Abstract: A business method for providing an emissions trading approach value to products and services that provide active cooling of the Earth that provides a sustainable means for global cooling strategies to achieve commercial value, in order to drive development and real-world application of these approaches, comprising the steps of manufacturing a light-scattering nanoparticle (527), deploying the stratospheric nanoparticles for reducing solar radiation incident on the Earth (537), receiving Carbon Counterbalance Credits in exchange for the local, national, regional, or international benefits derived from said deployment (547), and derives income from selling said credits in order to create a sustainable and viable business (557). Systems, devices, and agents for deployment in accordance with the business method are also disclosed.

Abstract: A market-targeted patent application of enhanced commercial effectiveness and value, as well as methods for preparing the market-targeted patent application using invention market analysis, is disclosed. In preparing a patent application, invention market analysis of a proposed invention is used, in addition to the invention disclosure of the proposed invention, so as to target the patent application towards the invention's primary and most promising markets. Invention market analysis can affect patent strategy, invention description, patent claims, and/or other key aspects of a patent application, also potentially reshaping the invention's scope in the process. In some embodiments, the proposed invention is clarified by prior art analysis, and/or defined by standard claims. In key embodiments, market-targeted claims are drafted in light of invention market analysis, thereby serving as the foundation for a market-targeted patent application.

Abstract: Attraction attendance levels experienced by a customer are dynamically managed as a function of customer admission pricing. A customer is offered an opportunity to pay a regular admission fee or a higher premium admission fee for admission to a facility with one or more attractions, wherein the customer is provided with information as to an amount of reduced queue loading that will be achieved by the customer if the customer pays the premium admission fee. Queue loading is monitored, and a queue load diminishment relative to an expected queue load is identified, the amount of reduced queue loading achievable by the customer through paying the premium admission fee updated accordingly. The customer is notified of the updated amount of reduced queue loading achievable through paying the premium admission fee as a function of customer metadata.

Abstract: The automated bid ask spread negotiations method is a computer process and system for negotiating transactions combining a bargain sale strategy with the normal negotiating process. The system effectively adds a bonus to the package of benefits, thereby closing the gap from a previous nominal price asked and bid, but payable to a charity of the seller's choice, over a long term and at a favorable rate of interest, at the same time, providing a tax deduction for the seller, as well as an interest deduction for the buyer of the asset or services.

Abstract: A method of enforcing a foreign patent to stop foreign infringement is provided. The method includes a holder of a foreign patent suing an entity in a state court for infringing a foreign patent through its activities in the country which issued the foreign patent. Certain embodiments minimize negative effects on comity by suing the infringing entity in that entity's state of incorporation. In some embodiments, the foreign patent holder sues for infringement of multiple foreign patents against a single entity in the same state court case. In some embodiments, the foreign patent holder may sue the infringing entity in the Delaware Court of Chancery.

Abstract: We describe a method to determine effectiveness of a compound or composition in treatment of celiac disease or gluten intolerance, the method comprising: administration of the compound or composition to one or more human patients who were on a gluten-free diet for 10 years or less, preferably 6 years or less; challenge with gluten of the one or more human patients who were administered the compound or composition; and determining whether there is a change in condition of celiac disease or gluten intolerance of the one or more patients that results from administration of the compound or composition and challenge with gluten; whereby no significant change in condition indicates that the compound or composition would be effective in treating celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Abstract: Check fraud protection method in which a customer is automatically enrolled in a check fraud protection service without separately subscribing to the service. In the event of fraudulent activity, the customer requests reimbursement from the financial institution and retains the exclusive right of recovery from a financial institution. The check fraud service provider serves as an advisor to the customer who retains exclusive right of recovery at all times. If customer is not fully compensated by the financial institution, the difference is paid to the customer by the check fraud protection service provider or insurer thereof, and new checks for a new checking account are provided to the customer free of charge.

Abstract: Determining vectors for a set of project features and determining an indication of health of some aspect of the project using a classifier trained for the set of project features is useful in assessing project health. Classifiers can be trained for such methods by determining a set of training elements for one or more projects of a data set, and training the classifier using the set of training elements. Each training element comprises a feature vector for a particular project at a particular time interval and a health classification deemed to be correct for that particular project at that particular time interval.

