Abstract: An apparatus for sterilizing an object includes a chamber that can receive a sterilizing agent. A first screw having a first rod and a first helical thread is coupled to the chamber. The first screw is a right-hand screw that can rotate about the first rod in a first direction. A second screw having a second rod and a second helical thread is coupled to the chamber. The second rod is situated approximately parallel to the first rod. The second screw is a left-hand screw that can rotate about the second rod in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The first helical thread and the second helical thread are positioned to support an object. The first screw and the second screw can continuously move the object in a direction approximately parallel to the first screw through the sterilizing agent to substantially sterilize the object.

Abstract: A user describes himself or his interests by selecting at least one of a predetermined set of profiles, which reflect human characteristics. The selected profile(s) can be used when interacting over a communication network (e.g. the Internet) (7) to facilitate being directed to appropriate remote information or to appropriate other users. Information about the activities of many users, such as information about Internet usage, can be gathered by a central server (19) and collated to compile statistical information in relation to their respective selected profile(s).