bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combination of β-glucan and Morus alba L. Leaf Extract Promotes Metabolic Benefits in Mice Fed a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Xu Jie , Wang Xiaojie , Cao Ke , Dong Zhizhong , Feng Zhihui , Liu Jiankang
Published: October 2017

β-glucan (BG) and mulberry have received increasing attention for their benefits as natural sources of metabolic health. In the current study, we investigated the synergetic beneficial effects of BG and mulberry leaf extract (MLE) in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Male C57BL6 mice were fed a HFD for twelve weeks to induce significant obesity and insulin resistance. BG and MLE were administrated orally throughout the feeding period. The administration of BG resulted in a significant reduction in body weight gain, perirenal fat mass, fasting insulin, serum lipids, serum inflammation markers, and fatty liver, showing systemic health improvement. Likewise, the administration of MLE showed benefits similar to BG, with the exception of body weight gain. In addition to the systemic benefits, the combination of BG and MLE resulted in a synergetic improvement in insulin sensitivity. Meanwhile, only the combination of BG and MLE significantly enhanced liver GST (Glutathione S-Transferase) activity and CuZn–SOD (Superoxide dismutase (Cu-Zn)) activity, resulting in a significant reduction in GSH/GSSG (Glutathione disulfide) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in the liver. These results further confirm the beneficial effects of BG and MLE on metabolic disorders and show that the combination of BG and MLE has synergetic effects.
Dietary Anthocyanins and Insulin Resistance: When Food Becomes a Medicine
Authors: Belwal Tarun , Nabavi Seyed , Nabavi Seyed , Habtemariam Solomon
Published: October 2017

Insulin resistance is an abnormal physiological state that occurs when insulin from pancreatic β-cells is unable to trigger a signal transduction pathway in target organs such as the liver, muscles and adipose tissues. The loss of insulin sensitivity is generally associated with persistent hyperglycemia (diabetes), hyperinsulinemia, fatty acids and/or lipid dysregulation which are often prevalent under obesity conditions. Hence, insulin sensitizers are one class of drugs currently employed to treat diabetes and associated metabolic disorders. A number of natural products that act through multiple mechanisms have also been identified to enhance insulin sensitivity in target organs. One group of such compounds that gained interest in recent years are the dietary anthocyanins. Data from their in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies are scrutinized in this communication to show their potential health benefit through ameliorating insulin resistance. Specific mechanism of action ranging from targeting specific signal transduction receptors/enzymes to the general antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of insulin resistance are presented.
Interfacial Hydrogen Bonds and Their Influence Mechanism on Increasing the Thermal Stability of Nano-SiO2-Modified Meta-Aramid Fibres
Authors: Tang Chao , Li Xu , Li Zhiwei , Hao Jian
Published: October 2017

For further analysis of the effect of nano-doping on the properties of high polymers and research into the mechanism behind modified interfacial hydrogen bonds, a study on the formation probability of nano-SiO2/meta-aramid fibre interfacial hydrogen bonds and the strengthening mechanism behind interfacial hydrogen bonds on the thermal stability of meta-aramid fibres using molecular dynamics is performed in this paper. First, the pure meta-aramid fibre and nano-SiO2/meta-aramid fibre mixed models with nanoparticle radiuses of 3, 5, 7 and 9 Å (1 Å = 10−1 nm) are built, and then the optimization process and dynamics simulation of the models are conducted. The dynamics simulation results indicate that the number of hydrogen bonds increase due to the doping by nano-SiO2 and that the number of interfacial hydrogen bonds increases with the nanoparticle radius. By analysing the hydrogen bond formation probability of all the atom pairs in the mixed model with pair correlation functions (PCFs), it can be observed that the hydrogen bond formation probability between the oxygen atom and hydrogen atom on the nanoparticle surface is the greatest. An effective way to increase the number of interfacial hydrogen bonds in nano-SiO2 and meta-aramid fibres is to increase the number of hydrogen atoms on the nano-silica surface and oxygen atoms in the meta-aramid fibre. By using the radial distribution function (RDF), the conclusion can be further drawn that the hydrogen bond formation probability is at a maximum when the atomic distance is 2.7–2.8 Å; therefore, increasing the number of atoms within this range can significantly increase the formation probability of hydrogen bonds. According to the results of chain movement, the existence of interfacial hydrogen bonds effectively limits the free movement of the molecular chains of meta-aramid fibres and enhances the thermal stability of meta-aramid fibres. The existence of interfacial hydrogen bonds is one of the important reasons for formation of the stable interface structure between nanoparticles and meta-aramid fibres. In addition, a nanoparticle with a small radius improves the interfacial hydrogen bond energy density and interfacial interaction energy density, enhancing the stability of the mixed model interface.
A Reaction Database for Small Molecule Pharmaceutical Processes Integrated with Process Information
Authors: Papadakis Emmanouil , Anantpinijwatna Amata , Woodley John , Gani Rafiqul
Published: October 2017

