Search Results (397)

Mycoplasmal pneumonia of sheep (MPS), caused by Mesomycoplasma (Mycoplasma) ovipneumoniae, profoundly impacts ovine productivity and survival. Although gut–lung microbiota interactions are increasingly recognized in respiratory diseases, whether similar crosstalk occurs between the lung and rumen microbiota in MPS-affected sheep remains unknown. To investigate alterations in the lung and rumen microbiota of sheep with MPS, the crosstalk between these microbial communities, and their impacts on growth phenotypes. From a cohort of 414 naturally infected six-month-old male Hu sheep, we selected 10 individuals with severe pulmonary pathology and 10 healthy controls for detailed phenotypic and microbiome analyses. Assessment of 359 phenotypic traits revealed that MPS significantly impairs feed efficiency and growth rate (p < 0.05). Through 16S rRNA gene sequencing, we found that MPS significantly altered the pulmonary microbiota community structure (p < 0.01), with a noticeable impact on the rumen microbiota composition (p = 0.059). Succinivibrionaceae_UCG-001 was significantly depleted in both the rumen and lungs of diseased sheep (p < 0.05) and strongly associated with reduced average daily feed intake (p < 0.05). In addition, pulmonary Pasteurella and ruminal Succinivibrionaceae_UCG-002 were significantly enriched in MPS-affected sheep, showed a strong positive correlation (p < 0.05), and were both negatively associated with feed efficiency (p < 0.05). Notably, Pasteurella multocida subsp. gallicida may act as a keystone species influencing feed efficiency. These findings point to a previously unrecognized rumen-lung microbial axis that may modulate host productivity in sheep affected by MPS. This work provides new insights into the pathogenesis of MPS and offers potential targets for therapeutic intervention and management. Full article

Fault diagnosis is of great significance for the maintenance of rotating machinery. Deep learning is an intelligent diagnostic technique that is receiving increasing attention. To address the issues of industrial data with small samples and varying working conditions, a residual convolutional neural network based on the attention mechanism is put forward for the fault diagnosis of rotating machinery. The method incorporates channel attention and spatial attention simultaneously, implementing channel-wise recalibration for frequency-dependent feature adjustment and performing spatial context aggregation across receptive fields. Subsequently, a residual module is introduced to address the vanishing gradient problem of the model in deep network structures. In addition, LSTM is used to realize spatiotemporal feature fusion. Finally, label smoothing regularization (LSR) is proposed to balance the distributional disparities among labeled samples. The effectiveness of the method is evaluated by its application to the vibration signal data from the safe injection pump and the Case Western Reserve University (CWRU). The results show that the method has superb diagnostic accuracy and strong robustness. Full article

The β-glucosidase CEL1B has been linked to regulating cellulase expression in Trichoderma reesei, yet its inducer-specific functions and broader regulatory roles remain poorly characterized. In this study, CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene knockout was applied in the industrial high-producing T. reesei Rut C30 to investigate CEL1B function without the confounding effects of KU70 deletion. Unlike previous studies focused solely on cellulose or lactose induction, transcriptomic analysis of the CEL1B knockout strain revealed its regulatory roles under both lactose- and sophorose-rich conditions, with sophorose representing the most potent natural inducer of cellulase expression. Under lactose induction, CEL1B deletion resulted in a 52.4% increase in cellulase activity (p < 0.05), accompanied by transcriptome-wide upregulation of β-glucosidase genes (CEL3A: 729%, CEL3D: 666.8%, CEL3C: 110.9%), cellulose-sensing receptors (CRT1: 203.0%, CRT2: 105.8%), and key transcription factors (XYR1: 2.7-fold, ACE3: 2.8-fold, VIB1: 2.1-fold). Expression of ER proteostasis genes was significantly upregulated (BIP1: 3.3-fold, HSP70: 6.2-fold), contributing to enhanced enzyme secretion. Conversely, under sophorose induction, CEL1B deletion reduced cellulase activity by 25.7% (p < 0.05), which was associated with transcriptome profiling showing significant downregulation of β-glucosidase CEL3H (66.6%) and cellodextrin transporters (TrireC30_91594: 79.3%, TrireC30_127980: 76.3%), leading to reduced cellobiohydrolase expression (CEL7A: 57.8%, CEL6A: 67.8%). This first transcriptomic characterization of the CEL1B knockout strain reveals its dual opposing roles in modulating cellulase expression in response to lactose versus sophorose, providing new strategies for optimizing inducer-specific enzyme production in T. reesei. Full article

