Abstract: Packet messages transmitted on a packet communications network include origin and destination addresses in the form of stacked address elements which can be pushed or popped off of the stack. A plurality of interconnected packet communications network include routing nodes which utilize the top address element on the destination stack to route the message. Such routing nodes also include stack element editing facilities for popping elements from the stacks, constructing new elements to be pushed onto the stacks, and amending the contents of elements on the stack. This arrangement allows messages to be launched on the networks where the originating station does not have full knowledge of the destination station, and the routing nodes add the necessary destination information as it becomes necessary for routing.

Abstract: The damping characteristics of shock absorbers are variable contingent upon various operating parameters. In changing the damping characteristic, the invention provides for performing the change during operating phases of slight damping force changes. This can be achieved, in that the changes of the damping characteristic are carried out only in the compression stage of the shock absorber. This is especially favorable with a shock absorber of a design such that its damping characteristic will be adjustable only in the traction stage.

Abstract: An inflatable float with timer and pressure controls to enable underwater gear to be automatically lifted off the sea bed at intervals and moved to a new location. The gas for inflating the float may be generated by chemical means or galvanic action.

Abstract: In a powered V-sheave hauling system, purposively spaced enlargements on the line permit automatic disengagement of line and sheave when any desired point on the line reaches the sheave. The line is then held from running backwards under its load. The invention is particularly directed towards the avoidance of stresses or damage when a load has been fully pulled in.

Abstract: A power take-off for a motor through a recoil starter mounted axially in relation to the flywheel. Operation of the recoil starter is not interfered with. Provision is also made for axial concentricity of drive and driven shafts when the power take-off is in use.

Abstract: A vacuum package containing a single dose of the material to be dispensed is held in a frame so that it can be cut open by a spring-loaded sliding blade. The blade is held off the package against the force of the spring by a timer, which is an arrangement of a metal shear pin in contact with another metal of lower electrode potential. Immersion of the timer in an electrolyte such as sea water initiates galvanic action which causes the shear pin to corrode to failure close to a predetermined time.

Abstract: There are described new compounds of formula ##STR1## in which E is selected from the group consisting of residues of formula ##STR2## in which R" is selected from the group consisting of amino, vinyl, allyl, ethynyl, C.sub.1 -C.sub.5 alkyl, C.sub.1 -C.sub.5 alkoxy, or C.sub.1 -C.sub.5 alkylthio or a C.sub.1 -C.sub.5 alkyl group susbstituted by at least one halogen atom; and hydrogen; in which R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are each selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, halogen, methyl and ethyl; and R' is selected from substituted phenyl when R" is other than hydrogen, and phenyl, thienyl and substituted phenyl and thienyl when R" is hydrogen.The compounds are useful in the control of parasites.Certain of the compounds have antimicrobial properties.

Abstract: 1,2,4-Oxadiazoles having as 3- and 5-substituents a hydrogen atom, an aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, araliphatic, aryl or heterocyclic group, or a carbamoyl group of the formula -- CONR.sup.1 R.sup.2 where R.sup.1 & R.sup.2 which can be the same or different, are hydrogen atoms or aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, araliphatic or aryl groups or, taken with the N atom, a heterocvolic ring; provided that at least one of the 3- or 5-substituents is an N-substituted carbamoyl group. Antimicrobial activity, and particularly antiviral, antiparasitic and antibacterial activity is shown in this group. The corresponding oxadiazolins are also described and are useful intermediates in the preparation of the oxadiazoles.