Use Cases

About Applied Statistics, Econometrics, and Forecasting

Our work is concerned with the application of methods from the field of statistics, econometrics and machine learning. The focus of our research is on forecasting, financial econometrics, and time series analysis. We use state-of-the-art methods to answer our research questions. These methods include adaptive group lasso methods for efficient estimation of structural breaks in cointegrating regressions, mixed-frequency (sparse) dynamic factor models for GDP nowcasting, or spatio-temporal panel models for modeling crime counts on a regional level, to name a few. In addition to applied work, we also focus on developing new econometric methods through simulations and theoretical studies. We also have expertise in the prediction and analysis of cross-sectional, panel and experimental data. We use a mix of classical models such as e.g. linear regression analysis, ANOVA and logit models, or more advanced methods such as generalised linear mixed models and survival analysis, as well as machine learning models such as regularised regression (ridge, LASSO, elastic net) and random forests. Upon request, we are also happy to develop individual models tailored to the customer’s needs.

About Matrices

It is essential to characterize and quantify the composition of various samples. We can identify and measure specific compounds, elements and contaminants in different matrices. Our expertise lies in analyzing a wide range of matrices, such as:

  • Anorganic samples
  • Biological samples
  • Soil
  • Feed
  • Fertilizers
  • Food produces

Through our comprehensive understanding of analytical techniques we can offer services from competent and professional advice in the selection of a suitable parameter for the experiment, a suitable analysis method to further or new development of innovative analysis methods. Our goal is to support the research groups on campus with the latest technologies and flawless results in their work.

About Metabolomics

The Core Facility Hohenheim (CFH) provides mass spectrometry services for metabolome quantification as well as identification and quantification of metabolites and small organic molecules. Services are offered for research groups of the University of Hohenheim and external clients. We apply state-of-the-art LC systems coupled to Orbitrap and QTRAP mass spectrometers to perform non-targeted and targeted LC-ESI-MS/MS experiments for metabolite and small molecule analysis (see “Instrumentation (PDF)”). Metabolite identification, quantitative analyses and visualization can be performed using several software tools (“Software (PDF)”). The CFH metabolomics services cover, among others, the following areas:

  • Metabolite and small molecule identification using high resolution MS and MS/MS analysis
  • Metabolite profiling/Metabolomics using label-free (LFQ) quantification approaches
  • Identification and quantitative analysis of plant secondary metabolites (polyphenols, anthocyanins glucosinolates, avenanthramides)
  • Shotgun-Lipidomics and targeted quantification of lipids
  • Targeted quantification of phytohormons
  • Targeted quantification of central metabolic pathway metabolites using Biocrates p180, p500 and bile acid kits
  • Targeted quantification of acrylamide in bread, cereals and coffee
  • Targeted quantification of pesticides and fungicides in honey

If methods are not yet available, customized mass spectrometry methods may be established on demand. The CFH metabolomics services cover a complete workflow including consultation, sample preparation, mass spectrometry analysis, data processing and analysis as well as statistical and initial bioinformatics analysis. Visualization and interpretation of highly complex metabolomics data sets can be supported by the CFH Bioinformatics Unit. Consultation comprises individual requirements for your research projects such as experimental design, suitable sample preparation and mass spectrometry methods, questions concerning costs and time frame as well as individual communication of the obtained results. We highly recommend to discuss your research project with the CFH personnel beforehand (contact us), to ensure that best results can be achieved by the metabolomics analysis. In addition, the CFH supports research groups in grant applications by cost calculations and letters of support. Please arrange an individual appointment for a consultation.

About Nutrients

Find here a list of nutrients and other organic compounds we offer to analyse:

  • Vitamins
  • Carotenoids
  • Tryptophan
  • Mycotoxins
  • Amino acids
  • Monosaccharides
  • Disaccharides
  • Anions (e. g. chloride, sulfate)
  • Organic acids
  • Fatty acids
  • Crude fat
  • Nitrogen (Kjeldahl)
  • Crude protein (Kjeldahl)
  • Crude fiber
  • Fibre fractions van Soest (aNDF, ADF, ADL)

About Proteomics

The Core Facility Hohenheim (CFH) provides mass spectrometry services for proteome quantification as well as identification and quantification of proteins, peptides and post-translational protein modifications. Services are offered for research groups of the University of Hohenheim and external clients. We apply state-of-the-art nano-LC and LC systems coupled to Orbitrap and QTRAP mass spectrometers to perform LC-ESI-MS/MS experiments for protein analysis (see “Instrumentation (PDF)”). Data base searches for protein identifications, quantitative data analyses and visualization can be performed using several software tools (“Software (PDF)”). The CFH proteomics services cover (but are not restricted to) the following techniques:

  • Protein identification from in-gel digest or in-solution digest
  • Molecular mass determination of peptides and intact proteins
  • Identification of target protein interaction partners from co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) experiments using label-free quantification (LFQ)
  • Identification and site-localization of post-translational modifications
  • Identification of proteolytic neo-N termini using in-gel Methylation or PICS assay
  • Proteome quantification using metabolic labeling (SILAC), stable-isotope labeling (TMT, iTRAQ or Dimethyl-Labeling) or label-free (LFQ) approaches
  • Targeted identification and quantification of specific proteins in complex samples using PRM or SRM

If methods are not yet available, customized mass spectrometry methods may be established on demand. The CFH proteomics services cover a complete workflow including consultation, sample preparation, mass spectrometry analysis, data processing and analysis as well as statistical and initial bioinformatics analysis. Visualization and interpretation of highly complex proteomics data sets can be supported by the CFH Bioinformatics Unit. Consultation comprises individual requirements for your research projects such as experimental design, suitable sample preparation and mass spectrometry methods, questions concerning costs and time frame as well as individual communication of the obtained results. We highly recommend to discuss your research project with the CFH personnel beforehand (contact us), to ensure that best results can be achieved by the proteomics analysis. In addition, the CFH supports research groups in grant applications by cost calculations and letters of support. Please arrange an individual appointment for a consultation.

About Parameters and Analysis Fields

Find here a complete list of parameters and analysis fields we provide:

  • Aminoacids
  • Ammonium
  • aNDF, aNDFom, ADF, ADFom, ADL
  • Atomic Force Microscopy
  • Bioinformatics
  • Chemical Analytics
  • Crude Ash
  • Crude Fat
  • Crude Fiber
  • Crude Protein
  • Elemental Analysis (C, N)
  • Elements
  • Energy Dispersive Analysis - EDX
  • Fatty Acids
  • FLIM
  • Heavy Metals
  • Ion chromatography
  • Isotopes (C, H, N, O, S)
  • Life Cell Imaging
  • Lower carboxylic acids C2 - C6, SCFA
  • Macronutrients
  • Mass Spectrometry
  • Metabolite Determination
  • Metabolite Quantification
  • Metabolites
  • Micronutrients
  • Microscopy
  • Microwave Digestion
  • Nitrate
  • NMR Sprectroscopy
  • Nutrients, Nutrient Analysis
  • Protein Determination
  • Protein Quantification
  • Proteins
  • Raman Sprectroscopy
  • Sample Preparation
  • Scanning Electron Microscopy
  • Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy
  • Soil Analysis
  • Statistical Consulting
  • Sugar Analytics
  • Time Series Analysis
  • Tryptophan
  • Very Long Chain Fatty Acids (VLCFA)
  • Vitamin Analysis