Abstract: Embodiments herein provide automated assessment of examination scripts, such as English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) examination scripts, written in response to prompts eliciting free text answers. In an embodiment, the task may be defined as discriminative preference ranking. Further, a system employing such methodology may be trained and tested on a corpus of manually-graded scripts. Embodiments herein, unlike extant solutions, are relatively prompt-insensitive and resistant to subversion, even if the operating principles are known. Embodiments may also detect scripts which are linguistically good but non-responsive to prompts such as memorized responses.

Abstract: A method, devices, computer program products and an internet service is disclosed for adapting a context model. In the method a media clip is received. Also sensor data captured at least partly when the media clip was captured is received. A context is derived using a context model based at least partly on the sensor data and an indication on the context is provided to a user by receiving a search query having at least one context-related search criterion, deriving a similarity between the context and the at least one context-related search criterion and causing at least a part of the media clip to be presented as a response to the search query. Feedback on the relevance of the context is received from the user. Based on the feedback, the context model may then be adapted.

Abstract: We describe a method of reinforcement learning for a subject system having multiple states and actions to move from one state to the next. Training data is generated by operating on the system with a succession of actions and used to train a second neural network. Target values for training the second neural network are derived from a first neural network which is generated by copying weights of the second neural network at intervals.

Abstract: A matching or pairing system and method for matching first and second entities having a greater likelihood of forming a successful pairing includes a trained machine learning system to provide heuristic values useful in determining a compatibility score for the pairing. During training of the machine learning system, a training example selection device can provide attribute values logically associated with entities engaged in historically successful pairings and a number of hypothetically successful pairings. The hypothetically successful pairings may be based at least in part on historically successful pairings where at least one attribute value logically associated with at least one entity in the pairing is varied, adjusted, or subjected to a loosened constraint. During run-time operation a screening device can screen unsuccessful pairings and forward potentially successful pairings that meet a threshold value to the neural network. The system can then determine a compatibility score for the pairing.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method for training an adaptive filter includes receiving, by a processor from a device, an input signal and a training reference signal and determining a correlation matrix in accordance with the input signal, the training reference signal, and a filter type. The method also includes determining a plurality of coefficients in accordance with the correlation matrix and adjusting the adaptive filter in accordance with the plurality of coefficients.

Abstract: A machine learning classifier based procurement system determines a price risk score, a supplier risk score, and an item risk score for bids based on classifications performed by a machine learning classifier. The scores are compared to respective thresholds to determine if any of the bids are associated with a high-risk procurement.

Abstract: Apparatus for routing batch data to two or more vendors is provided. The apparatus may include a receiver configured to receive a first message from a queue manager. The first message may include a first message topic. The first message may also include a pre-routing database location. The pre-routing database location may be a location in a database where batch data is stored. The first message may also include batch data characteristics. The batch data characteristics may define characteristics of the stored batch data. The apparatus may also include a transmitter configured to transmit to a rules database the batch data characteristics. The apparatus may further include a receiver configured to receive a routing rule from the rules database. The routing rule may be based at least in part on the batch data characteristics.

Abstract: The present invention provides a methodology and system for efficiently performing travel reservation queries and presenting significant search results to a user. A travel reservation search engine constructs a first query from one or more constraints. The first query has a threshold probability of returning a first set of search results that will lead to the purchase of a travel reservation. Additionally, if determined necessary by the search engine a second query is constructed from one or more constraints. The second query returns a second set of search results.

Abstract: Systems and methods used in human resource management systems. The method optimizes the assignment of permissions (e.g., ability to write to a database, ability to create a new account, etc.) to jobs. The method discovers relationships between jobs, duties and privileges by accessing an organization chart that relates a plurality of jobs, a plurality of specific duties to be performed within the purview of a given job, and a plurality of permissions for the respective duties of the job. The method then flattens the organization chart to enumerate the permissions inherited by the jobs. The method proceeds to mine the inherited permissions across the jobs to optimize the sets of permissions. The sets can be optimized (e.g., minimize number of sets, maximize coverage, etc.) and named so as to be conveniently assigned (e.g., by an HR person) to a job (e.g., in the case of a new employee).

