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Since the introduction of differential evolution (DE) algorithms, they have achieved remarkable success in the field of evolutionary algorithms and engineering applications. In single-objective DE algorithms, most researchers tend to focus on improving mutation operators and parameter control, while overlooking the study of selection operators. However, the study of selection operators still holds great potential in enhancing the performance of DE algorithms. This study proposes a fitness-distance-based selection (FDS) strategy and a new scaling factor control method. FDS is divided into two stages. The first stage is to determine whether an individual needs to accept discarded trial vectors. The second stage involves selectively accepting these discarded trial vectors, which is based on the information related to the discarded trial vectors and the corresponding target vector. A new setting for the scaling factor parameter is proposed, designed to more effectively assist FDS in enhancing algorithm performance. Based on these strategies, an improved variant of the DE algorithm, called fitness-distance-based DE (FDDE) algorithm, is further proposed by this study. To verify the performance of FDDE, we conducted an in-depth study comparing it with six other advanced DE variants and four famous evolutionary algorithms using the CEC 2017, CEC 2022, and CEC 2011 benchmark sets. The experimental results demonstrate that the FDS strategy and the new scaling factor can significantly improve the performance of DE algorithms, and FDDE is significantly better than other advanced algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Path-coverage oriented testing is a crucial method in software testing, and the rapid generation of high-quality test data to satisfy path coverage requirements has been a persistent research challenge. To address issues such as long running times, unstable exploration processes, and the generation of redundant test cases in existing intelligent optimization methods, this paper proposed a selection strategy based on the reinforcement learning paradigm applied to test data generation with path coverage as the criterion. By defining executable paths as the state of the intelligent agent, it defined the data selection after each iteration update as the agent's action. It associated the reward function with state changes, and employed a greedy strategy during the state update process to guide input data towards continuous variations in unexplored states. This iterative selection process aimed to continuously choose data that covered new executable paths, thereby achieving the goal of covering all execution paths of the target program. Experimental results demonstrate that compared to other algorithms, the proposed strategy significantly reduces running times and iteration counts while achieving notable improvements in coverage. Theoretical analysis supports the conclusion that the proposed strategy effectively realizes path coverage and enhances the efficiency of test data generation in practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at the financing mode selection problem of a closed‑loop supply chain consisting of a retailer, a recycler, and a capital constrainted manufacturer, the revenue functions of the manufacturer, retailer, recycler, and closed ‐ loop supply chain are constructed when the capital constrained manufacturer can get financing from the retailer (internal financing) or the bank (external financing), respectively, and based on the Stackelberg game, the optimal pricing and return rate strategies under two financing modes are given. On this basis, by comparing the optimal decisions and revenue of the recycler, retailer, manufacturer, and closed ‐ loop supply chain under different financing modes, the financing mode selection strategies are given from different perspectives. The research results show that under certain conditions, the retailer providing financing services are beneficial for the manufacturer, retailer, recycler and closed ‐ loop supply chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple importance sampling (MIS) is an increasingly used methodology where several proposal densities are used to approximate integrals, generally involving target probability density functions. The use of several proposals allows for a large variety of sampling and weighting schemes. Then, the practitioner must choose a given scheme, i.e., sampling mechanism and weighting function. A variance analysis has been proposed in Elvira et al (2019, Statistical Science 34: 129-155), showing the superiority of the balanced heuristic estimator with respect to other competing schemes in some scenarios. However, some of their results are valid only for two proposals. In this paper, we extend and generalize these results, providing novel proofs that allow to determine the variance relations among MIS schemes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review highlights the potential benefits and drawbacks of using nanocarriers as drug delivery systems. Nanocarriers have been widely utilized to enhance drug efficiency, overcome drug resistance, and reduce adverse effects. However, the interaction between nanocarriers and biological systems can lead to toxic responses. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully select optimized nanocarriers to minimize toxicity and maximize efficiency. Every type of nanocarrier has its own advantages and disadvantages. Hybrid nanocarriers have been engineered to address the limitations of existing nanocarriers and are considered more suitable for developing new formulations. The article discusses various aspects of nanocarriers, including their applicability, potential toxicity, and strategies for utilizing appropriate nanocarriers in nanoformulations. To mitigate the toxicity of nanocarriers, several approaches can be employed, such as PEGylation, coating, charge coating, and injections of free PEG; moreover, by modifying the preparation method or utilizing hybrid nanocarriers, the efficiency of drug delivery systems can be improved. Overall, the article emphasizes the importance of selecting appropriate nanocarriers and employing strategies to reduce toxicity while enhancing drug delivery efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of the strategy for choosing disinfectants in practical medicine is considered. The pandemic of the new coronavirus infection posed new problems for disinfectology. The expanded spectrum of disinfectants and antiseptics offered by the chemical industry in recent years requires justification for the choice in favor of any product. The goals and types of disinfection considered from current positions and the main groups of disinfectants used in Russia and their properties and spectra of activity are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, to reduce the redundant attractions and incorrect directions of firefly algorithm (FA), a distance-guided selection approach (DSFA) is proposed, which consists of a distance-guided mechanism and selection strategy. Where the designed distance-guided mechanism reduces the attractions and plays as a classifier for global search and local search, the suggested selection strategy can avoid local search falling into traps, thereby increasing the probability of correct direction. With the good cooperation of these two approaches, DSFA obtains a good balance of exploration and exploitation. To confirm the performance of the proposed algorithm, excessive experiments are conducted on CEC2013 benchmark functions, large-scale optimization problems CEC2008, and software defect prediction (SDP). In the comparison with the 5 advanced FA variants, DSFA provides the optimal solutions to most CEC2013 problems. Besides, when facing the problems of class imbalance and the dimensional explosion of datasets, DSFA greatly improves the performance of machine learning classifiers employed by SDP. It can be concluded that DSFA is an effective method for global continuous optimization problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • High-throughput screening of 192 TM@TMD catalysts for CO 2 RR. • Derivation of expressions for selectivity and ΔG in key reaction steps using SISSO. • Analyzed expressions to unveil catalyst selection strategies. The study of transition metals and various possible surface compositions has sparked great interest in low-cost materials, which exhibit high activity and selectivity in catalysis. While various single-atom catalysts loaded on transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) substrates with excellent CO 2 reduction performance have been identified, the relationship between catalytic activity and the intrinsic properties of TMD single-atom catalysts remains unclear. Hence, a high-throughput first-principle computational approach is proposed to screen 24 transition metals anchored on 8 TMD monolayers to determine their catalytic activity in CO 2 RR. The results show that Fe@CoS 2 , Pt@TiTe 2 and Co@CoS 2 exhibit exceptional performances with low CO 2 RR limiting-potentials of −0.045 eV, 0.75 eV, and 0.54 eV, respectively, showcasing selective pathways towards formic acid (HCOOH), methane (CH 4), and methanol (CH 3 OH). Employing the Sure Independence Screening and Sparsifying Operator method(SISSO), key descriptors linking the performance of single-atom catalysts with their intrinsic features are identified, providing insights for the discovery of superior CO 2 RR catalysts. Moreover, it was observed that a feature of the anchored single atom, the difference between covalent radius and atomic radius (CR-R), is associated with multiple crucial reaction steps, exhibiting a strong linear relationship with the charge transfer of *COOH. This work not only identifies promising CO 2 RR catalysts but also establishes a predictive framework for screening catalysts based on their intrinsic properties, paving the way for future advancements in CO 2 reduction research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate various selection strategies for adoption in dual-purpose (ICD), meat (ICM) and layer (ICL) breeding goals in indigenous chicken breeding programs. The ICM goal aimed to improve live weight (LW 12), daily gain (ADG) and egg weight (EW 12) or together with feed efficiency and antibody response. For the ICL goal, age at first egg (AFE) and egg number (EN 12) or together with feed efficiency and antibody response were targeted. In the ICD goal, the objective was to improve LW 12 , ADG, AFE and EN 12 or together with feed efficiency and antibody response. Highest total index responses of US$ 49.83, US$ 65.71, and US$ 37.90 were estimated in indices targeting only production traits in the ICD, ICM and ICL goals, respectively. Highest index accuracy estimates of 0.77 and 0.70 were observed in indices that considered production and feed-related traits in the ICD and ICL goals, respectively, while in the ICM goal, the highest estimate of 0.96 was observed in an index targeting only production traits. Inbreeding levels ranged from 0.60 to 1.14% across the various indices considered in the breeding goals. Targeting only production traits in the ICD, ICM and ICL goals required the least number of generations of selection of 7.46, 5.50, and 8.52, respectively, to achieve predefined gains. Generally, a strategy targeting only production traits in a goal was the most optimal but resulted to unfavorable correlated responses in feed efficiency and antibody response. Addition of feed efficiency or/and antibody response in a goal was, however, not attractive due to the decline in total index response and accuracy and increase in inbreeding levels and number of generations of selection. Considering the feed availability and disease challenges in the tropics, choice of including feed efficiency or/and antibody response in the ICD, ICM and ICL goals should depend on targeted production system, resource availability to support breeding activities and magnitude of correlated responses on these traits when not included in the goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are a huge public health issue. Identifying text that mentions ADRs from a large volume of social media data is important. However, we need to address two challenges for high-performing ADR-related text detection: the data imbalance problem and the requirement of simultaneously