This article describes the development of a reaction database with the objective to collect data for multiphase reactions involved in small molecule pharmaceutical processes with a search engine to retrieve necessary data in investigations of reaction-separation schemes, such as the role of organic solvents in reaction performance improvement. The focus of this reaction database is to provide a data rich environment with process information available to assist during the early stage synthesis of pharmaceutical products. The database is structured in terms of reaction classification of reaction types; compounds participating in the reaction; use of organic solvents and their function; information for single step and multistep reactions; target products; reaction conditions and reaction data. Information for reactor scale-up together with information for the separation and other relevant information for each reaction and reference are also available in the database. Additionally, the retrieved information obtained from the database can be evaluated in terms of sustainability using well-known “green” metrics published in the scientific literature. The application of the database is illustrated through the synthesis of ibuprofen, for which data on different reaction pathways have been retrieved from the database and compared using “green” chemistry metrics.
Generative Adversarial Networks-Based Semi-Supervised Learning for Hyperspectral Image Classification
Authors: He Zhi , Liu Han , Wang Yiwen , Hu Jie
Published: October 2017

Classification of hyperspectral image (HSI) is an important research topic in the remote sensing community. Significant efforts (e.g., deep learning) have been concentrated on this task. However, it is still an open issue to classify the high-dimensional HSI with a limited number of training samples. In this paper, we propose a semi-supervised HSI classification method inspired by the generative adversarial networks (GANs). Unlike the supervised methods, the proposed HSI classification method is semi-supervised, which can make full use of the limited labeled samples as well as the sufficient unlabeled samples. Core ideas of the proposed method are twofold. First, the three-dimensional bilateral filter (3DBF) is adopted to extract the spectral-spatial features by naturally treating the HSI as a volumetric dataset. The spatial information is integrated into the extracted features by 3DBF, which is propitious to the subsequent classification step. Second, GANs are trained on the spectral-spatial features for semi-supervised learning. A GAN contains two neural networks (i.e., generator and discriminator) trained in opposition to one another. The semi-supervised learning is achieved by adding samples from the generator to the features and increasing the dimension of the classifier output. Experimental results obtained on three benchmark HSI datasets have confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed method , especially with a limited number of labeled samples.
Spectrally-Spatially Regularized Low-Rank and Sparse Decomposition: A Novel Method for Change Detection in Multitemporal Hyperspectral Images
Authors: Chen Zhao , Wang Bin
Published: October 2017

Change detection (CD) for multitemporal hyperspectral images (HSI) can be approached as classification consisting of two steps, change feature extraction and change identification. This paper is focused on binary classification of the changed and the unchanged samples, which is the essential case of change detection. Meanwhile, it is challenging to extract clean change features from heavily corrupted spectral change vectors (SCV) of multitemporal HSI. The corruptions can be characterized as gross sample-specific errors, i.e., outliers, and small entry-wise noise following Gaussian distribution. To address the issue, this paper proposes a novel Spectrally-Spatially (SS) Regularized Low-Rank and Sparse Decomposition (LRSD) model, denoted by LRSD_SS. It decomposes the SCV into three components, a locally smoothed low-rank matrix for the clean change features, a sparse matrix for the outliers and an error matrix for the small Gaussian noise. The proposed method is effective in change feature extraction and robust to noise corruptions as it exploits the underlying data structures of the SCV, especially local spectral-spatial smoothness. It is also efficient since there is a closed-form solution for the feature component in the optimization problem of LRSD_SS. The experimental results in the paper show that the proposed method outperforms several classic methods which only deal with the spectral domain of image samples, as well as some state-of-the-art methods which use both spectral and spatial information
Effects of Conservation Tillage and Nutrient Management Practices on Soil Fertility and Productivity of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)–Rice System in North Eastern Region of India
Authors: Yadav Gulab , Datta Rahul , Imran Pathan Shamina , Lal Rattan , Meena Ram , Babu Subhash , Das Anup , Bhowmik S. , Datta Mrinmoy , Saha Poulami , Mishra Pawan
Published: October 2017

Over centuries and even today, traditional farming practices are well performed without any ecological degradation. However, management practice such as conservative tillage combined with nutrient and residue could increase the crop production as well as soil fertility. A three-year replicated study was conducted to assess the effects of agronomic modification of traditional farming practices on productivity and sustainability of rice (wet season)–rice (dry season) system (RRS). The replacement of farmers practice (T2) with conservation effective tillage (no-till (NT)) and integrated nutrient management (INM) practice along with 30% residue retention (T5) enhanced the straw, root and biomass yield of both wet season rice (WR), dry season rice (DR) and system as a whole over T2. Treatment T5 recorded significantly lower soil bulk density (ρb) and higher pH than the T2 after three years of the experiment. Further, treatment T5 increased total soil organic carbon (2.8%), total soil organic carbon stock (2.8%), carbon sequestration rate (336.5 kg ha−1 year−1), cumulative carbon stock (142.9%) and carbon retention efficiency (141.0%) over T2 of 0–20 cm depth after three year. The soil microbial biomass carbon concentration was significantly the highest under T5. Similarly, the dehydrogenase activity was the maximum under T5. Adoption of conservation tillage and nutrient management practice involving NT and INM along with residue retention can enhance the system productivity, and C and N sequestration in paddy soils is thereby contributing to the sustainability of the RRS.
Toward Value Co-Creation: Increasing Women’s Presence in Management Positions through Competition against a Set Target
Authors: Comeig Irene , Jaramillo-Gutiérrez Ainhoa , Ramírez Federico
Published: October 2017