Abstract: A business can use an improved workforce management system which includes capabilities for supporting intraday dynamic staffing. This dynamic staffing can include identifying wages which should be offered to workers to induce them to meet the business' needs, based on, for example, historical information stored in a database. Systems which include dynamic intraday staffing can be run using remote servers and interfaces accessed through various types of devices, such as internet enabled personal computers.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for intelligent batch processing of business events. An exemplary method includes accessing a business process having a plurality of events for execution, determining, using one or more hardware processors, a batch group for processing comprising at least one of the plurality of events, wherein the batch group is determined using a time delay for collecting the at least one of the plurality of events to determine the batch group, and submitting the batch group for processing the at least one of the plurality of events. The method may further include processing the batch group as a first transaction. Processing the first transaction may include determining a resource required by the at least one of the plurality of events and attempting to lock the resource for use during the processing the batch group.

Abstract: At least one model synchronization map table is built that facilitates navigation between elements of business objects of a business object model and corresponding elements of an extensible markup language (XML) schema definition-based (XSD-based) model. The XSD-based model includes at least one XML schema and is generated from the business object model. The business object model and the XSD-based model are displayed in a dual-view editor. The dual-view editor enables a user to toggle between and independently edit the business object model and the XSD-based model. In response to independent edits made to one of the XSD-based model and the business object model within the dual-view editor, the elements of the business object model are automatically synchronized with the corresponding elements of the XSD-based model using the at least one model synchronization map table.

Abstract: Various embodiments of present invention provide systems, methods, and computer-program products containing executable code for processing a package for shipping with a common carrier. Various embodiments include a wireless computing device that may be one of several types of devices such as smartphones, mobile telephones, mobile computers, portable digital assistants, laptop computers, gaming devices, electronic tablets, or other types of similar devices. In particular embodiments, executable code is installed on the wireless computing device that, when executed, causes the device to perform certain functionality. For instance, in particular embodiments, the wireless computing device records an image of a shipping form being placed on a package, verifies the image is suitable for analysis and transmission, and extracts a tracking number from the image.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods, media and code for routing a mail item are provided. A conveyor in mechanical communication with a mail item registration station may include a processor for registering a first part of the mail item. The processor may: determine that: the first part is a payment part; and a second part that corresponds to the first part is exceptional; identify a destination that corresponds to the first part; and route the first part to the destination along with an indication corresponding to the missing second part.

Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for the automated delivery of goods form one to another using a robotic tug and accompanying cart. A computer within the tug or cart stores an electronic map of the building floor plan and intended paths for the tug to take when traversing from one location to the next. During the delivery, a variety of different sensors and scanners gather data that is used to avoid obstacles and/or adjust the movement of the tug in order to more closely follow the intended path. The system preferably includes both wired and wireless networks that allow one or more tugs to communicate with a tug base station, a primary network located at the site of the delivery and a remote host center that monitors the status and data collected by the tugs.

Abstract: A system and method for delivering a product such as a pharmacy bottle from a conveyor system to a delivery container via a delivery chute. A sensor is placed at a top opening of the chute to sense for product in the chute area and to provide instructions to complete the delivery order if the chute area is clear.

Abstract: A method, system and computer program product for allowing a user to easily collaborate with users from different organizations. In response to authenticating the user to access the environment of the user's home organization, a list of outside organizations where the user has visitor status is obtained. Outside organization(s) in the list of outside organizations that have content to be viewed by the user are identified. An object associated with the user's home organization, objects associated with the outside organizations where the user has visitor status as well as indications (e.g., star) associated with those outside organizations that have content to be shared with the user are displayed on the user interface of the user's computing device. In this manner, the user will be able to collaborate with an outside organization that has content to be shared in response to selecting the object associated with the outside organization.