using data-driven information and handcrafted information. Therefore, we propose an approach named multi-view active learning using domain-specific and data-driven document representations (MVAL4D), endeavoring to enhance the predictive capability and alleviate the requirement of labeled data. Specifically, a new view-generation mechanism is proposed to generate multiple views by simultaneously exploiting various document representations obtained using handcrafted feature engineering and by performing deep learning methods. Moreover, different from previous active learning studies in which all instances are chosen using the same selection criterion, MVAL4D adopts different criteria (i.e., confidence and informativeness) to select potentially positive instances and potentially negative instances for manual annotation. The experimental results verify the effectiveness of MVAL4D. The proposed approach can be generalized to many other text classification tasks. Moreover, it can offer a solid foundation for the ADR mention extraction task, and improve the feasibility of monitoring drug safety using social media data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study draws on life history theory to rationalize how tourism enterprises make decisions and evolve during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a case study approach, the current work improvises the house of trade-off paradox as a visual metaphoric framework that integrates three major dyadic trade-off pairs along with four organizational resource configuration aspects. This inquiry further synthesizes the wheel of selection strategy to pinpoint a mechanism in which tourism agencies mutate to adapt to a new normal based on acute environmental shocks. We further provide practical implications for operators with valuable insights germane to post-pandemic recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We aimed to establish the reliability of technique selection strategy for ureteroileal anastomosis (Bricker vs. Wallace) by comparing perioperative outcomes, complications, and anastomotic stricture rate in a contemporary series of patients who underwent open radical cystectomy followed by reconstruction of modified Hautmann neobladder. Materials and methods: A total of 60 patients underwent radical cystectomy and modified Hautmann neobladder, of whom 30 patients (group I) with Bricker anastomotic technique were compared to 30 matched paired patients with end-to-end ureteroileal anastomosis (group II). Long-term results, including ureteroileal stricture (UIS) and postoperative complication rate at two year follow up were available. The choice of anastomosis type was successively based on chimney size, ureteral length after retro-sigmoidal tunneling and diameter of distal ureter. Postoperative complications were graded according to the Clavien-Dindo system. Results: Ureteroileal stricture rate was 6.6% in group I vs. 0% in group II, after three months (p < 0.05), while anastomotic leakage rate was 6.6% vs. 3.3% (group I vs group II) between the two groups for the same follow up period (p > 0.05). High-grade complications (Clavien III-V) were more in Bricker group as compared to Wallace group and the difference was significant (20% vs 10.3%, p = 0.03). Conclusion: Our preliminary outcomes demonstrate that this selection strategy seems to be clinically reliable, with lower incidence of postoperative complications in Wallace group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study ten Hungarian oak provenances from Southern Romania were tested in two comparative trials 10 years after planting. The diameter at breast height (dbh) and tree height (Th) were measured in family progenies and the survival rate was determined. In both trials, the local provenances (Bals and Seaca 2) revealed superior fitness in terms of growth and adaptability traits, confirming the recommendation of using local provenances with priority in afforestation activities. Based on the measured traits, families which ranked in the first ten positions at age 3 and age 10 years were identified in both trials. The analysis of variance revealed statistically significant differences in growth traits between provenances and families in both comparative trials. Duncan's test for 5% transgression probability revealed different results for dbh and Th in terms of provenance homogeneity in the two test sites, with a superior homogeneity in the Aramadia trial for dbh and in the Bals trial for Th. Growth performances of the Hungarian oak provenances were significantly influenced by the experimental location and by the interactions between provenance, family and locality, suggesting that maximum precaution must be taken in the choice of forest reproductive materials to be planted in different environmental conditions. The family mean heritability (h2 f) was significantly lower than the individual heritability (h2 i), suggesting the possible adoption of an individual selection strategy in the next stage of the current breeding programme. The juvenile-adult correlations will be made at the age of 40 years and will take advantage of the results of this study to shorten the testing period for the selection of genetically improved material in Hungarian oak. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As various disease biomarkers, drugs/biomolecules carriers and physiological function regulator, exosomes play significant roles in various physiological and pathological process. Thus, the purification and detection of some exosome are of great significance, which make it necessary for the development of the recognition elements. Aptamers with high affinity and specificity exhibited well in the above areas. In this work, a new three-step evolutionary enhanced strategy based on capillary electrophoresis (CE)-SELEX was proposed for effective aptamer selection of exosome vesicles for the first time. Natural killer cells (NK) exosome was used as the model target. And the aptamer could be obtained in five round CE selection within three steps evolution including precise nucleic acid sequence convergence (with NK exosome specific proteins as targets in round 1st and 3rd), affinity evolution (with NK exosome as target in