Despite empirical evidence that women’s presence in management positions is a source of value co-creation for firms, these positions are still male-dominated. Some evidence from experimental economics suggests that one reason for this imbalance is that women shy away from competition. However, most of these studies have focused on competition systems that pit individuals against each other. We present an economic laboratory experiment that compares competition against others with competition against a set target. The crucial difference is that whereas the former involves competing against opponents, the latter does not. Our results show that significantly more women are willing to compete against a set target than against others. Furthermore, there is no reduction in men’s participation and no general efficiency reduction. Our findings suggest that firms that aim at value co-creation and sustainability through a gender-neutral promotion mechanism should introduce competition against a set target and reduce competition against others. This paper contributes to dispelling stereotypes about women’s reluctance to compete.
A Keystone Methylobacterium Strain in Biofilm Formation in Drinking Water
Authors: Tsagkari Erifyli , Keating Ciara , Couto Jillian , Sloan William
Published: October 2017

The structure of biofilms in drinking water systems is influenced by the interplay between biological and physical processes. Bacterial aggregates in bulk fluid are important in seeding biofilm formation on surfaces. In simple pure and co-cultures, certain bacteria, including Methylobacterium, are implicated in the formation of aggregates. However, it is unclear whether they help to form aggregates in complex mixed bacterial communities. Furthermore, different flow regimes could affect the formation and destination of aggregates. In this study, real drinking water mixed microbial communities were inoculated with the Methylobacterium strain DSM 18358. The propensity of Methylobacterium to promote aggregation was monitored under both stagnant and flow conditions. Under stagnant conditions, Methylobacterium enhanced bacterial aggregation even when it was inoculated in drinking water at 1% relative abundance. Laminar and turbulent flows were developed in a rotating annular reactor. Methylobacterium was found to promote a higher degree of aggregation in turbulent than laminar flow. Finally, fluorescence in situ hybridisation images revealed that Methylobacterium aggregates had distinct spatial structures under the different flow conditions. Overall, Methylobacterium was found to be a key strain in the formation of aggregates in bulk water and subsequently in the formation of biofilms on surfaces.
Ester formation at the liquid–solid interface
Authors: T. N. Ha Nguyen , Gopakumar Thiruvancheril G , D. C. Yen Nguyen , Mende Carola , Smykalla Lars , Schlesinger Maik , Buschbeck Roy , Rüffer Tobias , Lang Heinrich , Mehring Michael , Hietschold Michael
Published: October 2017

A chemical reaction (esterification) within a molecular monolayer at the liquid–solid interface without any catalyst was studied using ambient scanning tunneling microscopy. The monolayer consisted of a regular array of two species, an organic acid (trimesic acid) and an alcohol (undecan-1-ol or decan-1-ol), coadsorbed out of a solution of the acid within the alcohol at the interface of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) (0001) substrate. The monoester was observed promptly after reaching a threshold either related to the increased packing density of the adsorbate layer (which can be controlled by the concentration of the trimesic acid within the alcoholic solution via sonication or extended stirring) or by reaching a threshold with regards to the deposition temperature. Evidence that esterification takes place directly at the liquid–solid interface was strongly supported.
A High‐Density, Sequence‐Enriched Genetic Map of Hordeum bulbosum and Its Collinearity to H. vulgare
Authors: Wendler Neele , Mascher Martin , Himmelbach Axel , Bini Federica , Kumlehn Jochen , Stein Nils
Published: October 2017

Hordeum bulbosum L., a wild grass and close relative of cultivated barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), gained importance in plant breeding as inducer of haploid plants in crosses with barley and also as a genetic resource for introgression of disease resistance/tolerance genes into cultivated barley. Genetic mapping of genes introgressed from H. bulbosum is a prerequisite for their efficient utilization in barley breeding, but often hindered due to repressed recombination. The mechanism underlying the reduced frequency or lack of meiotic recombination between H. bulbosum and H. vulgare chromatin in introgressed segments is not understood. It may be explained by lack of genome collinearity or other structural differences between both genomes. In the present study, two F1 mapping populations of H. bulbosum were analyzed by genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS) and four dense H. bulbosum genetic maps containing 1449, 996, 720, and 943 SNP markers, respectively, revealed overall a high degree of collinearity for all seven homeologous linkage groups of H. vulgare and H. bulbosum. The patterns of distribution of recombination along chromosomes differed between barley and H. bulbosum, indicating organizational differences between both genomes.
A Six-planet System around the Star HD 34445
Authors: Vogt Steven S. , Butler R. Paul , Burt Jennifer , Tuomi Mikko , Laughlin Gregory , Holden Brad , Teske Johanna K. , Shectman Stephen A. , Crane Jeffrey D. , Díaz Matías , Thompson Ian B. , Arriagada Pamela , Keiser Sandy
Published: October 2017

