Abstract: Several embodiments provide wireless extensions to an irrigation controller system and related methods of use, as well as other improvements to irrigation control equipment. In one implementation, an irrigation control system includes a transmitter unit including a controller and having a connector to be coupled to an irrigation controller having station actuation output connectors. The controller is configured to receive an indication that the irrigation controller has activated an irrigation station, and is also configured to cause the transmitter unit to transmit a wireless activation signal responsive to the indication. A receiver unit is coupled to an actuator coupled to an actuatable device, such as an irrigation valve, the actuator configured to actuate the irrigation valve to control the flow of water therethrough. The receiver unit receives the wireless activation signal and in response, causes the actuator to actuate the actuatable device.

Abstract: Several embodiments provide wireless extensions to an irrigation controller system and related methods of use, as well as other improvements to irrigation control equipment. In one implementation, an irrigation control system includes a transmitter unit including a controller and having a connector to be coupled to an irrigation controller having station actuation output connectors. The controller is configured to receive an indication that the irrigation controller has activated an irrigation station, and is also configured to cause the transmitter unit to transmit a wireless activation signal responsive to the indication. A receiver unit is coupled to an actuator coupled to an actuatable device, such as an irrigation valve, the actuator configured to actuate the irrigation valve to control the flow of water therethrough. The receiver unit receives the wireless activation signal and in response, causes the actuator to actuate the actuatable device.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include using molecular biology techniques to produce a fusion or chimeric protein of two or more different IGFBPs For example, the IGF binding properties or characteristics of a first protein are retained as is the receptor binding properties and characteristics of a second IGFBP. In particular aspects, a fusion or chimera of IGFBP-6 and IGFBP-3 (IGFBP-6/3) may be produced and used. Certain properties of each binding protein contribute to the therapeutic property of the fusion protein. For IGFBP-3 these properties include the specific binding to a target cell and the induction of apoptosis in a target cell. For IGFBP-6, these properties include an increased affinity for IGF-II versus IGF-I. The binding of IGF-II can deprive a cell exhibiting aberrant growth characteristics of the growth promoting functions of IGF-II.

Abstract: An improved underground box and lid for use in irrigation systems and other underground systems is provided. A single box can be inverted, combined and interlocked with a second box to form a single enclosed structure that is twice as high. This can be used for those installations where underground system components are buried in the ground at a greater depth than can be accommodated by a single box.