[Numpy-discussion] optimizing power() for complex and real cases

[Tim Hochberg]

I had some free time some morning, so I merged the nc_pow optimizations 
for integral powers in and committed them to the power_optimization 
branch. They could probably use more testing, but I thought someone 
might like to take a look while I'm out of town.

Also, if your looking for a way to do powers as succusive multiplies for 
fast_power or scalar_power or whatnot, starting with the algorithm for 
nc_pow would probably be a good place to start.

Hmm. Looking at this now, I realize I'm shadowing the input complex 
number 'a', with a local 'a'. Too much mindless copying from 
complexobject. That should be fixed, but I can't do it right now.

Enjoy,

-tim