We present a new precision radial velocity (RV) data set that reveals a multi-planet system orbiting the G0V star HD 34445. Our 18-year span consists of 333 precision RV observations, 56 of which were previously published and 277 of which are new data from the Keck Observatory, Magellan at Las Campanas Observatory, and the Automated Planet Finder at Lick Observatory. These data indicate the presence of six planet candidates in Keplerian motion about the host star with periods of 1057, 215, 118, 49, 677, and 5700 days, and minimum masses of 0.63, 0.17, 0.1, 0.05, 0.12, and 0.38 M
J, respectively. The HD 34445 planetary system, with its high degree of multiplicity, its long orbital periods, and its induced stellar RV half-amplitudes in the range 2 m s−1 ≲ K ≲ 5 m s−1 is fundamentally unlike either our own solar system (in which only Jupiter and Saturn induce significant reflex velocities for the Sun), or the Kepler multiple-transiting systems (which tend to have much more compact orbital configurations).
Revealing the Cosmic Web-dependent Halo Bias
Authors: Yang Xiaohu , Zhang Youcai , Lu Tianhuan , Wang Huiyuan , Shi Feng , Tweed Dylan , Li Shijie , Luo Wentao , Lu Yi , Yang Lei
Published: October 2017

Halo bias is the one of the key ingredients of the halo models. It was shown at a given redshift to be only dependent, to the first order, on the halo mass. In this study, four types of cosmic web environments—clusters, filaments, sheets, and voids—are defined within a state-of-the-art high-resolution N-body simulation. Within these environments, we use both halo-dark matter cross correlation and halo-halo autocorrelation functions to probe the clustering properties of halos. The nature of the halo bias differs strongly between the four different cosmic web environments described here. With respect to the overall population, halos in clusters have significantly lower biases in the

mass range. In other environments, however, halos show extremely enhanced biases up to a factor 10 in voids for halos of mass

. Such a strong cosmic web environment dependence in the halo bias may play an important role in future cosmological and galaxy formation studies. Within this cosmic web framework, the age dependency of halo bias is found to be only significant in clusters and filaments for relatively small halos

.
Color Me Intrigued: The Discovery of iPTF 16fnm, an SN 2002cx–like Object
Authors: Miller A. A. , Kasliwal M. M. , Cao Y. , Adams S. M. , Goobar A. , Knežević S. , Laher R. R. , Lunnan R. , Masci F. J. , Nugent P. E. , Perley D. A. , Petrushevska T. , Quimby R. M. , Rebbapragada U. D. , Sollerman J. , Taddia F. , Kulkarni S. R.
Published: October 2017

Modern wide-field, optical time-domain surveys must solve a basic optimization problem: maximize the number of transient discoveries or minimize the follow-up needed for the new discoveries. Here, we describe the Color Me Intrigued experiment, the first from the intermediate Palomar Transient Factory (iPTF) to search for transients simultaneously in the g
PTF and R
PTF bands. During the course of this experiment, we discovered iPTF 16fnm, a new member of the 02cx-like subclass of Type Ia supernovae (SNe). iPTF 16fnm peaked at

, making it the second-least-luminous known SN Ia. iPTF 16fnm exhibits all the hallmarks of the 02cx-like class: (i) low luminosity at peak, (ii) low ejecta velocities, and (iii) a non-nebular spectrum several months after peak. Spectroscopically, iPTF 16fnm exhibits a striking resemblance to two other low-luminosity 02cx-like SNe: SN 2007qd and SN 2010ae. iPTF 16fnm and SN 2005hk decline at nearly the same rate, despite a 3 mag difference in brightness at peak. When considering the full subclass of 02cx-like SNe, we do not find evidence for a tight correlation between peak luminosity and decline rate in either the g′ or r′ band. We measure the relative rate of 02cx-like SNe to normal SNe Ia and find

. We further examine the g′ − r′ evolution of 02cx-like SNe and find that their unique color evolution can be used to separate them from 91bg-like and normal SNe Ia. This selection function will be especially important in the spectroscopically incomplete Zwicky Transient Facility/Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST) era. Finally, we close by recommending that LSST periodically evaluate, and possibly update, its observing cadence to maximize transient science.
Effect of antibiotic, probiotic, and human rotavirus infection on colonisation dynamics of defined commensal microbiota in a gnotobiotic pig model
Authors: Huang H.-C. , Vlasova A.N. , Kumar A. , Kandasamy S. , Fischer D.D. , Deblais L. , Paim F.C. , Langel S.N. , Alhamo M.A. , Rauf A. , Shao L. , Saif L.J. , Rajashekara G.
Published: October 2017

