Abstract: A manager agent access a grain hierarchy that represents a state for a computation that is to performed by a distributed processing system, wherein the grain hierarchy includes manager agent grains including metadata for manager agent processes that manage the performance of the computation by the distributed processing system, and worker agent grains including, for tasks to be performed by the distributed processing system, metadata for worker agents that each correspond to a subset of the plurality of data processors for performing the task. A manager agent performs processes defined by a manager agent grain to manage the computation by worker agents and storing, within the grain, metadata describing the manager agent process performed by the manager agent, and worker agents perform tasks assigned to the worker agents based on an assignment of a respective worker agent grain to the worker agent.

Abstract: A manager agent access a grain hierarchy that represents a state for a computation that is to performed by a distributed processing system, wherein the grain hierarchy includes manager agent grains including metadata for manager agent processes that manage the performance of the computation by the distributed processing system, and worker agent grains including, for tasks to be performed by the distributed processing system, metadata for worker agents that each correspond to a subset of the plurality of data processors for performing the task. A manager agent performs processes defined by a manager agent grain to manage the computation by worker agents and storing, within the grain, metadata describing the manager agent process performed by the manager agent, and worker agents perform tasks assigned to the worker agents based on an assignment of a respective worker agent grain to the worker agent.

Abstract: A method and a system for variable aggregation among large-scale data processing workers is discussed. Workers join groups and add variables to the groups. One worker is elected as the group leader. Workers post values to group variables, which are aggregated by the leader. The leader also announces the aggregated values. This variable aggregation allows for asynchronous communication among data processing workers.

Abstract: Aspects of the disclosure relate to learning the most useful backup tasks when processing a job in a distributed computing application. For example, training data may be generated by running a job and running backup tasks for some of the tasks for that job. List of features may be generated for each backup task at different times. A representative list of features may be labeled according to the backup tasks usefulness to the job. The lists and usefulness labels may be used to generate a model of usefulness. The model may then be used to evaluate the usefulness of the tasks for the next job. This information may then be used to schedule backup tasks for execution. In addition, lists of features for these backup tasks may be generated and then used to update the model in a continuous learning loop.

Abstract: Parallel data processing may include map and reduce processes. Map processes may include at least one input thread and at least one output thread. Input threads may apply map operations to produce key/value pairs from input data blocks. These pairs may be sent to internal shuffle units which distribute the pairs, sending specific pairs to particular output threads. Output threads may include multiblock accumulators to accumulate and/or multiblock combiners to combine values associated with common keys in the key/value pairs. Output threads can output intermediate pairs of keys and combined values. Likewise, reduce processes may access intermediate key/value pairs using multiple input threads. Reduce operations may be applied to the combined values associated with each key. Reduce processes may contain internal shuffle units that distributes key/value pairs and sends specific pairs to particular output threads. These threads then produce the final output.

Abstract: The invention relates to an offshore platform assembly which uses inclined legs. The improved assembly provides for the use of a floatable hull which has a plurality of cylindrical wells extending vertically through the hull body and a plurality of legs which are supported by the hull in transit and which support the hull in a working condition. Each chord of the supporting leg passes through a corresponding well formed in the hull and compresses a flexible guide positioned within the well of the hull to reduce the bending moment imposed on the leg during elevation of the hull, induced by the sagging of the hull or by severe storm. The flexible guide has a compressible member which moves laterally, to a limited distance, to absorb the bending moment. The compressible member can be a resilient sleeve, a spring or other laterally movable and adjustable member.

Abstract: A decorative simulated tree branch system for small animal enclosures made from thermoplastic. The branch is non-toxic, non-leaching, mite and contamination proof, washable, and waterproof, and a realistic representation of a natural tree branch or piece of drift wood. It is formed from a branch base portion and progressively smaller tributary segments which are approximately cylindrical in shape, and may taper as they extend toward the outer ends, as is the case with a natural branch. One preferred embodiment is well suited as a decorative ornament in fish tanks. A second preferred embodiment adapts the present invention for use as a natural looking perch in bird cages. A universal clip, capable of securely attaching the simulated branch to any type of bird cage bar may be provided with the bird perch embodiment.

Abstract: A shelf system which provides a decorative ornament for use inside of aquariums or terrariums. A rigid planar sheet is provided with a means for removable attachment to the inside surface of the wall of an aquarium at any height along the wall. The attachment means does not alter the ability of the wall to hold water in the aquarium while maintaining a secure attachment to the inner surface of the aquarium wall. The shelf may be provided with ornamentation, particularly a decorative texture on the outer edge and it may be provided with a supporting column.

Abstract: The present invention is a an aquarium air valve system and hanger unit for control of air entering an aquarium. The valve system has one or more valves thereon and is provided with a means for controlling the air flow from each valve. The valve system is mounted to the outer surface of the top wall of a hanger unit. The top wall is of adjustable size in order to allow secure fit over a variety of types of aquarium top frames. A valve system cover may also be provided in order to protect the valve system from accumulating metallics and debris.

Abstract: A filter cartridge for use in aquarium filtration systems having mechanical, chemical and biological filtration elements. The mechanical element forms the front wall of the filter cartridge and this is bonded around the outer border thereof to a back member. The back member may be rigid or semi-rigid.

Abstract: A habitat system for use in small animal enclosures providing desirable living space for underwater, amphibious and land dwelling animals. The habitat is formed from a wall type structure with one side which is essentially concave, thereby forming a gap space behind the wall. The habitat system is removeably attachable to the inner wall surface of the animal enclosure. Surface decoration may be provided on at least one wall of the habitat system, and various component parts may be intermeshed in a variety of ways in order to form multiple configurations.

Abstract: An assembly which is used with an undergravel aquarium filter in order to keep the passage between the bottom cavity under the filter and the uptake tube free from blockage due to gravel. The assembly is in the form of a collar which extends from the bottom plate of the undergravel filter at the point of insertion of the uptake tube. A ring, with a structure to prevent the passage of gravel through the central portion thereof is fitted within the collar. The ring may be removed from the collar to clear gravel out from the collar before insertion of the uptake tube.

Abstract: A maintenance system for aquariums which utilizes an electrically powered suction force and a lift tube made of flexible plastic tubing. The lift tube may be provided with one or more branch points to allow for simultaneous or independent powering of a variety of aquarium maintenance accessories. The branch points may be further provided with valves in order to allow for a wide range of control over the suction force provided to the individual branches of the lift tubing.

Abstract: A water filter for use inside of an aquarium which is characterized by the fact that filter cavity housing is removably attached to a sleeve unit which is in turn attached to the inside wall of the aquarium. When the filter material in the filter unit must be changed, the filter cavity housing may be removed from the sleeve unit which remains attached to the wall of the aquarium. The water current generating mechanism of the filter unit is also connected to the sleeve unit so that it does not have to be disconnected when the filter material is changed. The filter unit of the present invention is adapted for use with a cartridge type filter material in a preferred embodiment of the invention.