Abstract: An authorization system allows for cardholder-provided parameters to a personal authorization subsystem. The parameters can be selected by the cardholder to limit the authorizations that would otherwise be granted on the card. The parameters can indicate limits by frequency, dollar amount, merchant, geographic location, time of day, combinations thereof, or the like. Authorization for a given transaction, even where authorized by an issuer and a network operator, might be denied based on self-constraints set by the cardholder. In some variations, messages are sent to the cardholder based on constraints set by the cardholder and transactions might be approved and messaged, or denied and messaged.

Abstract: Methods and systems for controlling scheduling in a packet switching node in a network are provided which enable the scheduling of packets from different sources in an earliest deadline first order. The packets are assigned timestamp deadlines and placed in input queues. The timestamps are determined according to maximum delay or minimum throughput quality of service requirements specified for the packets. The packets are scheduled in the earliest deadline first order in an output packet store. The packet closest to its timestamp deadline is selected from the output packet store by using an index.

Abstract: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a group of enzymes that have been implicated in the pathological destruction of connective tissue and basement membranes. These zinc containing endopeptidases consist of several subsets of enzymes including collagenases, stromelysins and gelatinases. TNF-&agr; converting enzyme (TACE), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, catalyzes the formation of TNF-&agr; from membrane bound TNF-&agr; precursor protein. It is expected that small molecule inhibitors of MMPs and TACE therefore have the potential for treating a variety of disease states. The present invention provides low molecular weight, non-peptide inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and TNF-&agr; converting enzyme (TACE) for the treatment of arthritis, tumor metastasis, tissue ulceration, abnormal wound healing, periodontal disease, bone disease, diabetes (insulin resistance) and HIV infection.

Abstract: Discs for devices such as automatic swimming pool cleaners are disclosed. The discs includes slots (or other suitable apertures) positioned near their rimmed peripheries. The peripheries themselves, moreover, incorporate rounded edges or beads, and both the discs and associated footpads may include ramped segments facilitating movement over obstacles extending from swimming pool surfaces.

Abstract: A read/write head gimbal is provided including a tab or extension on the end of the gimbal portion which is attached to the head/slider assembly, forming this tab such that, when the gimbal is assembled to the load beam, the formed tab passes through an opening created for this purpose in the load beam, and extends beyond the opening far enough to prevent its returning through the opening after the gimbal and load beam are spot welded together. The tab and opening in the load beam are dimensioned so that during normal read/write operations, there is no contact between the tab and the sides of the opening in the load beam. The tab/opening arrangement is such that shock forces in the direction of travel away from the load beam, or in parallel with the surface of the load beam bracing the gimbal, will result in contact between the tab and the sides of the opening in the load beam, thus preventing excessive motion of the gimbal which could result in permanent deformation of the gimbal.

Abstract: A decorative static dissipative high pressure laminate having a plurality of consolidated thermosetting resin impregnated layers including a core and a decor surface layer to provide a surface resistance no greater than 2.times.10.sup.9. The core comprises at least one thermosetting resin impregnated paper core sheet and at least one special thermosetting resin impregnated core sheet of predominately paper fibers and a small quantity of stainless steel fibers irregularly distributed among the paper fibers.

Abstract: A composition for use in applying an alkaline earth metal element to an acidic sub soil. The composition includes the element in the form of a water-soluble salt or complex with fulvic acid in an aqueous medium. The fulvic acid is preferably a coal-derived fulvic acid.