Abstract: Methods of testing and certifying a package for transport to a customer and use by a customer, and of correcting packaging failures due to transport and use in the field. A package such as, for example, a bulk composite constructed package for shipping welding material product, is tested according to a selected testing protocol. The test results are analyzed and packaging attributes of the package are transformed based on the analyzed test results if the tested package fails any aspect of the testing protocol. Packaging attributes that may be transformed include packaging component design, packaging markings, packaging handling instructions, packaging component manufacturing procedures, packaging component testing procedures, and packaging assembly procedures. Once the package passes all aspects of the testing protocol, customer certification documentation is generated.

Abstract: Check fraud protection method in which customer is automatically enrolled in check fraud protection service without separately subscribing to the service. In the event of fraudulent activity, customer requests compensation from financial institution and retains the exclusive right of recovery from financial institution. If customer is not fully compensated by financial institution, the difference is paid to customer by service provider or an insurer thereof, and new checks for a new checking account are provided to customer free of charge. A custody indicator may also be used to determine chain of custody data that can be used to track the source of fraudulent activity if the fraud was perpetrated by someone involved in the check printing or delivery process, and for this purpose, a check order or individual checks may have respective indicators such as sequential serial numbers.

Abstract: An improved Board of Trade is disclosed. The Board is of the type which promulgates a code of conduct for its members. The improvement comprises including, in the code: standards of conduct regarding activity in space; and; on the part of any member having control of a rocket for entering space, an obligation to refrain from assisting any person in activity in violation of the standards of conduct regarding activity in space. Also disclosed is a method for promoting the responsible exploitation of space. The method comprises the steps of: promulgating a code of conduct regarding space activity; including in the code an obligation to sanction persons who violate the code; including in the code an obligation to refrain from assisting any person in activity violating the code; and including in the code an obligation to refrain from assisting any person in space-related activities who refuses to be code bound.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods may operate to receive reservation requests for travel reservations associated with a common carrier. Responsive to receiving a request, an access control code to control access to a lockable compartment within a vehicle designated to provide transportation associated with the travel reservation may be generated. The compartment may be a luggage compartment, such as an overhead bin on an airplane. The code may be transmitted to a mobile device carried by the passenger associated with the reservation, and used to provide lockable access to the compartment. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for matching a consumer and a brand marketing organization. The method includes the steps of receiving from a consumer, a desired set of characteristics associated with content to be received from a brand marketing organization, presenting the desired set of characteristics indicated by the consumer to the brand marketing organization, and receiving from the brand marketing organization an indication of a desire to present content to the consumer in accordance with the presented desired set of characteristics. After acceptance, the content is received from the brand marketing organization and is presented to the consumer in accordance with the desired set of characteristics.

Abstract: A faucet system including: a first set of faucet components including at least a water regulating device and a water dispensing device, wherein the water regulating device and the water dispensing device include advertising indicia of a first theme; a second set of faucet components including at least a water regulating device and a water dispensing device, wherein the water regulating device and the water wherein the first and second set of faucet components are configured to be interchangeably connected to a base.

Abstract: A method for catering an aircraft includes the steps of assembling products for multiple aircraft in a distribution center, segregating such products by specific aircraft, loading onto a delivery vehicle products for catering to a specific aircraft, and catering such products to such specific aircraft, the delivery vehicle containing only products for catering to one specific aircraft and not products for catering to multiple aircraft.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for auctioning the time of an individual. The method includes the steps of receiving from an individual a desired set of characteristics. The desired set of characteristics includes at least an indication of one or more periods of time during which the individual is available to receive content, a minimum charge for receiving the content, and a method by which the individual wishes to receive the content. The desired set of characteristics indicated by the individual is presented in the form of an auction. A bid is received from one or more bidder to present content to the individual in accordance with the desired set of characteristics. An agreement n received from the individual to receive the presented content at the bid price.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a system and method for electronically managing an address database such as AMS, and more particularly a system and method for automatically managing an address database through the use of a web-based application. Moreover, embodiments of the invention manage an address database, such as AMS, by comparing data in the address database with data collected from mailpieces during sorting operations.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for soliciting commonly acquainted prospects into a hierarchal multi-level marketing (MLM) structure by collecting contact information of personal contacts from MLM members already incorporated, and soliciting those personal contacts using a third-party solicitor to build a commission downline for current members who are reluctant, unwilling or inefficient at soliciting their own personal contacts.

