Abstract: An apparatus and method for monitoring financial securities markets or financial securities to provide information regarding the status of the financial securities markets or securities. The apparatus transforms measured values of more than one parameter of the system using a function dependent on at least baseline and critical values of the parameters. In a preferred form, the function is a sigmoid function. The apparatus further maps the function to a sequence of reference values and generating a deviation indicator for each parameter. The deviation indicators are then analyzed to generate and display information concerning the status of the financial securities markets or financial securities.

Abstract: Apparatus for applying force to a patient's upper torso and cervical region, and method for using the same, comprising a pair of panels adapted to fit under the arms of a patient and to cover the patient's chest and back. The panels have edges defining lateral extremities of the panels at the patient's chest and back. A pair of sleeves is provided having tubular portions adapted for receiving the patient's arms therein. The tubular portions have a slit and are adapted for adjustable fitting about the patient's distal biceps. Straps are used for maintaining the panels against the patient's chest. A bulbous disk is provided for contacting the rear of the patient's lower neck and upper back and for applying a spreading force over the patient's neck and back. Straps are connected to front surfaces of the sleeve upper portions and adapted for applying force to the disk and hence to the patient's neck, back, shoulder girdles, and upper extremities.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for monitoring a system or patient to provide information regarding the status of the system. The apparatus transforms measured values of more than one parameter of the system using a function dependent on at least baseline and critical values of the parameters. The apparatus further includes mapping means for mapping the function to a sequence of reference values and generating a deviation indicator for each parameter. The deviation indicators are analyzed by an analyzer to generate information concerning the status of the system or patient.