This manuscript proposes a fast transient simulation method based on PEEC to model overvoltage caused by spark gap and disconnecting switch operations in UHV series compensation (FSC). It proposes a simulation method based on the Partial Element Equivalent Circuit (PEEC) for modeling the fast transient processes associated with the operation of primary equipment in UHV FSC. Initially, a multi-conductor system model for both primary and secondary equipment on the cascade platform is developed. Then, the lumped components′ modeling of primary equipment and secondary equipment is added on the basis of multi-conductor model. Through simulation, the rapid transient overvoltage of primary equipment and the electromagnetic disturbance of the secondary system are analyzed. The simulation results provide insights into the distribution of fast transient overvoltage and the transient electromagnetic disturbance along the bus, from the low-voltage bus to the high-potential platform, under various primary equipment operating conditions. These findings provide a basis for theoretical analysis of the layout of sensor devices on platform and the design of electromagnetic shielding for interference-prone systems on platform. Full article

The mismatch between the rapid expansion of breeding scale and outdated techniques has hindered the development of the sea cucumber (A. japonicus) industry. Our previous work revealed that ecological seedling breeding can produce red-colored A. japonicus, a phenotype not observed in traditional artificial breeding, where individuals are typically green. To investigate the molecular and genetic basis of this novel red coloration, we compared the growth conditions of red sea cucumbers and green sea cucumbers, as well as the differences in the pigment composition, gene expression and metabolites of their body walls. Red individuals showed higher body length and weight, and elevated levels of astaxanthin, lutein, canthaxanthin, and β-carotene in the body wall. Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses identified differentially expressed genes and metabolites associated with pigmentation. In particular, FMO2 and WDR18, involved in the cytochrome P450 drug metabolism pathway, were significantly upregulated in red individuals and are known to play roles in pigment biosynthesis and light signal perception. Key metabolites such as astaxanthin and fucoxanthin were implicated in body color formation. Moreover, genes in the arachidonic acid metabolism pathway were highly expressed, suggesting that dietary factors may contribute to pigment synthesis and accumulation. These findings provide novel insights into the mechanisms underlying body color variation in A. japonicus and offer potential for improved breeding strategies. Full article

The utilization of thermal energy from co-produced water during natural gas production offers a promising pathway to enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. This study proposes a techno-economic evaluation model to assess the feasibility and profitability of geothermal energy recovery from co-produced water in marginal gas wells. A wellbore fluid flow and heat transfer model is developed and validated against field data, with deviations in calculated wellhead temperature and pressure within 10%, demonstrating the model’s reliability. Sensitivity analyses are conducted to investigate the influence of key technical and economic parameters on project performance. The results show that electricity price, heat price, and especially government one-off subsidies have a significant impact on the net present value (NPV), whereas the effects of insulation length and annular fluid thermal conductivity are comparatively limited. Under optimal conditions—including 2048 m of insulated tubing, annular protection fluid with a thermal conductivity of 0.4 W/(m·°C), a 30% increase in heat and electricity prices, and a 30% government capital subsidy—the project breaks even in the 14th year, with the 50-year NPV reaching 0.896 M$. This study provides a practical framework for evaluating and optimizing geothermal energy recovery from co-produced water, offering guidance for future sustainable energy development. Full article

This study focuses on S32654 super austenitic stainless steel (SASS) and systematically characterizes the morphology of the sigma (σ) phase and the segregation behavior of alloying elements in its as-cast microstructure. High-temperature confocal scanning laser microscopy (HT-CSLM) was employed to investigate the effect of the rare earth element yttrium (Y) on the solidification microstructure and σ phase precipitation behavior of SASS. The results show that the microstructure of SASS consists of austenite dendrites and interdendritic eutectoid structures. The eutectoid structures mainly comprise the σ phase and the γ₂ phase, exhibiting lamellar or honeycomb-like morphologies. Regarding elemental distribution, molybdenum displays a “concave” distribution pattern within the dendrites, with lower concentrations at the center and higher concentrations at the sides; when Mo locally exceeds beyond a certain threshold, it easily induces the formation of eutectoid structures. Mo is the most significant segregating element, with a segregation ratio as high as 1.69. The formation mechanism of the σ phase is attributed to the solid-state phase transformation of austenite (γ → γ₂ + σ). In the late stages of solidification, the concentration of chromium and Mo in the residual liquid phase increases, and due to insufficient diffusion, there are significant compositional differences between the interdendritic regions and the matrix. The enriched Cr and Mo cause the interdendritic austenite to become supersaturated, leading to solid-state phase transformation during subsequent cooling, thereby promoting σ phase precipitation. The overall phase transformation process can be summarized as L → L + γ → γ → γ + γ₂ + σ. Y microalloying has a significant influence on the solidification process. The addition of Y increases the nucleation temperature of austenite, raises nucleation density, and refines the solidification microstructure. However, Y addition also leads to an increased amount of eutectoid structures. This is primarily because Y broadens the solidification temperature range of the alloy and prolongs grain growth perio, which aggravates the microsegregation of elements such as Cr and Mo. Moreover, Y raises the initial precipitation temperature of the σ phase and enhances atomic diffusion during solidification, further promoting σ phase precipitation during the subsequent eutectoid transformation. Full article

