The invention is a method and apparatus for improving image-processing applications. A resistive-capacitive network is connected between an inputoutput port of the microcontroller and a sense voltage to be converted. The hook strip first face has an array of upstanding hook projections which form at least in part the first face of the bundling strap, the second face of the hook strip comprises a film which film is provided with a printed UPC code readable through the hook strip first face. The method and apparatus thus control a device to apply at least one transformation to the first and second thermograms to align the first features with corresponding second features, and determine, at any thermogram location, if at least one of the thermograms presents one of a plurality of patterns indicative of inflammation. The fee for the reservation is determined in a manner which is fair to the reserving subscriber, as well as all other subscribers, in that the reservation fee is priced to provide access at a cost which prevents arbitraging opportunities.