We developed a gnotobiotic (Gn) pig model colonised with defined commensal microbiota (DMF) to provide a simplified and controlled system to study the interactions between intestinal commensals, antibiotics (ciprofloxacin, CIP), probiotics (Escherichia coli Nissle 1917, EcN) and virulent human rotavirus (VirHRV). The DMF included seven gut commensal species of porcine origin that mimic the predominant species in the infant gut. Gn piglets were divided into four groups: DMF control (non-treated), DMF+CIP (CIP treated), DMF+CIP+EcN (CIP/EcN treated), DMF+EcN (EcN treated) and inoculated orally with 105 cfu of each DMF strain. The pig gut was successfully colonised by all DMF species and established a simplified bacterial community by post-bacteria colonisation day (PBCD) 14/post-VirHRV challenge day (PCD) 0. Overall, Bifidobacterium adolescentis was commonly observed in faeces in all groups and time points. At PCD0, after six days of CIP treatment (DMF+CIP), we observed significantly decreased aerobic and anaerobic bacteria counts especially in jejunum (P<0.001), where no DMF species were detected in jejunum by T-RFLP. Following HRV challenge, 100% of pigs in DMF+CIP group developed diarrhoea with higher diarrhoea scores and duration as compared to all other groups. However, only 33% of pigs treated with EcN plus CIP developed diarrhoea. EcN treatment also enhanced the bacterial diversity and all seven DMF species were detected with a higher proportion of Bifidobacterium longum in jejunum in the DMF+CIP+EcN group on PBCD14/PCD0. Our results suggest that EcN increased the proportion of B. longum especially in jejunum and mitigated adverse impacts of antibiotic use during acute-infectious diarrhoea. The DMF model with a simplified gut commensal community can further our knowledge of how commensals and probiotics promote intestinal homeostasis and contribute to host health.
Lactobacillus plantarum IS-10506 supplementation reduced SCORAD in children with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Prakoeswa C.R.S. , Herwanto N. , Prameswari R. , Astari L. , Sawitri S. , Hidayati A.N. , Indramaya D.M. , Kusumowidagdo E.R. , Surono I.S.
Published: October 2017

Lactobacillus plantarum IS-10506 is a novel probiotic isolated from dadih, an Indonesian traditional fermented buffalo milk. It’s in vitro and in vivo probiotic properties have been assessed. Probiotic function has been shown in vivo by the suppression of allergic reactions in BALB/c mice through the action of T-regulatory cells cytokines by balancing Th1 and Th2 immune response. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic recurrent inflammatory skin disease characterised by the imbalance of Th1 and Th2. The aim of the study was to assess the probiotic function of L. plantarum IS-10506 in children with mild and moderate AD. A randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial comparing microencapsulated L. plantarum IS-10506 (1010 cfu/day) and placebo (skim milk-Avicel) twice daily for 12 weeks was conducted in an outpatient clinic on children with mild and moderate AD. The trial included 22 AD children divided into intervention and control groups of n=12 and n=10 patients, respectively. Scoring Atopic Dermatitis Index (SCORAD) and serum immunoglobulin E (IgE), interleukin (IL)-4, interferon gamma (IFN-γ), forkhead box P3 (Foxp3+)/IL-10, and IL-17 levels were assessed. Demographic and baseline characteristics were not significantly different between the two groups. SCORAD and levels of IL-4, IFN-γ, and IL-17 were significantly lower in the probiotic group than those in the placebo group, while the IgE levels were not significantly changed. The ratio of Foxp3+ to IL-10 was significantly higher in the probiotic group than that in placebo group. Supplementation with the probiotic L. plantarum IS-10506 offered a potential treatment for children with AD. Further long-term studies with a larger sample size are required to confirm the therapeutic efficacy of L. plantarum IS-10506 in AD.
Bacillus toyonensis improves immune response in the mice vaccinated with recombinant antigen of bovine herpesvirus type 5
Authors: Santos F.D.S. , Menegon Y.A. , Piraine R.E.A. , Rodrigues P.R.C. , Cunha R.C. , Leite F.P. Leivas
Published: October 2017

Probiotics modulate the immune response and can increase the effectiveness of vaccines. Bacillus toyonensis is widely used as a probiotic in animal feed. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of B. toyonensis administration on the immune response to an experimental recombinant vaccine against bovine herpesvirus type 5 (BoHV-5) in mice. Mice were vaccinated with BoHV-5 recombinant glycoprotein D and supplemented with the probiotic B. toyonensis in two regimes: one group received the probiotic only during seven days prior to the initial vaccination while the second group was given the probiotic throughout the experimental period of seven weeks. Animals supplemented with probiotic B. toyonensis in two regimes showed an increase in total immunoglobulin (Ig)G, IgG1 and IgG2a levels in serum, in addition to higher titres of antibodies capable of neutralising the BoHV-5 virus than non-supplemented animals (P<0.05). Splenocytes from the supplemented mice had higher mRNA transcription levels of cytokines interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-12. These results show that the use of this probiotic may significantly contribute to the response elicited by recombinant vaccines, especially those that rely on increasing antibody and cell-mediated immune responses for efficacy. Further, the data support an immunomodulatory effect for probiotic B. toyonensis and imply that enhance effect on the immune response against a BoHV-5 recombinant vaccine in mice.
Our gut microbiota: a long walk to homeostasis
Authors: Dicks L.M.T. , Geldenhuys J. , Mikkelsen L.S. , Brandsborg E. , Marcotte H.
Published: October 2017