LiDAR-based simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) techniques are commonly applied in high-precision mapping and positioning for mobile platforms. However, the vertical resolution limitations of multi-beam spinning LiDAR sensors can significantly impair vertical estimation accuracy. This challenge is accentuated in scenarios involving fewer-line or cost-effective spinning LiDARs, where vertical features are sparse. To address this issue, we introduce LIO-GC, which effectively extracts ground features and integrates them into a factor graph to rectify vertical accuracy. Unlike conventional methods relying on geometric features for ground plane segmentation, our approach leverages a self-adaptive strategy that considers the uneven point cloud distribution and inconsistency due to ground fluctuations. By optimizing laser range factors, ground feature constraints, and loop closure factors using graph optimization frameworks, our method surpasses current approaches, demonstrating superior performance through evaluation on open-source and newly collected datasets. Full article

In pipe jacking construction, thixotropic slurry critically governs lubrication, friction reduction, and ground support. This study evaluated slurry performance through six parameters: specific gravity (SG), pH, fluid loss (FL), water separation rate (WSR), filter cake thickness (FCT), and funnel viscosity (FV). Orthogonal experiments optimizing bentonite, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃) ratios established 10 wt.% bentonite, 0.3 wt.% CMC, and 0.4 wt.% Na₂CO₃ as the optimal formulation. Subsequently, to address performance limitations in challenging conditions, this study introduces hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) as a novel additive, with potential advantages under high-salinity and variable pH conditions. Comparative experiments demonstrated that HEC, as a non-ionic water-soluble cellulose, not only significantly increases FV and reduces FL while maintaining SG, FCT, and WSR within acceptable thresholds, but also exhibits superior pH stability compared to CMC. Based on the aforementioned results, interface friction characterization tests were conducted on representative slurry formulations with varying FVs, quantitatively demonstrating the viscosity-dependent friction-reduction performance. Complementary scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of three distinct thixotropic slurry compositions systematically revealed their microstructural characteristics, with microscopic evidence confirming the excellent compatibility between HEC and thixotropic slurry matrix. These findings highlight HEC’s potential as an effective alternative in pipe jacking, particularly in demanding geological environments. Full article

This study investigates the interaction between airflow and low-density bulk particles within vertical screw conveyors and examines its impact on conveying performance. A combined simulation approach integrating the Discrete Element Method and Computational Fluid Dynamics was employed to model both single-phase particle flow and gas–solid two-phase flow. A periodic model was developed based on the structural characteristics of the conveyor. Particle motion dynamics under both single-phase and coupled two-phase conditions were analyzed using EDEM and coupled Fluent-EDEM simulations. The effects of key operational parameters, including screw speed, filling rate, and helix angle, on mass flow rate were systematically evaluated. A comprehensive performance index was established to quantify conveying efficiency, and its validity was confirmed through analysis of variance on the regression model. Finally, the response surface methodology was applied to optimize parameters and determine the optimal combination of screw speed and filling rate to enhance mass flow efficiency. The results indicate that the gas–solid two-phase flow model provides a more accurate representation of real-world conveying dynamics. Future research may extend the model to accommodate more complex material conditions. Full article

Household loads are becoming dominant in virtual power plants (VPP). However, their dispatch potential has not yet been explored due to the lack of detailed user power management. To solve this issue, a novel two-layer user energy management strategy based on HG-multi-agent reinforcement learning has been proposed in this paper. Firstly, a novel two-layer optimization framework is established, where the upper layer is applied to coordinate the scheduling and benefit allocation among various stakeholders and the lower layer is applied to execute intelligent decision-making for users. Secondly, the mathematical model for the framework is established, where a detailed household power management model is proposed in the lower layer, and the generated predicted power demands are used to replace the conventional aggregate model in the upper layer. As a result, the energy consumption behaviors of household users can be precisely described in the scheduling scheme. Furthermore, an HG-multi-agent reinforcement-based method is applied to accelerate the game-solving process. Case study results indicate that the proposed method leads to a reduction in user costs and an increase in VPP profit. Full article

