Abstract: For a time-series, a baseline error value is reduced to compute a target forecast error value by maximizing a net benefit value of a forecasted value of the time-series. For each forecasting model in a set of models, a corresponding model error value related to the time-series is computed. From the set, a subset of models is selected where each model in the subset has a cost that will produce a positive value for the net benefit. A selected model from the subset is associated with the time-series such that a model error value of the selected model is at most equal to the target forecast error. The time-series is forecasted using the selected model such that the forecasted value has an error of less than the baseline error at a future time, and the forecasted value produces a positive net benefit at the future time.

Abstract: For a time-series, a baseline error value is reduced to compute a target forecast error value by maximizing a net benefit value of a forecasted value of the time-series. For each forecasting model in a set of models, a corresponding model error value related to the time-series is computed. From the set, a subset of models is selected where each model in the subset has a cost that will produce a positive value for the net benefit. A selected model from the subset is associated with the time-series such that a model error value of the selected model is at most equal to the target forecast error. The time-series is forecasted using the selected model such that the forecasted value has an error of less than the baseline error at a future time, and the forecasted value produces a positive net benefit at the future time.

Abstract: A drill bit for drilling a wellbore, the drill bit having a cutter which has tungsten carbide inserts and a spear point. The spear point has a neck that joins a smooth portion of the cutter and blades that extend from the neck and converge to an apex. The blades define valleys or spaces between them. A layer of hardfacing is applied to the entire spear point including the interim spaces and the neck.

Abstract: A leak-proof closure (10) for dispensing liquid beverages from a container. The closure (10) contains a outlet passage (14) which is open at both ends. Within outlet passage (14) there is a membrane (13) which denies communication between the interior of the container and the flow opening (15). When external suction is applied to the end of outlet passage (14), membrane (13) sealingly disengages from circumferential seal member (12). This allows the contained beverage to egress through the flow opening (15). When the external suction is removed, membrane (13) automatically sealingly engages with circumferential seal member (12).

Abstract: A leak-proof closure (10) for dispensing liquid from a container (12). The closure (10) contains a recessed channel (11) which forms an outlet passage (13) when the closure (10) is attached to the container (12). When the container (12) is overturned, the liquid will begin to flow into the outlet passage (13) at the fluid entrance (15). The displacement of the liquid from the container (12) will create a partial vacuum in the container (12). This partial vacuum will prevent the liquid from reaching the fluid exit (14), thus it will not leak. When the fluid exit (14) is inserted into the user's mouth and suction is applied, the liquid in the container (12) will flow into the fluid entrance (15), through the outlet passage (13), out of the fluid exit (14), and into the user's mouth.

Abstract: A spill-proof closure for containers used in dispensing liquid beverages. The closure has a spout containing a thin membrane at or near the upper end. The thin membrane includes a through slit which remains closed except when external suction is applied during normal drinking.

Abstract: A spill-proof closure for containers used in dispensing liquid beverages. The closure contains an opening for delivery of a contained beverage. The closure also includes a sealing member and a deflectable member. Together these parts form a flow control valve which is normally closed, but opens when external lip pressure is applied during normal drinking.