The microbiome of the human gastrointestinal tract (GIT) consists of billions of bacteria, fungi and viruses, of which bacteria play the most important role in nutrition, immune development, production of vitamins and maintaining a well-balanced (homeostatic) microbial population. Many papers have been published on the microbiota in the human GIT, but little is known about the first group of bacteria that colonises an infant. The intestinal tract of an unborn is, despite general belief, not sterile, but contains bacteria that have been transferred from the mother. This opens a new research field and may change our understanding about the role bacteria play in early life, the selection of strains with probiotic properties and the treatment of diseases related to bacterial infections. Differences in bacterial populations isolated from meconia may provide answers to the prevention of certain forms of diabetes. More research is now focusing on the effect that a genetically diverse group, versus a much simpler microbial population, may have on the development of a homeostatic gut microbiome. The effect different bacterial species have on the gut-associated lymphoid tissue and cascade of immune responses has been well researched, but we still fail in identifying the ideal group of intestinal bacteria and if we do, it will certainly not be possible to maintain homeostasis with so many challenges the gut faces. Changes in diet, antibiotics, food preservatives and stress are some of the factors we would like to control, but more than often fail to do so. The physiology and genetics of the GIT changes with age and so the microbiome. This review summarises factors involved in the regulation of a gut microbiome.
How high-fat diet and high-intensity interval training affect lipid metabolism in the liver and visceral adipose tissue of rats
Authors: Ebrahimi M. , Fathi R. , Pirsaraei Z. Ansari , Garakani E. Talebi , Najafi M.
Published: October 2017

Lipogenic and lipolytic pathways are tightly regulated by nuclear receptors and binding proteins, such as farnesoid x receptor (FXR) and sterol regulatory element binding protein 1c (SREBP-1c). We designed this research to study the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and high-fat diet (HFD) on hepatic and adipose FXR and SREBP-1c gene expression beside the plasma levels of lipid profile and insulin. 24 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into normal (~12% fat) and HFD (~56% fat) groups with or without participating in the 8 weeks HIIT protocol. Results from two-way ANOVA and Pearson tests (P<0.05) showed that the HFD rats experienced a larger weight gain correlated with dyslipidemia and hyperinsulinemia, higher hepatic and adipose SREBP-1c expression and lower hepatic FXR expression compared with normal diet fed rats. Although HIIT rats showed higher hepatic FXR and lower hepatic and adipose SREBP-1c expression and lower weight gain compared with untrained rats, plasma lipid profile levels had not any significant difference between trained and untrained rats. Interestingly, hepatic FXR expression was negatively correlated with weight gain and SREBP-1c expression in both tissues while only the hepatic SREBP-1c was positively correlated to insulin levels. In conclusion, HFD-induced dyslipidemia could occur via the activation of the hepatic SREBP-1c pathway under the insulin effect. Although HIIT rats showed lower SREBP-1c correlated to hepatic FXR activation it seems diet is more effective on lipid profile than HIIT. Also, in presence of HFD, HIIT only affects adipose lipolysis.
An HPLC-FLD method to measure ochratoxin A in teff (Eragrostis tef) and wheat (Triticum spp.) destined for the local Ethiopian market
Authors: Geremew T. , Haesaert G. , Abate D. , Audenaert K.
Published: October 2017

Wheat (Triticum spp.) is among the top cereal grains in terms of production and consumption in Ethiopia. It can be typically infected with ochratoxin A (OTA) producing fungi both in the field and during storage resulting in animal and human health problems. While there is a wealth of information on the presence of OTA in wheat, the incidence of OTA in teff (Eragrostis tef), a cereal grain produced and consumed traditionally in Ethiopia and Eretria, remains insufficient. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method for OTA analysis in teff and wheat flours and to analyse the characteristic distribution of OTA in teff and wheat flours samples destined for local consumption in Ethiopia using a survey-approach. Wheat and teff flour samples were examined for OTA contamination. OTA was detected in 20% of the teff flour samples and in 50% of the wheat flour samples with median contamination levels of 1.04 μg/kg (limit of detection (LOD) = 0.78 μg/kg) and 7.23 μg/kg (LOD = 0.58 μg/kg) respectively. The validated method for OTA detection and quantification in teff and wheat using HPLC meets the European Union performance criteria for OTA (EC 2006/401) and the Eurachem Guideline validation requirements. An insight into the occurrence of OTA in teff is very valuable because the cereal might provide a lower OTA risk alternative for wheat in Ethiopia. In addition, for the world market, an insight into the occurrence of OTA in teff is important in the light of an increasing interest in teff as a gluten free cereal.
Potential of lactic acid bacteria for the reduction of fumonisin exposure in African fermented maize based foods
Authors: Dawlal P. , Brabet C. , Thantsha M.S. , Buys E.M.
Published: October 2017

