Abstract: An administrator node (130) adjusts a trustworthy-measure associated with nodes (110) that are suspected of unauthorized modifications of content material. The original provider of the content material to a network binds an identifying code to it. Upon receiving the material from a source node (110), a target node (120) computes an associated code for the received material. If the computed code and the identifying code differ, the material is determined to be modified, and a discrepancy report is submitted to the administrator node (130). The administrator node (130) effects a penalty against the root source if the modification is confirmed; or against the target node (120) if the discrepancy report is unfounded. The penalties include downgrading of the trustworthiness-measure associated with each node, and these trustworthiness-measures are available for use by potential target nodes in their selection of preferred source nodes.

Abstract: A computer system and computer-implemented method for controlling inventory of vendors at one level of a part distribution chain. The system includes a computer programmed with software for generating order data in response to reference data indicative of sales, inventory, demographics, and/or market characteristics of or pertaining to at least two vendors at the same distribution level. The order data is indicative of one or more of a recommended inventory increase transaction (such as a reorder by a vendor of a sold part); an inventory reduction transaction (such as a return of one or more parts in stock at the vendor); and a recommended stocking level of one or more parts by the vendor. When the computer is operated by personnel of a first vendor, it receives reference data concerning at least one other vendor at the same distribution level (in addition to processing reference data concerning the first vendor.