Abstract: Apparatus for holding a disk-shape data carrier (6), e.g. a DC or a DVD, having a central aperture, the apparatus comprising a base portion (5), disk engaging means (1, 2, 4) for releaseably engaging the central aperture of the data carrier (6), having retaining means (1) for engaging and retaining the data carrier (6) on the apparatus and release means (2, 4) which, when pressed, releases the engagement of the retaining means (1) with the data carrier (6) so the data carrier (6) can be removed from the apparatus, wherein removable security means (7) are provided to inhibit actuation of the release means (2, 4) to prevent release of the data carrier (6).

Abstract: Apparatus for holding a disk-shape data carrier (6), e.g. a DC or a DVD, having a central aperture, the apparatus comprising a base portion (5), disk engaging means (1, 2, 4) for releaseably engaging the central aperture of the data carrier (6), having retaining means (11) for engaging and retaining the data carrier (6) on the apparatus and release means (2, 4) which, when pressed, releases the engagement of the retaining means (1) with the data carrier (6) so the data carrier (6) can be removed from the apparatus, wherein removable security means (7) are provided to inhibit actuation of the release means (2, 4) to prevent release of the data carrier (6).

Abstract: A rib waveguide structure comprising a layer (4) of light conductive material defined between two planar faces with a rib (9) formed on one of the faces and an optical component e.g. a tapered waveguide (6) optically coupled to the other face. An inverted rib waveguide comprising a light conductive layer (11) and a rib (10) that projects from the light conductive layer (11) into a substrate (4,8) is also described as well as other optical devices comprising a light conductive layer separated from a substrate by a non-planar layer (3) of light confining material and optical devices comprising two or more layers (2, 3; 18, 19, 20) of light confining material buried within a rib with a light conducting component (10; 17; 22) at least a part of which is formed between planes defined by the two layers of light confining material. A method of forming such devices is also described.

Abstract: A rib waveguide structure comprising a layer (4) of light conductive material defined between two planar faces with a rib (9) formed on one of the faces and an optical components e.g. a tapered waveguide (6) optically coupled to the other face. An inverted rib waveguide comprising a light conductive layer (11) and a rib (10) that projects from the light conductive layer (11) into a substrate (4, 8) is also described as well as other optical devices comprising a light conductive layer separated from a substrate by a non-planar layer (3) of light confining material and optical devices comprising two or more layers (2, 3; 18, 19, 20) of light confining material buried within a rib with a light conducting component (10; 17; 22) at least a part of which is formed between planes defined by the two layers of light confining material. A method of forming such devices is also described.

Abstract: X-ray detectable filament of elastomeric material for incorporation in a surgical dressing, including an X-ray opaque substance in sufficient proportions to render the filament detectable by X-rays, the filament incorporating throughout its length a continuous, preferably internal, reinforcing thread such as a textile yarn.