Abstract: According to embodiments described in the specification, a method, system and apparatus for generating notification signals are provided. The method includes storing an identifier of a slave device in a memory of a master device; detecting, at a processor interconnected with the memory, a notification message via execution of a notification application; in response to detecting the notification message, retrieving the slave device identifier and transmitting an instruction message to the slave device, the instruction message including an identifier of the notification message and an alert parameter; and generating an alert via an output device interconnected with the processor according to the alert parameter.

Abstract: Access to calendar data indicating the state of time blocks is varied according to visibility conditions associated with at least some of the time blocks. Parameters for a meeting are used to determine a state in which to indicate a block of time, which may conflict with the meeting. The state may be either an occupied or unoccupied state.

Abstract: A computing device with efficient cooling is provided. The computing device includes a housing with a plurality of components disposed therein. The components can include a pair of fan assemblies, a funnel assembly, and a heat sink assembly. The funnel assembly can direct the air drawn into the housing through a longitudinal channel define in the heat sink assembly and can direct the air across an exterior portion of the heat sink assembly, allowing for efficient cooling of the processors affixed to an exterior of the heat sink assembly.

Abstract: A block chain may be used to certify the existence, integrity, and/or ownership of a file or communication. The present disclosure describes receiving a plurality of data units; hashing the plurality of data units to provide a plurality of hashes, individual hashes being unique cryptographic identifiers of corresponding data units such that an individual hash verifiably relates to a corresponding data unit and the individual hashes cannot be used by themselves to obtain corresponding data units; temporarily storing the hashes; generating a first cryptographic structure based on the plurality of hashes; publishing the first cryptographic structure on the block chain; providing proofs associated with individual ones of the plurality of data units that allow independent verification that the data units are certified; and verifying certification of data units based on roots of reconstructed cryptographic structures.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and computer-readable storage media for redeeming a closed loop card/code funded with an amount of money. The system receives, at a merchant, an indication from a consumer of a desire to sell a closed loop account not issued by the merchant and receives a confirmation, via a computing device, of an amount of money in the closed loop account. The system presents the consumer with an offer to buy the closed loop account and receives from the consumer an acceptance of the offer. The system processes the closed loop account to yield a processed closed loop account such as by transferring the account to one of the merchant and an entity and applies a benefit to the consumer based on the processed closed loop account.

Abstract: A banking system controlled responsive to data bearing records includes a card reader that can read identifying data from user cards. The system can authorize operation of an automated banking machine responsive to the read data. The system can provide an electronic transaction receipt to the machine user. A bank computer is operable to submit the receipt to a system address on record with the bank. The address can correspond to an e-mail address, phone number, or other address associated with an account involved in the transaction. The receipt can also include an image associated with the transaction. The system cal also operate to image a check deposited at the machine, and then electronically send the image to the check maker, the payee, and/or a clearinghouse.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed which facilitate transfer of licenses corresponding to hosted services. Customers may purchase licenses to services implemented by a hosted computing environment. Thereafter, customers may elect to transfer all or a portion of that license to a second customer. In some embodiments, a customer may transfer the entirety of their service license. In other embodiments, a customer may transfer only a portion of their service license. In still more embodiments, a customer may temporarily transfer a license. For example, a customer may transfer a license only when they are not using the license.

Abstract: A remote ordering system is provided using an electronic menu having a series of input devices associated with various menu items, and a wireless transmitter to send selected menu items to a receiving device for processing. A display to show selected menu items, an alpha-numeric keyboard, a non-cash payment device, and a printer for receipts are also contemplated for increased functionality. The menu may be remotely updated to reflect the customer's preferences or a change to the menu choices.

Abstract: A system and method to use quick response (QR) codes encoded with merchant website t identification codes and session GUID to register a user or code scanner with a merchant server, login the user or code scanner with the merchant server, and complete a purchase of an item or service within a virtual shopping cart of the merchant server. A code scanner can scan a QR code displayed on a device connected to the internet. An application server can receive an identification code from the code scanner and then transmit data indicating form fields to be filled in on a merchant webpage. A user profile can include data regarding the user and a payment instrument. The user profile data can prepopulate the form fields and the form field data can be transmitted to the merchant server to use for logging in the user and completing the purchase.

Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment, a reading apparatus, arranged at a position between an operator and a customer who stand in face to face manner, comprises a main body having an opening on a surface thereof facing the operator, a first image capturing section for operator, housed in the main body, configured to photograph a commodity through the opening of the main body to capture an image of the commodity, and a second image capturing section for customer, arranged on the main body, configured to photograph an object held by the customer to capture an image of the object.

Abstract: A system and method to use quick response (QR) codes encoded with merchant website identification codes and session GUID to register a user or code scanner with a merchant server, login the user or code scanner with the merchant server, and complete a purchase of an item or service within a virtual shopping cart of the merchant server. A code scanner can scan a QR code displayed on a device connected to the internet. An application server can receive an identification code from the code scanner and then transmit data indicating form fields to be filled in on a merchant webpage. A user profile can include data regarding the user and a payment instrument. The user profile data can prepopulate the form fields and the form field data can be transmitted to the merchant server to use for logging in the user and completing the purchase.

Abstract: Selecting payment instruments for proxy card transactions comprises associating a plurality of financial accounts with a user proxy account; establishing a model for the user account based on configuration data received from a user, the model comprising identification of a particular financial account to use as a backing instrument for a transaction; receiving data associated with a pending transaction regarding the pending transaction; identifying a financial account to use as a backing instrument for the pending transaction based on a comparison of the model with the pending transaction data; receiving a selection of an alternate financial account to use instead of the identified financial account as the backing instrument; modifying the model account based on the selection of the alternate financial account and the data associated with the pending transaction; and utilizing the modified model in a subsequent selection of a financial account for a subsequent transaction.

Abstract: A system and method allows users to make purchases by charging or funding a prepaid debit card with their cell phone accounts by simulating a user roaming with their mobile device.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a transaction card bearing data and having an output interface capable of transmitting the data, a card reader having an input interface enabled to accept the data from the output interface of the transaction card, conversion circuitry converting the card data to an analog modulated signal, and an output pin from the card reader adapted to engage in a microphone port of a computerized appliance, the output pin providing the analog modulated signal to the port, and thence to the computerized appliance.

Abstract: A kiosk gift card system and method for purchasing and redeeming gift cards is disclosed. The system/method includes a gift card distribution kiosk that provides a user with access to a multitude of different forms of gift cards that may be purchased and printed onto customizable gift card stock. The kiosk includes a kiosk processor interface, a gift card dispenser, a card reader, and gift card management server connected to a network. The gift card management server, through the kiosk processor interface, provides vendor options to users to select and pay via the card reader. The kiosk may be used to redeem unused user gift cards for a reduced value user selected gift card, reduced cash value, full value store card, rewards points, bank debit, and/or an electronic code (eCode) towards online user purchases.

Abstract: Systems and methods for product purchase and registration are disclosed. One disclosed method includes the steps of capturing a product identifier, the product identifier identifying a product; transmitting the product identifier to a first remote server; responsive to transmitting the product identifier, receiving a vendor identification number (VIN), the VIN based on the product identifier; providing the VIN to a point-of-sale (POS) device; and activating the product.

Abstract: A hybrid device includes a personal digital key (PDK) and a receiver-decoder circuit (RDC). The PDK and RDC of the hybrid device are coupled for communication with each other. In one embodiment, the hybrid device also provides a physical interconnect for connecting to other devices to send and receive control signals and data, and receive power. The hybrid device operates in one of several modes including, PDK only, RDC only, or PDK and RDC. This allows a variety of system configurations for mixed operation including: PDK/RDC, RDC/RDC or PDK/PDK. The present invention also includes a number of system configurations for use of the hybrid device including: use of the hybrid device in a cell phone; simultaneous use of the PDK and the RDC functionality of hybrid device; use of multiple links of hybrid device to generate an authorization signal, use of multiple PDK links to the hybrid device to generate an authorization signal; and use of the hybrid device for authorization inheritance.

