Abstract: Modular environmental control systems and methods for enclosed structures are described. In an embodiment, a first air chamber having one or more first openings receives air from an enclosed structure. The first air chamber includes one or more second openings configured to receive ambient air. The one or more second openings are selectively closable. A first duct delivers air from the enclosed structure to the first chamber via the one or more first openings in the first air chamber. A second air chamber receives air from the first air chamber and has one or more openings configured to deliver air to the enclosed structure. A plurality of air conditioning modules are removably mounted to a divider positioned between the first air chamber and second air chamber. Air from the first chamber is selectively received into the second chamber by passing through the air conditioning modules. A second duct is configured to deliver air from the one or more openings of the second chamber to the enclosed structure.

Abstract: Modular environmental control systems and methods for enclosed structures are described. In an embodiment, a first air chamber having one or more first openings receives air from an enclosed structure. The first air chamber includes one or more second openings configured to receive ambient air. The one or more second openings are selectively closable. A first duct delivers air from the enclosed structure to the first chamber via the one or more first openings in the first air chamber. A second air chamber receives air from the first air chamber and has one or more openings configured to deliver air to the enclosed structure. A plurality of air conditioning modules are removably mounted to a divider positioned between the first air chamber and second air chamber. Air from the first chamber is selectively received into the second chamber by passing through the air conditioning modules. A second duct is configured to deliver air from the one or more openings of the second chamber to the enclosed structure.

Abstract: In the present invention, cDNA microarrays to investigate pituitary gene expression in two chicken lines that were selected for low and high body fat (Lean and Fat). Differentially expressed genes between lines are potential candidates as genetic markers for high and low potential for body fat accumulation. The lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor-1 (LPAR1) was identified as a potential marker, being differentially expressed between the lean and fat lines at the early ages. The invention provides SNPs that can introduce a GATA site in the promoter of LPAR1 which can upregulate its expression in the lean chickens, and increased LPA signaling and which can inhibit preadipocyte differentiation. Conversely, SNPs are provided that cause loss of the GATA binding site and cause decreased levels of LPAR1 expression and attenuated inhibition of adipocyte maturation in fat chickens.

Abstract: A subsurface hydronic heat-exchanging apparatus and method are provided for controlling the temperature of a turf field. A temperature-controlling fluid is circulated from a temperature-controlled fluid source through a supply header laterally disposed to the field and coupled to an array of hollow tubular heat-exchanging elements underlying the field. Fluid is recirculated to the fluid source from the tubes through a return header laterally disposed to the field and coupled to the tubes. Temperature sensors are disposed adjacent the turf field which detect the temperature of the field and a temperature control device is provided which is responsive to the detected temperature.