Abstract: A courier management system for parcel pickup and delivery scheduling using a courier management web application run through a smart electronic device for the delivery of merchandise. Persons and businesses can request a driver to pick-up/deliver merchandise without resorting to traditional shipping options. A package is picked up by a driver and delivered the same day. Drivers have the option of choosing routes closest to the pick-up and delivery locations, and all information is processed through the courier management web application including pick-up and delivery locations, driver licensing information, and online payment for services.

Abstract: A system, method, and computer program product are provided for generating a graphical representation of a query optimization process. The method comprises the steps of parsing a search space log, presenting one or more evaluated access plans on an axis of a timeline, identifying a best access plan on the timeline, and outputting a graphical representation of the timeline. An additional system, method, and computer program product are provided for recording a query optimization process of a query optimizer.

Abstract: A system, method, and computer program product are provided for generating a graphical representation of a query optimization process. The method comprises the steps of parsing a search space log, presenting one or more evaluated access plans on an axis of a timeline, identifying a best access plan on the timeline, and outputting a graphical representation of the timeline. An additional system, method, and computer program product are provided for recording a query optimization process of a query optimizer.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for assisting a user in creating a process diagram according to a specific methodology. A template library includes a plurality of entities associated with the methodology. Each of the plurality of entities has an associated one of a plurality of entity categories. A user interface allows a user to insert entities from the library into the process diagram and insert connections between the entities to show logical relationships between the entities. A graphical engine generates an optimal arrangement of the entities within the process diagram according to at least one characteristic of a plurality of entities and at least one connector associated with the process diagram and at least one optimization criteria when a user inserts an entity or connection. The graphical engine is operative to animate a transition between an original arrangement and the optimal arrangement.

Abstract: Provided are methods for using nucleic acid sequences having two or more degenerately pairing nucleotides, each degenerate nucleotide having a partially overlapping set of complementarity, to reduce the number of hybridizing nucleotide sequences or probes used in biochemical and molecular biological operations having sequence specific hybridization. The method may be employed for various hybridization procedures with sequence specific hybridization, including sequencing methods measuring hybridization directly, and tagging by hybridization methods in which the sequence is determined by analyzing the pattern of tags that hybridize thereto, and hybridization dependent amplification methods.

Abstract: Provided are methods for using nucleic acid sequences having two or more degenerately pairing nucleotides, each degenerate nucleotide having a partially overlapping set of complementarity, to reduce the number of hybridizing nucleotide sequences or probes used in biochemical and molecular biological operations having sequence specific hybridization. The method may be employed for various hybridization procedures with sequence specific hybridization, including sequencing methods measuring hybridization directly, and tagging by hybridization methods in which the sequence is determined by analyzing the pattern of tags that hybridize thereto, and hybridization dependent amplification methods.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for displaying raised images. A plate moves along at least one axis of motion. The movement of the plate is operative to adjust respective positions associated with a plurality of pins along the axis of motion. A clutch mechanism operates in conjunction with the plate to position each of the plurality of pins at a desired position along the axis of motion. This deforms a display surface defined by the plurality of pins.

Abstract: A temporal address unit configured to receive a request for a substance of data; and a data switch controller configured to generate one or more temporal addresses in response to the request for the substance.

Abstract: A simplified three-way piezoelectric-actuated valve is described. The valve has a valve body having an internal valve cavity, a pair of generally opposed positioning members integral to the valve body, and first, second, and common ports. At least one of the ports has a valve seat and a passageway in communication with the valve seat, the seat and the passageway being integrally formed in the valve body. A piezoelectric actuator has first and second ends. The first end is secured within the valve cavity by the positioning members and has electrical contacts for providing an electric potential to control the position of the second end. The second end is capable of flexing between a first operating position in which the first port is closed and the second port is open, and a second operating position in which the first port is open and the second port is closed.

Abstract: A simplified two-way piezoelectric-actuated valve is described. The valve has a valve body having an internal valve cavity, a pair of generally opposed positioning members integral to the valve body, and first and second ports. At least one of the ports has a valve seat and a passageway in communication with the valve seat, the seat and the passageway being integrally formed in the valve body. A piezoelectric actuator has first and second ends. The first end is secured within the valve cavity by the positioning members and has electrical contacts for providing an electric potential to control the position of the second end. The second end is capable of flexing between a closed position with respect to the valve seat and an open position with respect to the valve seat. A three-way version of the valve is also described, as is a method of manufacturing such valves.