Abstract: A method for obtaining a fingerprint and for making an ornamental article having the fingerprint includes sending a kit to a customer including a photo reactive medium and receptor, so that a person can create a fingerprint on the receptor. The fingerprint is received from the customer after the fingerprint is created using the photo reactive medium and receptor. Using the photo reactive medium and receptor allows the fingerprint to be easily formed and sufficiently set, with a high amount of detail and accuracy. Further, the photo reactive medium and receptor can allow for a printed created to not be compromised between the time the fingerprint is made and the time the fingerprint is received by the ornamental article manufacturer.

Abstract: In a music information database, music information where music pieces and impression words representing impressions of the music pieces and usable as search words when any of the music pieces is to be searched for is registered for a plurality of music pieces. Information collection section collects, from among various information being provided by information source sites, information usable as music-piece-related search words. Registration section registers the words usable as music-piece-related search words, collected by the information collection section, into the database in association with particular music pieces. In this way, it is possible to construct a music information database which permits a music information search therethrough using impression words representing impressions of a music piece, at low cost without taking much time and labor.

Abstract: The present invention concerns cancer biomarkers. In particular, the invention concerns c-met as biomarkers for patient selection and patient prognosis in cancer, as well as methods of therapeutic treatment, articles of manufacture and methods for making them, diagnostic kits, methods of detection and methods of advertising related thereto.

Abstract: A cart system for distributing pharmaceutical items includes a cart and a plurality of totes. The cart has a wheeled base, framework, a door, and a locking mechanism. The framework extends upwardly from the base and forms an interior storage region having a front, a rear, and opposing sides. An access opening at the front is provided, with the door movable to a closed position that partially blocks the access opening. The locking mechanism selectively locks the door in the closed position. In a shipping state, the totes are loaded within the storage region and the door locked. The totes are visible from an exterior of the cart, but cannot be removed without evidence of tampering. The framework can divide the storage region into two or more columns, and includes platforms within the columns and arranged to define compartments sized to receive respective ones of the totes.

Abstract: A business method for creating a discount system and marketing includes: establishing an Executor by the Organizer; requesting Customer products or services, and receiving discount from the Executor or Organizer on purchased products and services; uniting Customers or Suppliers into a community; requesting discounts from the Supplier in exchange for turning Customers into clients; Granting discounts by the Supplier on sold products and services; Turning members of the community, headed by the Executor or the Organizer, into clients of the given Supplier of products and services; granting discounts by the Executor or the Organizer to each member of the community on products and services sold by the Supplier; delivering products and services by the Supplier directly to each Customer for prices lowered for the amount of the directed discount; purchasing products and services by each Customer from the Supplier directly for prices lowered for the amount of the directed discount.

Abstract: In embodiments of global pricing for content distribution, price points at which content is distributed for sale in a base currency can be determined, and a base price point selected from the price points. Currency value equivalents to the selected base price point may then be obtained for multiple currencies. A base price tier is populated with base prices that include the selected base price point and the currency value equivalents for the multiple currencies. A tax amount for each of the base prices in the base price tier can be calculated, and the calculated tax amount added to the base prices to generate tax-based prices in the base price tier. The tax-based prices can then be increased to a common price ending for each of the multiple currencies to generate the base price tier of global base prices.

Abstract: Techniques are described for automatically and dynamically determining, at the time that items are being returned from customers, how to handle the returns of the items. A variety of factors may be considered to determine appropriate item return handling for an item, including by assessing current conditions at the time of the item return. In addition, the dynamic item return handling may include selecting one of a variety of potential return locations for each item being returned and one of a variety of types of return routing for the return. After the item return handling is dynamically determined, information may be provided to the customer to facilitate the item return in the determined manner. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract, and with the intention that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

Abstract: An improved approach for locating and identifying IP for an electronic design is described. The present approach addresses the situation in which an IP catalog does not contain any IP which matches the exact requirements of an electronic design for which the IP is to be used or integrated.

