Evolutionary algorithms for optimal control in fed-batch fermentation processes

In this work, Evolutionary Algorithms (EAs) are used to achieve optimal feedforward control in a recombinant bacterial fed-batch fermentation process, that aims at producing a bio-pharmaceutical product. Three diferent aspects are the target of the optimization procedure: the feeding trajectory (the amount of substrate introduced in a bioreactor per time unit), the duration of the fermentation and the initial conditions of the process. A novel EA with variable size chromosomes and using real-valued representations is proposed that is capable of simultaneously optimizing the aforementioned aspects. Outstanding productivity levels were achieved and the results are validated by practice

Aspergillus as a multi-purpose cell factory: current status and perspectives

Aspergilli have a long history in biotechnology as expression platforms for the production of food ingredients, pharmaceuticals and enzymes. The achievements made during the last years, however, have the potential to revolutionize Aspergillus biotechnology and to assure Aspergillus a dominant place among microbial cell factories. This mini-review will highlight most recent breakthroughs in fundamental and applied Aspergillus research with a focus on new molecular tools, techniques and products. New trends and concepts related to Aspergillus genomics and systems biology will be discussed as well as the challenges that have to be met to integrate omics data with metabolic engineering attempts

Chronic Stress Induces Sex-Specific Alterations in Methylation and Expression of Corticotropin-Releasing Factor Gene in the Rat

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The action of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) of gene expression and Ca2+ signalling melanotrope cells of Xenopus laevis

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Abrasive and impact wear of stone used to manufacture axes in Neolithic Greece

Excavations at the Neolithic settlement at Makriyalos in Northern Greece brought to light a large number of stone axe heads, the majority of which were manufactured from serpentinite and igneous rocks. Detailed study of the manufacturing traces on the archaeological implements identified that both percussive (pecking) and abrasive techniques (sawing and grinding/polishing) were employed for the production of the axes. There is limited evidence, however, of how these processes may have been undertaken. The aim of this work was to build on previous research investigating sawing and polishing methods and the materials that may have been used in these tasks. Modern samples of two types of serpentinite and a dolerite were collected from the environs of the archaeological site. These were tested for strength and porosity. Through archaeological research the materials available to Neolithic people were established and some testing was carried out to establish sliding speeds and loads and percussive impact velocities achievable by a human to feed into the tribological test design. Pin-on-disc wear tests were carried out using quartz, chalcedony and sandstone as the pin material in wet and dry conditions to study sawing and polishing behaviour. Reciprocating tests were carried out using leather and combinations of lubricant (animal fat and water) and abrasive medium (sand) to study effects on polishing. Percussive impact tests were also carried out. The tests indicated that with certain combinations of materials and test conditions, both sawing and polishing could be achieved. A series of stages for the polishing were identified which are in line with observations made by archaeologists. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved

Calcium channel kinetics of melanotrope cells in Xenopus laevis depend on environmental stimulation

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Effects of maternal separation on dynamics of urocortin 1 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the rat non-preganglionic edinger-westphal nucleus

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Expression and characterization of the extracellular Ca(2+)-sensing receptor in melanotrope cells of Xenopus laevis.

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