Maize, which contributes to a large portion of the African diet and serves as the base substrate for many fermented cereal products, has been reported to be contaminated with fumonisins. This study aimed to evaluate thein vitro ability of predominant lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in African traditional fermented maize based foods (ogi andmahewu) to bind fumonisin B1 (FB1) and B2 (FB2), as well as the stability of the complex at different pH and temperatures, in particular observed duringogi fermentation and under its storage conditions (time, temperature). The percentage of bound fumonisins was calculated after analysing the level of fumonisins not bound to LAB after a certain incubation time, by HPLC. The results revealed the ability of all tested LAB strains to bind both fumonisins, with binding efficiencies varying between strains and higher for FB2. Binding of fumonisins increased with a decrease in pH from 6 to 4 (observed during theogi fermentation process) and from 4 to 2 (acidic pH in the stomach), and an increase in temperature (from 30 to 37 °C). The percentage of FB1 and FB2 bound to LAB at pH 4 decreased after 6 days of storage at 30 °C for all LAB strains, except forLactobacillus plantarum (R1096) for which it increased.Lactobacillus species (L. plantarum andLactobacillus delbrueckii) were the most efficient in binding FB1 and FB2, whereasPediococcus sp. was less efficient. Therefore, theLactobacillus strains tested in this study can be recommended as potential starter cultures for African traditional fermented maize based foods having detoxifying and probiotic properties.
Decision Procedure for Efficient Data Acquisition for Distinct Energy Prognosis Models
Authors: Süße Marian , Stoldt Johannes , Schlegel Andreas , Putz Matthias
Published: October 2017

The current challenges for enterprises are heavily linked to resource and energy efficiency, a result of political guidelines and the overall consciousness for environmental issues in society. Thus, the impact of energy efficiency on factory planning and production planning is of undeniable importance. Adequate consumption information utilising various depiction methods has become a necessity in this respect. Yet, only few works provide information on the efficiency of energy data acquisition methods. This paper proposes a methodological framework for defining an efficient procedure for energy data acquisition in accordance with the depiction or prognosis method. A preliminary literature review indicates the variety of methods for energy data depiction and prognosis. The classification of these methods regarding planning state and planning levels leads to the estimation of relevant input data. Based on the fundamental investigation of necessary input data the decision approach is developed with a general heuristic decision model and incorporates the Analytic Hierarchy Process for quantification and solution of the overall decision problem. Therefore the integration of multiple decision criteria enables the consideration of different quantitative and qualitative influences. As a result the whole approach supports the collaborative identification of means for energy data acquisition and is applicable in several circumstances where energy data needs to be gathered efficiently. The decision procedures exemplary application has shown the general proficiency of the approach and that excessive data acquisition which contradicts efficiency is avoidable.
Efficient near Net-Shape Production of High Energy Rare Earth Magnets by Laser Beam Melting
Authors: Urban Nikolaus , Meyer Alexander , Kreitlein Sven , Leicht Felix , Franke Jörg
Published: October 2017

In this publication we report on our progress in investigating the energy efficient production of rare earth permanent magnets by Laser Beam Melting in the powder bed (LBM). This innovative additive manufacturing process offers the potential to produce magnets of complex geometries without an energy intensive oven sintering step. Another advantage that increases the efficiency of this possible new process route is the high degree of material utilization due to a near net shape production of the magnets. Hence only little material is wasted during a post processing machining step. The main challenge in processing rare earth magnet alloys by means of LBM is the brittle mechanical behavior of the material and the change in microstructure due to the complete remelting of the magnet powder. We therefor expanded the parameter study presented in previous work in order to further increase relative density and magnetic properties of the specimens. In this context process stability and reproducibility could also be increased. This was achieved by investigating the impact of different exposure patterns and varying laser spot sizes. Simultaneously to the experiments the energy consumption of the LBM process was measured and compared with conventional rare earth magnet production routes.
Theoretical Investigation of the Influence of Different Chamber Geometries on the Agglomeration Capacity of Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Gross Daniel , Ferguson Nikolas , Amon Sven , Hanenkamp Nico
Published: October 2017

This paper addresses the complicated process of carbon dioxide particle formation (agglomeration), which is essential for carbon dioxide snow blasting. Most effective process methods in this field possess a dedicated location where agglomeration is likely to occur. Research has shown that successful agglomeration is a key factor when cleaning or deburring with solid carbon dioxide. The following describes the mechanisms of carbon dioxide (CO2) snow agglomeration inside this so-called agglomeration chamber. The elements of larger size, as well as an irregular shape directly lead to the increase of effectiveness. Therefore, it is necessary to determine how to improve this process for the purpose of dealing with difficult workpieces and materials and broaden the possibilities of carbon dioxide blasting. One of the main factors of agglomeration is turbulence. In short, the more turbulent activity that takes place, the better is the particle formation of solid carbon dioxide. Numerous geometries were created with different inserts, such as static mixers or angled tubes, in hope to increase turbulence. The basic idea is to implement these geometries in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finally proceed to an evaluation and comparison of the simulation results, in order to select the best candidates for optimization and realization.
Key Figures for Production Control in Non-Ferrous Melting and Die-Casting Plants Based on the Assessment of the Operating State
Authors: Schlüter Wolfgang , Schmidt Jörg , Henninger Matthias , Krieg Jakob
Published: October 2017