Abstract: A method for selling restaurant food. One method, for selling food comprises the steps of: providing a buffet restaurant; selling containers to customers of the buffet restaurant; and permitting purchasers of said containers to place therein food from the buffet for take-away purposes. Another method is for use with a buffet restaurant of the all-you-can-eat type, wherein a patron is, in exchange for payment of a fixed price, allowed to eat as much as he or she wishes from the buffet in a single sitting. This method comprises the step of: allowing said patron, for an additional price, the opportunity to retrieve a predetermined quantity of food from the buffet for take-away purposes. The additional price can be embodied in the sale of a container to the patron, the volume of the container defining the predetermined quantity.

Abstract: A method for optimizing a price for delivering at least one communication from an advertiser to a consumer, the method including (a) defining an advertisement product with at least one parameter, (b) obtaining a demand curve for the advertisement product, (c) calculating a first profit function as a function of the demand curve, (d) determining a first price at a maximum of the first profit function, (e) determining a second price at a point on the first demand curve corresponding to a capacity of communications that can be delivered to the consumer, and (f) determining a greater of the first and second prices as an optimal price.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the field of sex determination of animals. Provided are methods and agents to manipulate sex determination, particularly in avian animals such as chickens, through a male chromosome-linked testis (sex) regulatory gene. Expression or activity of the DMRT1 gene or protein is modulated to produce animals with displaying a phenotype sex that differs from their genotype.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods and systems for implementing a procurement change request process. The method includes receiving a request to edit a requisition order from a requestor. The requisition order has been previously completed and the requisition order includes a lines. The method further includes receiving updates to at least one of the lines, and based on the received updates, updating the at least one of the lines of the requisition order. Further, the method includes determining that the at least one of the lines has been sourced to a purchase order, in response to the at least one of the lines being sourced to the purchase order, creating a requisition change request for the at least one of the lines, and updating the purchase order with the updates to the at least one of the lines of the requisition order.

Abstract: A stacker order type is provided for a spread trading strategy. According to an example embodiment, when a stacker order is enter to buy or sell a spread at a desired spread price, a trading tool dynamically determines a plurality of desired spread prices at which to work the spread. To work the multiple desired spread prices, the trading tool may then enter a quoting order for each desired spread price. As leaned on market prices change, one or more of the quoting orders may be re-assigned between the desired spread prices to minimize re-quoting.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for tracking a medication to be administered by a user. The method includes the steps of determining the identity of a medication to be administered by a user, identifying one or more characteristics associated with the medication that are to be used to continue to track the medication, the one or more characteristics including less than a total number of characteristics associated with the medication to be administered, and tracking the medication to be administered in accordance with the identified one or more characteristics through one or more future video images.

Abstract: A method, a system, an apparatus, and a computer program product is presented for performing federation protocol operations within a data processing system. A message is received. In response to a determination that subsequent processing of the message requires execution of a first federation protocol operation, the message is filtered against a set of policies to determine a subset of one or more applicable policies. An applicable policy is enforced by performing a second federation protocol operation as indicated by the applicable policy prior to performing the first federation protocol operation. In response to concluding enforcement of the applicable policy, the first federation protocol operation is initiated.

Abstract: “METHOD OF STANDARDIZATION OF INJECTABLE MEDICINES AND THEIR DILUENTS” is particularly intended to eliminate the possibility of confusion arising from the determination of said injectable medicines and their diluents in the general context of health care, such as hospitals, clinics and similar health-related facilities. The method is essentially intended to allow an injectable medicine to be administered following the correct definition of the appropriate diluent required by each product, said method comprising the standardization of a label (1) designed to be attached to vials or containers of injectable medicines, as well as a label (2) specifically designed to be attached to vials or containers of diluents; said label (1) includes information fields for various relevant information that should be corrected in the event of codification.

