Abstract: A segmented toy bar assembly includes multiple toy bar segments connected by couplings that allow for reconfiguration between an expanded configuration defining an expanded length and a compact configuration having a compact length that is substantially less than the expanded length. The toy bar segments may take the form of flexible members having a cross-sectional width at least two times the cross-sectional thickness, to allow the expanded toy bar to flex into an arch for placement over a play mat or other children's accessory. Toys may be suspended from the erected toy bar for play and entertainment.

Abstract: Methods for the recovery of natural fiber-containing material from waste textile and methods for recovery of monomers and/or oligomers from waste plastics comprise contacting about 10 to about 25 wt % of the waste with about 75 to about 95 wt % of an aqueous reagent, the aqueous reagent comprising at least about 80 wt % water and about 20 wt % or less tetraethylene glycol, based on the water and the tetraethylene glycol, and a base, at a temperature of about 90° C. to about 140° C. for about 20 to about 60 minutes to depolymerize polymers in the wastes. The base is included in the aqueous reagent in an amount effective to depolymerize the polymers.