Abstract: This invention discloses an encoding apparatus and a decoding apparatus for scalable video coding such that a non-scalable video decoder is usable for decoding a scalable video bit-stream comprising a base layer bit-stream and an enhancement layer bit-stream. In one embodiment, a source video frame is downscaled to give a downscaled video frame, which is then encoded into the base layer bit-stream. The difference between the source video frame and an up-scaled video frame reconstructed from the downscaled video frame in the base layer bit-stream yields a residual frame. The residual frame is partitioned into a number of residual sub-frames each having a resolution that is the downscaled video frame's resolution. The residual sub-frames are encoded into the enhancement layer bit-stream. Thereby, a non-scalable encoder is usable to encode both the downscaled video frame and the residual sub-frames, allowing both bit-streams to be decodable by employing only one non-scalable decoder.

Abstract: An approach is provided to selectively incorporate traveler feedback into a trip planning database. In the approach, a planned trip segment is retrieved with the planned trip segment including a planned start time, a planned start location, a planned mode of transportation, a planned destination location, and a predicted end time. Subsequently, actual trip segment data items are received. A validation routine checks whether the planned trip segment was actually traveled by comparing the retrieved planning trip segment with the actual trip segment data items. If the trip is successfully validated, then the trip planning database is updated using feedback received from the user. However, if validation was unsuccessful, then the trip planning database not updated with the user's travel feedback.

Abstract: A multimedia information system includes multiple devices and provides automatic transfer of content between devices when any two of the devices are collocated, i.e., brought within a physical proximity and relative orientation of each other that allows each to detect the other, for example, using infrared data devices. The multimedia, multi-device information system provides a seamless information space between the devices once they are within an appropriate proximity and relative orientation and operates across multiple devices—such as desktop computers, tablet PCs, PDAs and cell phones. Animation of the content transfer provides interactivity and user engagement with the system.

Abstract: A standard audit manual (SAM) rating matrix system includes a rating matrix model established base upon a standard audit manual by evaluating of internal controls to determine an internal control rating value, appraising a likelihood of potential errors and material misstatement to determine an error rating value, appraising a professional risk to determine a risk rating value, and appraising a materiality guideline to determine a guideline rating value. Therefore, an audit rating value is evaluated in accordance with said rating matrix model to implicate a level of likelihood of errors and a risk level of misstatement so as to derive an overall assessment and evaluation and forms bases of formulating an audit approach for each audit engagement.