Abstract: The invention provides methods of immunotherapy of Alzheimer's and similar diseases in which the regime administered to a patient depends on the ApoE genotype of the patient.

Abstract: A consumer card return service would be created where a company entitled, Card Return Service, CRS, with the tangible service of retrieving left behind credit cards at restaurants, bars and night clubs and quickly getting these left behind cards back into the hands of the consumer. This service will potentially save many millions of dollars for the card issuers, relieve merchants of the burden of storing and protecting the cards, and create happy consumers by getting their cards back into their hands more quickly. We contend this new service will benefit consumers and that the newly created Consumer Financial Protection Agency, who provides oversight on card debit and credit fees, will approve any consumer fees that may be required to sustain this new idea. Approval will be granted because this service will be viewed as consumer protection, literally and figuratively.

Abstract: A method of generating and evaluating a brand name including the steps of gathering client data, transforming the client data into a positioning brief having brand specific data, transforming the position brief data to generate a NAMESCAPE having brand name specific data, evaluating the NAMESCAPE data, transforming the positioning brief data and evaluated NAMESCAPE data into a brand name.

Abstract: A method for grading a bedding fabric comprises selecting at least two grading parameters and assigning a grade to the fabric based upon the selected grading parameters in order to grade the fabric between a minimum grade and a maximum grade. The grade is designed to assist a consumer in making consistent purchases. The grading parameters may include cost, type of fabric, thread count, comfort performance characteristics, ply, weight, fiber density and/or thickness of the fabric, aesthetic appearance of the fabric, durability, weave, bacterial, allergen, and/or fungal resistant properties, and the eco-friendly nature of the fabric. A grading system for a packaged bedding fabric includes a packaged bedding product and a grade coupled to the packaged bedding product such that a consumer can determine the quality of the bedding product based upon the grade.

Abstract: A collaborative bargaining system receives expressions of interest from potential buyers of an item. The collaborative bargaining system receives bids from sellers of the item. Each bid consists of a price per item based on a minimum quantity of items. A time limited exclusive opportunity is awarded to one seller of the item to obtain from the interest group a commitment to buy the minimum quantity of items at the price per item as bid by the one seller. Sales of the item are closed when the interest group commits to buy the minimum quantity of items.

Abstract: A content generation, presentation, and evaluation system identifies biometric factors to improve the effectiveness of content presented to subjects. Biometric factors include subject visual acuity ranges, color sensitivity spectrums, audio sensitivity spectrums, chemical sensitivity ranges, etc. Content is generated and/or modified to benefit from subject visual acuity ranges, spectral sensitivities, tactile sensitivities, etc. In particular examples, content is tailored and/or modified for particular individuals and groups based on acuity and sensitivity profiles of those individuals or groups. Neuro-response data can be analyzed to determine the effectiveness of biometric aware content and further enhance content generation.

Abstract: Provided are a method, system, and program for translating and interfacing between data pools and product information management (PIM) systems. An element mapping is generated for each of a plurality of data pools mapping user elements and attributes to the data pool elements and attributes, wherein the data pools maintain product information. A message mapping is generated for each of the plurality of data pools mapping user messages and their parameters to data pool messages and their parameters. For each of the plurality of data pools, code is maintained that is enabled to cause operations comprising receiving a first document including user elements and messages and mapping the user elements and messages in the first document to a second document including data pool elements and attributes corresponding to the user elements and messages in the first document.

Abstract: A system for dispensing and collecting reusable bags at a store includes a purchase system, including a supply of bags, and a return system, disposed in a store, for receiving returned bags for reuse. The purchase system includes a store checkout stand, a store scanner, and at least one of a cash register, a store customer service counter, and/or a kiosk located near the entrance/exit of the store. The return system includes the store customer service counter, cash register, and/or kiosk. The kiosk includes a display screen, a scanner/RFID reader, a credit card reader, a bag dispenser, a return chute, and a voucher/refund dispenser. Various methods of use of such a system for dispensing and collecting reusable bags are disclosed.

