Abstract: A process for preparing a compound of general formula ##STR1## where Ar represents an optionally substituted aromatic or heteroaromatic group, the process comprising reacting a compound of general formulaAr--C(L.sup.1).sub.2 Cl (II)where each L.sup.1 independently represents a leaving group (preferably a chlorine atom), with water in the presence of a Lewis acid and a chlorocarbon solvent which includes at least two chlorine atoms, is disclosed.

Abstract: A buckle assembly configured for one-handed release by an operator thereof, including a pair of clasps, each having a release tab. Each of the clasps are adapted for release by pressure from a single finger of the operator on the release tab. A main buckle is designed to independently and releasably engage the clasps. The main buckle is configured so that both clasps are releasable from the main buckle with two fingers of one hand.

Abstract: An aerobic conditioning apparatus for use by a trainee in simultaneously exercising the upper and lower body in a smooth shock-free manner substantially simulating movement of the arms and legs during swimming. The apparatus includes a supporting frame, first and second foot supporting assemblies mounted on the supporting frame for controlling the movement of the right and left feet of the user respectively to an oscillatory motion along first and second paths between first forward positions and a second rearward position, first and second hand engaging assemblies mounted on the supporting frame for controlling the movement of the right and left hands of the user respectively to an oscillatory motion along paths between a first upraised position and a second lowered position, and synchronizing mechanisms mounted on the supporting frame for causing synchronous movement of the foot engaging assemblies and the hand engaging assemblies.

Abstract: A fanny pack in combination with an insulated handwarmer muff provides a device for carrying objects and a handwarming device, each of which can be used independently of the other. The handwarmer pack is worn to the rear of the user's body on the hips. When turned to the front of the user's body the user's hands may be inserted into an insulated handwarmer muff through separate openings which do not give access to the compartment in which objects are carried. With the muff removed, the other contents of the pack are unaffected, while the muff can still be used to warm the hands, or opened flat as a seat cushion. The pocket which housed the muff is then available for additional carrying space, while the contents of the main compartment, or fanny pack are accessible by means of a separate opening at the top.

Abstract: A line switch including a concentrator arrangement for coupling telephone calls between a plurality of subscriber lines and a plurality of port group highways to a central office switching network in a telephony system. The analog voice signals are first digitized and multiplexed into time slot channels on line group highways for transfer to the concentrator arrangement. The concentrator arrangement couples the digitized voice information signals between time slot channels on any of the line group highways and any of the port group highways. The line switch includes control circuitry that selects the time slot channel, line group highway and port group highway to couple the digitized voice information signals between the subscriber line and the central office matrix switch through the concentrator.