Apparatus and method to improve the speed, scalability, robustness and dynamism of multicast data transfers to remote computers. The invention encompasses novel compounds, analogs, prodrugs and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, pharmaceutical compositions and methods for prophylaxis and treatment of diseases and other maladies or conditions involving, cancer and the like. A circular flat portion 11 for diffusing light emitted from the semiconductor light-emitting device 4 toward the sides is provided in a part of the convex lens portion 8 intersecting the optical axis of the convex lens portion 8. The optical elements constitute respective light paths from the scanning portion to the windows for the plurality of light beams, respectively. An alternative pulse detection module is provided that tracks signal pulses by comparing peak data from successive FFT cycles with existing signal pulse data that is derived from comparing peak data for prior FFT cycles.