Abstract: A method relates to theft protection during a security check of carry-on luggage and/or other personal objects in passenger terminals of airports or the like. Objects are placed by the passenger in a provided container before the personal inspection of the passenger and are transported in the container for x-raying by a screening device, on the output side of which the container is provided after the personal inspection of the passenger for removal of the objects of the passenger that have been recognized as unsuspicious. In order to create theft protection during the security check of carry-on luggage if the personal objects of the passenger are still unattended in the containers after passing through the screening device, the container can be locked with a lock before the screening.

Abstract: A contract fee is obtained from the one or more licensed medical professionals who may lease all or part of a hearing center. The lease fee is applied exclusively to expenses associated with a hearing center and the hearing center utilizes an Audiologist or Hearing Instrument Specialist. The patient is screened by the one or more licensed medical professionals according to one or more first screening methods. When the first screening indicates a potential hearing problem with the patient, the patient is referred to the hearing center. The patient undergoes an audiometric exam by the Audiologist or Hearing Instrument Specialist for hearing loss at the hearing center. When the testing by the Audiologist or Hearing Instrument Specialist indicates a need for a hearing instrument, a hearing instrument is ordered from the hearing instrument supplier. The hearing aid is fitted to the patient by the Audiologist or Hearing Instrument Specialist onsite at the hearing center.

Abstract: Methods of previewing a representation of a costume are provided. The method includes removably affixing two or more cling elements to a smooth surface in a non-overlapping manner, the two or more cling elements being disposed concurrently on and directly contacting the smooth surface, and the two or more cling elements comprising a portion of the representation of the costume to allow one of the following: a first person to view a semblance of a costumed image comprising a reflection of the first person with the affixed two or more cling elements each positioned over the reflection of the first person, and a second person to view through the smooth surface a portion of the first person with the affixed two or more cling elements each positioned adjacent the portion of the first person viewed through the smooth surface. The method also includes displaying the smooth surface.

Abstract: Methods for selecting transportation parameters for transporting parts from at least one point of part supply to at least one point of part demand in a manufacturing facility include determining a physical relationship between the at least one point of part supply and the at least one point of part demand, selecting a transportation route type from a preselected group of transportation route types based at least in part on the physical relationship, selecting an automated guided carrier type from a preselected group of automated guided carrier types based at least in part on the transportation route type, determining a need for traffic control based at least in part on the transportation route type, and if it is determined traffic control is needed, selecting a traffic control type from a preselected group of traffic control types based at least in part on the transportation route type.

Abstract: Lot identification codes marked on packaging comprise a fixed number of digits with substrings representing each of a date, a SKU, a lot number, and optionally a line and a checksum. The same fixed number of digits is used for the lot identification codes employed by multiple producers across an industry, or across multiple industries. The lot identification codes are therefore readily recognizable by search engines and otherwise reduce the number of steps required for consumers and others along the supply chain to obtain lot-specific information about packaged goods. Additionally, whenever an individual submits a lot identification code, it provides an opportunity to collect information about the product at that point along the supply chain. The information can link the quality of the product at the time and place of the request to the time and place of the packaging.

Abstract: A method and system to determine disposal options for identified items are discussed. For example, a method can include identifying an item for disposal, determining a disposal option, and presenting the disposal option to a user. The determining a disposal option can include calculating an average selling price and a current demand for the item within a selected sales channel.

Abstract: A method for providing financial services to a consumer seeking a loan that is designed to ease the difficult and stressful process and make it more comfortable and understandable for the consumer. The method comprises providing an office environment that is representative of a home, which may include a kitchen area, living room area, and dining room area—intended to make the consumer feel “at home” during the financial process. The method further includes a specific regimen to be followed by the financial advisor focused on generating a feeling of loyalty and friendliness to provide comfort for the consumer. Finally, the method provides a research center which provides additional resources for the consumer to help them more thoroughly understand the process.

Abstract: Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products are provided for monitoring quality metrics for patients in health care facilities. For example, in one embodiment, a monitoring server can monitor a set of quality metrics associated with a patient in a health care facility. During the monitoring process, the monitoring server can determine whether activities associated with the respective quality metrics have been or need to be performed, providing medical providers information in time to correct care documentation. The monitoring server can also cause display of graphics that indicate the results of such determinations.