Abstract: A method of defining, monitoring, and managing performance, influencing behavior, and aligning behaviors to strategic objectives involves determining with clarity, simplicity and materiality the why, the expectations, the levels of performance, and the projected response, to a set behaviors, accomplishments, and results. For individuals or groups, important behaviors, accomplishments and results are identified, prioritized, and a certain number selected and placed on an RPM matrix and weighted. The RPM matrix lists the weighting as well as specifying levels of performance. After completion of a measurement period, the RPM matrix calculates an RPM score for the individual or group. This RPM score is then used to determine an appropriate reward or response, and can be fed into web-based reporting software.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for implementing and managing a network architecture capable of delivering wireless telephony and data services of carrier class quality over a local or wide-area network using industry standard wireless protocols is disclosed. A high bandwidth microwave ring array provides redundant point-to-point communications between nodes that are located to optimize geographical coverage through radio-frequency wireless transceivers. The total system is managed and monitored through web-based software to provide the speed and reliability of wired systems at a fraction of the cost of traditional systems, facilitating service in rural areas or areas of dispersed populations where other communications infrastructure is impractical.

Abstract: A golf driving and putting training aid comprises a driving module, a short-putt module, a long-putt module, and a third putting module. The driving module includes a shaft of telescoping cylinders pivotally secured at one end to a supporting surface and provided with a driving handle at the other end. The rate of retraction and extension of all cylinders is controlled by felt strips restricting the flow of air between the cylinders. The direction of the swing is controlled by pivoting joints by which the cylinders are connected to the supporting surface and to the handle. In one embodiment, the cylinders are pivotally attached to a slidable sleeve that glides along a horizontal bar. The movement of the sleeve can be restricted along the horizontal bar. The short-putt module includes a telescoping cylindrical shaft that is attached to the user's putter. When used, the short-putt module forces the user to keep the short-putt stroke straight.

Abstract: A golf driving and putting training aid comprises a driving module, a short-putt module, and a long-putt module. The driving module includes a shaft (12) of telescoping cylinders pivotally secured at one end to a supporting surface (50) and provided with a driving handle (22) at the other end. The rate of retraction and extension of all cylinders is controlled by felt strips (84) restricting the flow of air between the cylinders. The direction of the swing is controlled by pivoting joints (20) by which the cylinders are connected to the supporting surface and to the handle. The short-putt module includes a telescoping cylindrical shaft that is attached to the user's putter (112). When used, the short-putt module includes an arcuate guide to which a putter may be attached, thereby requiring the user to use the proper arcuate stoke for a long put.

Abstract: A flexible amplification system for wireless data networks is disclosed. The amplification system may be powered from multiple sources including power over Ethernet, obviating the need for independent data and power cables. The amplification system may be digitally controlled to optimize bi-directional transmit and receive capabilities and to produce a constant output.

Abstract: A method and computer product are disclosed that permit the creation of secure invitations containing no sensitive information. The invitations contain encrypted tokens that are received by authorized invitees, thereby providing secure access to a communications session that may involve the exchange of sensitive information. Invitations contain only pointers to information about invitees and the communications session, so that all sensitive information may be retained in a master database on the host server rather than being communicated to the invitee in the invitation. Secure communication sessions may thus be conducted by sending invitations with encrypted tokens to eligible participants without the risk of the information in the tokens being decrypted and used by unauthorized parties to gain access to the secure session, because the tokens contain no information about the invitee or the session.

Abstract: A method for producing ferrocene and other organometallic compounds of cyclopentadiene is disclosed. Dry iron chloride (or other selected metal salt) is added to a solution of cyclopentadiene, diethylamine, potassium and dibenzo-18-crown-6 ether in a cooled flask under a dry nitrogen atmosphere. The solution is mixed vigorously for a few hours and any excess diethylamine is evaporated. Ferrocene (or other organometallic compounds of cyclopentadiene) is extracted from the residue using petroleum ether, and any solvent is removed.