Abstract: An interconnection network has a first stage network and a second stage network and a collection of devices outside the network so that a first device is capable of sending data to a second device. The first stage network is connected to inputs of the second stage network. The first and second stage networks each have more outputs than inputs. The data is first sent from the first device to the first stage network and then from the first stage network to the second stage network. The data is sent to the second device from the second stage network. The number of inputs to a device from the second stage network exceeds the number of outputs from a device into the first stage network. The latency through the entire system may be a fixed constant.

Abstract: This invention encompasses near-real-time processing of astronomical images for viewing on a computer. This image processing method is preferably integrated with the control of an astronomical observatory. The subject invention thus includes an Internet-based system that provides a virtual experience of an astronomical observatory. The subject invention preferably uses an unmanned astronomical observatory to observe galaxies, nebulae, stars, etc. The observatory produces color images suitable for viewing on a computer monitor. These images are delivered to users across the Internet using web browser-based software.

Abstract: A non-invasive quantitative somatosensory apparatus is provided for evaluating erectile dysfunctions and involves the applications to the glans penis of two different temperatures. If the patient is unable to differentiate the difference in temperature, a diagnosis of neurologic dysfunction can be made with greater than 90% reliability. The apparatus of this invention provides a relatively simple device to assess a patient's neurological response to therapies.

Abstract: A toy comprising a figure having an arm attachment portion; and at least two figure transport units, each of said figure transport units having a body and an arm movable between a first position and a second position with respect to said body, said arm having a figure attachment portion for removable attachment of said figure thereto, said figure attachment portion of said arm having a first configuration for attachment of said figure to said arm by attachment of said figure attachment portion of said arm to said arm attachment portion of said figure where said arm is in said first position, said figure attachment portion of said arm having a second configuration for removal of said figure from said arm by separation of said figure attachment portion of said arm from said arm attachment portion of said figure when said arm is in said second position whereby said figure is transported from a first one of said at least two figure transport units to a second one of said at least two figure transport units after

Abstract: A golf training device for chipping or pitching comprises a vertical support means; an arcuate rigid planar sheet having upper, leading, trailing, and lower edge portions describing an arc of approximately 120°; and an adjusting means engaging said sheet and holding said sheet in a predetermined angular relation with said vertical support means; whereby the golfer may swing the clubhead of a golf club along the inner planar surface of said sheet.