable supports that each define a portion of an edge or rim of a hole. The flexible material is typically provided with expansion areas that can include slits that define separate flaps of material. The flaps of material are tensioned beneath the movable supports to maintain the flaps in engagement with the supports. As the supports are moved radially-inwardly and radially-outwardly, the material follows the supports and defines a continuous surface above the rim throughout a range of movement of the supports. The range of movement defines a corresponding range of hole rim diameters. The flexible surface remains free of discontinuities and breaks despite diametral changes in the rim and provides an improved playing surface.