Abstract: A system for facilitating secure transactions between a purchaser and a vendor is provided. The system might include a purchaser token data capture device for reading token data into the system, an encryption module for encrypting the token data and a network based vendor input form for communicating the encrypted token data to the vendor. The system might further include a purchaser terminal for routing the encrypted token data to a transaction processing network or a vendor for providing payment and confirmation to the vendor of an authorized token.

Abstract: A method for transmitting data over a voice channel by transcoding a bit of the data stream into two bits, and converting each of such two bits into a value of a parameter of a curve of a sound frequency that can be carried on the voice channel. At the receiving end of the voice channel, the values of the parameters of the curve are reconverted into bits, and the pairs of bits are transcoded back into the bit of the data stream.

Abstract: A method and system for utilizing an instant messaging environment. An instant messaging client is created in association with each respective end user of at least two end users. Each instant messaging client in association with its respective end user includes at least two zones. Each zone corresponds exclusively to a unique end user. Each zone includes at least two textboxes contiguously distributed within each zone. The at least two zones of each instant messaging client is configured to include a write-only zone specific to the respective end user and a read-only zone specific to each end user of all other end users exclusive of the respective end user. Each instant messaging client is provided to each respective end user of the at least two end users.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for performing an authentication (and a system for performing the method), in conjunction with a transaction, utilizing a primary channel and a secondary channel. The method may include an authenticating entity, such as a bank, (1) receiving from a customer primary authentication information via a primary channel; (2) the authenticating entity processing the primary authentication information, and retrieving customer information based on the primary authentication information; (3) the authenticating entity transmitting secondary authentication information to the customer via a secondary channel, the secondary channel being different than the primary channel; (4) the authenticating entity receiving from the customer at least a portion of the secondary authentication information; and (5) the authenticating entity performing authentication processing on the secondary authentication information received from the customer.

Abstract: A user having an account with a payment provider receives an unregistered payment card that is associated with the payment provider, and that includes a magnetic strip encoded with a number unique to the card and a machine readable code such as a QR/barcode embossed thereon. The user may then open an application on the user's mobile device to capture the number associated with the card by, for example, scanning the QR/barcode, capturing an image of the number, speaking the number into the device, or manually entering the number into the user's device. The user may also authenticate with the payment provider by entering login credentials. The user may then confirm a request to link the number of the card with the user's payment provider account, which activates and links the card to the user account so that the user can immediately use the card for purchases.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for sorting seller listings or advertisements of a seller network. In one embodiment, a method includes: determining an indicator of potential revenue for a first party from price information of a list of entities, wherein revenue generated according to the price information of at least some of the list of entities is to be split among a plurality of parties; and, sorting the list of entities into a first list based at least partially on the indicator of potential revenue.

Abstract: A method including interacting with a promotion code provider programmatically, providing a promotion code to a validation function of the promotion code provider, and evaluating a response from the promotion code provider. The act of interacting with a promotion code provider can include controlling an interface that simulates user actions, such as but not limited to controlling an in-memory web browser through an API, where the API provides a set of functions for simulating user actions. Accordingly, the method can be used to quickly and easily determine whether one or more promotion codes, such as online coupons, are valid.

Abstract: A method for isolating analytics logic from content creation is a rich Internet application. In an embodiment, a method for isolating analytics tracking logic comprises receiving a rich Internet application, identifying a plurality of event elements within the content separate from content creation, tagging the identified plurality of event elements, wherein the event elements are tagged in isolation of content creation, and storing the content including the tagged event elements. The set of tagged event elements may be modified in isolation of content creation.