The study focuses on the examination and development of simulation based measures to increase the energy efficiency and productivity in the non-ferrous melting and die-casting industries. The high energy consumption of gas-fueled melting furnaces is caused by production fluctuations in the foundry. Currently the control of the operating processes is decentralized and based on empirical process experience and inaccurate information of the operating state. The acquisition of the plant wide supply situation of the die casting machines with liquid aluminum is an essential condition for solving the problem of inefficient working melting furnaces. Their representation is grounded on specially defined key figures.In a first step the filling levels of the different liquid aluminum sources (melting furnaces) are considered as one unit as well as the filling levels of the different liquid aluminum sinks (die-casting machines). This assumption leads to the so called storage distribution key figure which describes the current supply situation of the die casting plants with liquid aluminum. This single key figure is able to assess the complex plant wide supply state. This key figure allows the real time evaluation of the operating state (production safety). Another important key figure is the residual running time of the die casting machines. Both key figures can be used for controlling the operating processes, too. A simulation is needed in order to analyze these operating processes because otherwise it would interfere with the real production process. The simulation of the complete material flow of the aluminum starts with its delivery in solid and liquid form, continues with the melting in furnaces and leads to the production process in the die casting machines. Energetic key figures such as the gas consumption and the specific melting rate of the melting operation can be determined by bidirectional coupling with a physically based energy model of the melting furnaces. The simulation model was validated by measured data obtained in an industrial plant.The storage distribution key figure and the residual running time key figure can be used in order to provide Smart Services to increase energy efficiency and productivity in specific operating states. Adjusting the cleaning times of the melting furnaces or controlling the fork lift trucks are potential examples. The results of initial simulations show the effects of different control measures based on these key figures. Smart Services in real operation can be implemented as an assistance system but for the implementation in real operation a central data processing is indispensable prerequisite.
Automatization of the Cable-Routing-Process within the Automated Production of Wiring Systems
Authors: Heisler Paul , Steinmetz Patrick , Yoo In Seong , Franke Jörg
Published: October 2017

The wiring system is one of the most important and one of the most expensive part of modern passenger vehicles. It ́s production is done manually to nearly 100% since the early years of car manufacturing. Until today it wasn ́t possible to automatize these cost-intensive step of the car production in an effective and cost efficient way. This paper shows how the routing process of the wiring harness as a part of the whole production process can be automatized with easy and cost efficient production methods. Collaborative robots and 3D-printed prototypes of cable grippers were used to treat with the complexity of the job and to finally create a sustainable and cost efficient production system. Further the routing concept has been brought to a prototypical production cell which has been tested in various routing experiments at the institute’s laboratory. Finally, a discussion of the results brings up the strengths and weaknesses of the concept and shows possible solutions.
Investigation of Drag Reduction due to Dimpled Surfaces in Narrow Channels by Means of Flow Simulations
Authors: Praß Julian , Franke Jörg , Becker Stefan
Published: October 2017

Reduction of drag and flow resistance in systems containing moving fluids is a prominenttool to increase energy efficiency. Besides active flow control – such as moving surfaces or boundarylayer suction – passive techniques such as surface patterning by means of dimples are promising sinceno additional energy consumer is introduced into the system. Even though the effect of drag reductiondue to dimples has often been observed, the physical principals responsible for this effect are not yetunderstood. Most of the research concerning dimples and drag reduction published so far has beencarried out experimentally, not many numerical investigations on this topic have been done. The mainreason for this is that the tiny, transient flow structures generated in direct vicinity of dimples can noteasily be resolved in simulations. Even in case of time dependent numerical investigations it is notclear, whether and with which method of sub-grid scale modeling Large Eddy Simulations are capableof modeling these structures sufficiently. In this work we investigated different surfaces with dimpledepth to diameter ratios h/D reaching from 0.01 to 0.1 in channels of height H = 0.417D at Reynoldsnumbers ReD 5 830 and ReD 11 650 using steady state simulations with a k-omega-SST turbulencemodel. Drag reductions were observed for all setups h/D < 0.08 compared to the smooth channel.The best results were obtained with dimple depths of 4-5 % of diameter showing a slight dependenceof Re which is in good agreement with literature. As the experimental investigation of the flow overdimpled surfaces is limited in spacial and temporal resolution we could demonstrate that numericalinvestigations give the possibility to overcome this drawback. However the solution of simulationsstrongly depends on numerous factors such as the discretization scheme, the numerical models andthe grid used to obtain results which might be a reason for slightly varying results of such simulationsfound in literature.