Abstract: Multilayer articles, such as tubing and films, are disclosed which have a soft layer of aliphatic polyurethane and at least one layer of hard aliphatic polyurethane. The articles formed avoid the problem of tackiness when using only a soft aliphatic polyurethane, while maintaining flexibility. The articles are also biocompatible and biostable and are suitable for use in medical applications.

Abstract: The invention provides a regulator system for regulating the operation of an irrigation system which is responsive to user programmed information. It has a control element for issuing watering control signals to an irrigation system, having at least one of (i) a duration programming device for programming a minimum amount of time and a maximum amount of time for the suspension of watering by the irrigation system, and (ii) a user adjustable temperature programming device for programming a minimum allowed temperature for initiating a watering period by the irrigation system. It further has an irrigation system interface for connecting said control element with the irrigation system. It also has a switch for conveying the control signals from the control element to the irrigation system via the irrigation system interface, for either permitting or prohibiting watering by the irrigation system, responsive to the control signals generated by and received from the control element.

Abstract: Multilayer articles, such as tubing and films, are disclosed which have a soft layer of aliphatic polyurethane and at least one layer of hard aliphatic polyurethane. The articles formed avoid the problem of tackiness when using only a soft aliphatic polyurethane, while maintaining flexibility. The articles are also biocompatible and biostable and are suitable for use in medical applications.

Abstract: The invention provides the identification and characterization of plant SNF4 and SNF1 genes. Examples of the genes were cloned from tomato. They are nucleic acids and proteins belonging to the SNF1-related protein kinase family, and are involved in plant's response to stress conditions such as nutritional and environmental stresses. The invention also provides transgenic plants containing the genes, and methods of modulating stress responses in transgenic plants comprising these genes.