Abstract: A household management system having a user interface, a media content data store, a purchase history data store, a media content manager in communication with the user interface and the media content data store, and a purchase history module in communication with the user interface and the purchase history data store. A method of selectively displaying media content to a consumer, and a computer-implemented method of populating a shopping list comprising a list of a plurality of products for later purchase by a user are also provided.

Abstract: A method for the encryption, transmission, and subsequent decryption of digital keying data. The method utilizes the Data Encryption Standard and is implemented by means of a pair of apparatus, each of which is selectable to operate as either a master unit or remote unit. Each unit contains a set of key encryption keys which are indexed by a common indexing system. The master unit operates upon command from the remote unit to generate a data encryption key and encrypt the data encryption key using a preselected key encryption key. The encrypted data encryption key and an index designator are then downloaded to the remote unit, where the data encryption key is decrypted for subsequent use in the encryption and transmission data. Downloading of the encrypted data encryption key enables frequent change of keys without requiring manual entry or storage of keys at the remote unit.

Abstract: A micro-climate temperature control apparatus for heating and/or cooling of plants is disclosed. The apparatus includes an array of flexible, individually movable plastic tubes which are positioned under the plant root systems and/or used as space heating and cooling elements proximate the plant foliage. The tubes are preferably formed of EPDM plastic enabling their use with high-temperature water sources, as well as conventional sources. A notched tube securement strip is also disclosed which enables arrangement and securement of the individually movable tubes in a wide variety of configurations and also facilitates the use of relatively short input and outlet distribution manifolds.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for root zone heating of plants is disclosed. The apparatus includes an array of flexible, individually movable, plastic tubes which are positioned under the plant root systems. The tubes are preferably formed of EPDM plastic enabling their use with water from geothermal and solar pond sources, as well as conventional sources.