Abstract: A biometric electronic card is disclosed. The biometric electronic card includes an electronic transactions unit to enable secure financial transactions; a communications network unit; a card data encoding storage; an input/output unit to interact with the biometric electronic card and to verify biometrics of a user; a power source; and a location positioning unit, where the electronic transactions unit, the communications network unit, the card data encoding storage, the input/output unit, the power source and the location positioning unit are all integrated with the biometric electronic card. A biometric electronic card case for interaction with the biometric electronic card is disclosed. The biometric electronic card case includes an input/output unit; a securing mechanism; a protective cover surrounding the biometric electronic card case; an integrated biometric electronic card case circuit; a power source; a communications unit; a processing unit; and a location positioning unit.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for increasing the wetting rate of a plant growth medium utilizing a wetting agent composition. The composition is comprised of at least one modified block copolymer. The modified block copolymer is comprised of an ester of an ethylene oxide-propylene oxide block copolymer and a fatty acid. The composition of the present invention also enhances plant growth and productivity by increasing the water uptake and the nutrient uptake by the plant roots.

Abstract: A novel composition for use in a process for cooking wood to form pulp and processes for using same are provided. The composition and variations thereof are useful in enhancing the uniformity of wood cooking and reducing the rejects in a pulping process for the production of pulp. The composition comprises esters of block copolymers having the general formula ##STR1## wherein x, y, and z each have a value of at least one.

Abstract: Insulated wire, cable, and the like, is stripped of its insulation without damaging the wire. The insulated wire is preferably cooled to a low temperature, rendered brittle, and then continuously passed over roller means to effect fracturing and removal of the insulation. The bare wire is continuously recovered in an undamaged condition and the particles of insulation recycled where necessary. Wire straightening is optionally provided for straightening the bent wire after the insulation is removed.