Abstract: A pseudo-random sequence generator characterized by comprising a plurality of substantially similar elements adapted to operate in parallel, each said element including: means for entering at least first and second different numbers into that element, and means for processing said numbers including multiplier means for creating intermediate numbers of higher value than either of said first and second numbers and modulating means for subsequently reducing those intermediate numbers to values below the higher of said first and second numbers, whereby said processing means is adapted to generate a first sequence that has a period of not less than half the number range of said first sequence; and means for combining the first sequences, number by number, from all the parallel elements to permit generation of a pseudo-random sequence of higher period.

Abstract: The extraction of fibres from corn husks and/or leaves or corn husks alone is accomplished to provide fibres which are substantially free of the vegetable binder material. The corn husks (and leaves) are preferably allowed to dry to a substantially moisture-free state and are then soaked in a caustic solution for a predetermined period in which the caustic solution frees the fibres from the vegetable matter of the corn husks (and leaves) and reacts with the fibre to strengthen the same. Before the caustic material has an opportunity to degrade the fibres of the corn husks (and leaves), the caustic solution is diluted by rinsing the corn husks (and leaves). While still wet, the fibrous material is straightened so as to dispose the fibrous components of the corn husks (and leaves) in substantially parallel arrangement and in the process the excess binder material is separated from the fibrous material.