Abstract: A portable web widget for distribution of multimedia content over a computer communications network, the web widget adapted for viral distribution and execution in a web browser on a client device wherein the widget includes a content retrieval component communicatively coupled to an application server over the computer communications network, the content retrieval component configured to retrieve one or more multimedia display files and metadata into an embedded electronic commerce store in the web widget after it enters an active operational mode, the widget also including a content preview component configured to enable a streamed execution of a portion of the multimedia content files associated with each of the multimedia display files from a multimedia content distribution system executing on the application server, and a transaction processing component operative to execute and complete a commercial transaction in the embedded electronic commerce store pertaining to the multimedia content files.

Abstract: In one aspect, a computing apparatus is configured to: store transaction data recording transactions processed by a transaction handler; organize third party data according to community, where the third party data includes first data received from a first plurality of entities of a first community and second data received from a second plurality of entities of a second community; and responsive to a request from a merchant in the second community, present an offer of the merchant in the second community to users identified via the transaction data and the first data received from the first plurality of entities of the first community. In one embodiment, the first data provides permission from the merchant in the first community to allow the merchant in the second community to use intelligence information of the first community to identify users for targeting offers from the merchant in the second community.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus for implementing at least one virtual agent. In some embodiments, the at least one virtual agent is programmed to analyze first information regarding a first person; analyze second information regarding a second person different from the first person; and make a joint recommendation for a plurality of persons based at least in part on the first and second information, wherein the plurality of persons comprises the first person and the second person.

Abstract: A method, apparatus and computer program product are provided for generating and utilizing a user pattern profile. In this regard, the user pattern profile can include information regarding service selections made on a user node and movements of a user. The generated user pattern profile can compared to a threshold profile, and based on the results of the comparison, an action can be undertaken.

Abstract: Event records can include session data representing a particular consumer and a particular standard period of time, and can include station identification information indicating a media station to which the consumer was tuned during standard period of time. Records can be designated as overlapping event records if multiple event records represent the same consumer and the same period of time, but identify different media stations, and at least some overlapping event records can be eliminated from consideration before determining audience migration information. Audience migration information, including tune-ins and tune-outs, can be determined based on whether or not a consumer has multiple event records showing different media stations at adjacent times. The audience migration information can then be transmitted to an end-user machine for display.

Abstract: A computerized method includes receiving, at an online wagering game establishment and from a number of persons, a link that comprises a request to play an electronic scratch card. The method includes presenting for play the electronic scratch card to the number of persons. The method includes dynamically assigning by the online wagering game establishment, results of the play of the electronic scratch card by the number of players, wherein the results comprise at least one of a loss or a win. The win comprises a bonus monetary amount. The bonus monetary amount is usable within the online wagering game establishment and non-usable external to the online wagering game establishment. The method includes outputting the results of the play of the electronic scratch card to the number of persons.

Abstract: Accentuating terms of interest in an advertisement to be served in an interactive environment. Such terms of interest can be determined from information in a request for the advertisement. Such ad request information may include query information, geolocation information, etc. In the context of text-based ads, accentuation may include bolding the term(s), underlining the term(s), increasing the font size of the term(s), coloring the font of the term(s), shading the font of the term(s), flashing the text of the term(s), etc. Such accentuation helps users to quickly identify how an advertisement is related to what they are looking for. For example, in the context of a search engine which returns search results, as well as multiple text-based ads, users viewing a search result page in response to their query can quickly scan such a search result page for relevant information. This helps to improve the performance of ads, particularly if advertisers wordsmith their advertisements with care.

Abstract: A vertically integrated retail system includes an embedded storefront adapted to operate in a distributed manner through independent units embedded in different web sites or content in other host applications. Each unit of the embedded storefront enables a user to purchase goods, services, or other entities without leaving the host application. The units are modules that may be inserted into a web page, application, game, or other electronic media. Units can include product content such as video or animation, images, text, audio, music, or any other type of interactive or non-interactive electronic content. A user may receive virtual currency, virtual goods (such as virtual items or enhancements within a game application), or other rewards for completing transactions using the unit in the host application. Units may be embedded in host content via hyperlinks included in the content or through an application programming interface of a host content provider.