Abstract: In combination with an asynchronous detector for detecting a particular digital word within a train of signals wherein the detector samples each bit in the train a plurality of times and provides a comparison signal in response to a predetermined number of correlations between the samples and a stored word, an analog to digital converter including signal conditioning means having first and second modes of operations for converting a received analog signal to a digital signal in both modes of operation and inserting periodic error pulses in the digital signal in the first mode of operation and switch means coupled to the signal conditioning means and the detector for switching the signal conditioning means between the first and second modes of operation in response to a comparison signal from the detector.

Abstract: Thin metal film systems supported on transparent substrates are described for use in laser micromachining of high resolution facsimile images. The disclosed systems, which include a specific anti-reflection film, require less energy for micromachining than bismuth films of equal optical opacity.

Abstract: An apparatus for feeding sheets of paper or the like in succession from the top of a stack of sheets. A member extends over a corner portion of the stack, and a vertically movable suction element pulls a corner portion of the top sheet of the stack from beneath said member. After the suction element has released the corner, a suction transfer device sucks the top sheet, starting at said corner portion thereof, progressively against the lower face of the transfer device and then moves the top sheet away from the stack.

Abstract: Carbon black is recovered from vulcanized waste rubber such as automobile tires or other articles by reacting pieces of the rubber with an aromatic oil solvent in a stirred reactor at 500.degree.-700.degree.F temperature and about 25-100 psig pressure for 0.5-2 hours residence time. The resulting solids-liquid mixture is processed to remove solids, and the resulting solid product is then dried, screened and chemically treated to recover the carbon black in dry powder form. The remaining solvent oil is also recovered and a portion reused in the process.

Abstract: The temperature within a body is measured by covering an area of the body surface with a layer of thermal insulation, measuring the temperature with two sensors located respectively at the insulation/body surface interface and at the opposite side of the insulating layer to indicate any temperature gradient along a path from within the body through the sensors, and applying heat over the insulating layer/sensor sandwich to annul any such gradient. This effectively exteriorises the desired deep body temperature, which is then indicated by the sensors. It is important that the insulation extend laterally beyond the sensors to guard against peripheral temperature gradients affecting the sensor region and to take account of any inherent thermal irregularities in the body. This last point is particularly relevant to clinical use on human subjects with irregularities caused by vascular channels. Similar considerations lead to use of a thin film or similar uniform heating element over the relevant area.