Ambient ozone (O₃) pollution, which has become a global problem, is associated with damage to various biological systems, as determined by many studies. However, there is limited experimental evidence regarding the systemic damage induced by O₃ exposure, and there are few associated studies on mice. In the present investigation, we constructed a subacute C57BL/6J female mouse model involving exposure to 0, 0.5, 1, or 2 ppm O₃ for 28 days (3 h/day). Body weights, pulmonary function, hematology, serum biochemistry, inflammatory factors, and injuries to various organs were assessed for O₃-exposed mice. After O₃ exposure, especially to 2 ppm O₃, mice showed a loss of body weight, abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism, respiratory and nervous system injuries, an inflammatory response, and pathological changes, which supported the data reported for epidemiology studies. In addition, the IL-6 levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), the lungs, the livers, the kidneys, and the brains were increased, which indicated that IL-6 was associated with the damage to various organs induced by O₃ exposure. The present report highlights the pathological injury to various organs and provides a basis for further studies of the molecular mechanisms associated with O₃ exposure. Full article

(1) Background: A safe and effective nucleic acid sample transportation method was developed that is suitable for underdeveloped areas which lack advanced sequencing capabilities, specifically for virus genomic sequencing and infectious disease monitoring. (2) Methods: This study evaluated the use of Flinders Technology Associates (FTA) cards for transporting amplified whole-genome DNA from 120 SARS-CoV-2-positive nasopharyngeal swab samples in Sierra Leone. Nucleic acid extraction and whole-genome amplification were conducted at a local laboratory. Amplified products were applied to FTA Elute cards for room temperature shipment to China CDC for elution and sequencing. (3) Results: The FTA card method achieved a 9.6% recovery rate for amplicons, sufficient for viral genome sequencing. In total, 86 (71.7%) high-quality SRAS-CoV-2 genomic sequences were obtained, with the majority reaching depths exceeding 100X. Sequence analysis revealed co-circulation of Delta, Omicron, and B.1 lineages. Higher Ct values in the original sample significantly reduced coverage and depth, with Ct ≤ 27; 73.6% of samples yielded effective sequences. (4) Conclusions: Transportation of amplified nucleic acid samples using FTA cards enables virus genomic sequencing in resource-limited areas. This approach can potentially improve local virus surveillance and outbreak response capabilities. Further optimizations could improve sequence recovery rate. Implementing this method could significantly enhance sequencing accessibility in underdeveloped regions. Full article

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the role of the gut microbiome in androgenetic alopecia (AGA) among obese individuals using Mendelian randomization (MR), and to identify potential therapeutic targets for mitigating AGA in this population. Methods: Genomic data for 412 gut microbiomes, AGA, and obesity were obtained from genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Bidirectional MR was performed using inverse variance weighted (IVW) as the primary analysis method, complemented by sensitivity analyses. Potential therapeutic targets within the gut microbiome associated with AGA in obese individuals were identified. Results: Two gut microbiomes were identified as having a significant impact on obese individuals with AGA. Specifically, the abundance of the sulfoglycolysis pathway in gut bacteria was found to significantly increase the risk of both obesity and AGA. In contrast, the abundance of the de novo biosynthesis of the adenosine ribonucleotide pathway in gut bacteria was associated with a significant increase in the risk of obesity but a significant decrease in the risk of AGA. Conclusions: The abundance of gut bacterial pathways, including sulfoglycolysis and the de novo biosynthesis of adenosine ribonucleotides, can serve as potential therapeutic targets for managing obesity-associated AGA. These findings offer a novel research direction for the development of innovative diagnostic and treatment strategies for patients with obesity and AGA. Full article

Hyperosmolality-gated calcium-permeable cation channel protein denoted as OSCA, which are mechanosensitive pore-forming ion channels, play a pivotal role in plants’ responses to abiotic stressors. Notopterygium franchetii, an endemic perennial plant species distributed in the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau and its adjacent high-altitude regions, is likely to have undergone adaptive evolution in response to extreme abiotic stress conditions. The current study was conducted to characterize the genome-wide characteristics and phylogenetic evolution of the OSCA gene family in N. franchetii and identify its response patterns to drought and high-temperature stresses. We examined the gene family’s structural features, phylogenetic relationships, and response to abiotic stresses. The N. franchetii genome had 29 OSCA gene family members on 11 chromosomes. Subcellular localization showed they were mainly in the cell membrane, and a promoter cis-acting element study found that the OSCA gene family contained methyl jasmonate, abscisic acid, and various adversity and hormone response components. Under drought stress, most of the NofOSCAs genes showed a tendency to increase over time in the roots of N. franchetii, while in the aboveground parts, most of the NofOSCAs genes showed a tendency to increase and then decrease. The expression of different NofOSCAs genes in N. franchetii also showed alternating changes under high-temperature stress. Nine members of NofOSCAs were found to be linked to the PPI network, and these members were involved in membrane structure, transmembrane transport, and ion channel function. Our analysis of differential expression revealed that the expression of OSCA genes differed among the different N. franchetii tissues, with the roots exhibiting the highest average expression level, and many genes displayed tissue-specific high expression patterns. These results provided novel insights into the phylogenetic evolution and abiotic stress response mechanisms in the high-altitude medicinal herb N. franchetii. Full article