round 2nd and 4th) and specific evolution (negative selection in round 5th). Arising from the compatibility of CE-SELEX for exosome vesicles aptamer selection, and the proposed strategy, aptamer against NK exosome had been selected with good affinity (K D value of 27.6 nM) and excellent specificity. The as proposed CE-SELEX strategy paves a novel way for recognition element selection of exosome vesicles. [Display omitted] • Aptamer of exosome vesicles was selected through CE-SELEX strategy for the first time. • Through the three-step evolutionary enhanced strategy, effective aptamer selection of NK exosome was achieved. • The proposed method and strategy provide more effective aptamers for important exosomes distinguishing from complex body fluids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Casein phosphopeptides (CPPs) have been used worldwide as a nutritional supplement. However, the peptide components have been unknown; as a consequence, few quantification methods of CPP in infant formula were reported. This study introduced a quantification method based on peptide marker and corresponding peptide selection strategy using a simplified model with four commercial types of CPP. The peptides from four commercial CPPs were first identified. Due to the great variety of CPPs, two marker selection strategies were adopted: on one hand, universal marker peptide VLPVPQK can be used for the quantification of all four commercial CPPs, if the CPP can be obtained as a standard. On the other hand, the specific marker peptide LYQEPVLGPV can be used for identification and quantification of commercial CPP type K content in infant formula with a fixed calculation factor. In the simplified model, the combination use of the two markers can meet most of the requirements of CPP analysis in infant formula. The method validation revealed that this was suitable for the routine analysis laboratories without proteomics backgrounds. This selection strategy was suggested for the large-scale marker peptide selection with all commercial CPPs, which can give a comprehensive solution of CPP quantification in infant formula. Abbreviations: CPP: Casein phosphopeptides; LC: Liquid chromatography; TQMS: Triple quadrupole mass spectrometry; MRM: Multiple reaction monitoring; RSD: Relative standard deviation; L*: [13C6, 15N]-leucine; SSSEE: Peptides sequence of serine-serine-serine-glutamic acid-glutamic acid [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to construct an exact neural network model for the microstrip line filter，we propose a hybrid algorithm which combines the adaptive genetic algorithm and the improved particle swarm optimization (PSO). In the adaptive genetic algorithm, a quadratic form selection strategy is constructed to improve the replication probability of excellent individuals, which can accelerate the process of convergence to the initial global optimal solution. Taking the advantage of the good local search ability of the PSO, a Gaussian perturbation term is introduced into the position iteration of the standard PSO, which can overcome the shortcomings of slow convergence and premature convergence, and improve the possibility of searching for the global optimal solution. Simulations on the testing functions verify the feasibility of the proposed hybrid algorithm. Finally, the hybrid algorithm is used to optimize the parameters of the neural network, and a parallel coupled microstrip line filter model is established. The results show that the root mean square error of the filter parameters S21 and Su are reduced at least by 18. 22% and 12. 68% respectively, and the modeling accuracy of the microstrip filter is improved, which verifies the validity and reliability of the proposed algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Local Binary Pattern (LBP) is a commonly used method for texture classification that performs well in terms of feature discrimination. However, (1) LBP can misclassify some important edge-located textures as non-uniform patterns with only one bin in the feature histogram, thus losing their discrimination capability. (2) When center pixel is contaminated by noise, a uniform pattern may be transformed into a non-uniform pattern, which can seriously affect the obtained LBP, thus degrading the classification results. To overcome these drawbacks, an edge-located uniform pattern recovery mechanism using statistical feature-based optimal center pixel selection strategy (SFB-OCPS) is proposed in this paper. To extract the correct edge pixels, we divide the whole texture image into 16 = 4 × 4 sub-images and propose an edge pixel selection strategy (EPSS) based on adaptive quantization with local threshold on each sub-image. Then 3 candidate center pixels constructed by statistical features of the local sampling neighborhood are generated for each edge-located center pixel. After the steps above, the SFB-OCPS strategy is introduced into the LBP-based algorithms. It is possible to recover some important edge-located non-uniform patterns to uniform patterns with an optimal center pixel selection, thus improving feature discrimination capability of the LBP-based algorithms. It should be emphasized that any LBP variants can introduce the proposed SFB-OCPS strategy to achieve the recovery of the edge-located uniform patterns. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed SFB-OCPS strategy, we introduce the SFB-OCPS strategy into the original LBP and 5 representative LBP-based algorithms. Experiments are conducted on 6 representative texture databases. Classification comparison reveals that the introduction of SFB-OCPS strategy can significantly improve the texture classification performance of LBP-based algorithms. Additionally, the noise-robustness of the proposed SFB-OCPS strategy is also verified through a series of experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Network-on-Chip (NoC) is the regular and scalable design architecture for chip multiprocessor (CMP) systems. With the increasing number of cores and the scaling of network in deep submicron (DSM) technology, the NoC systems become subject to manufacturing defects and have low production yield. Due to the fault issues, the reduction in the number of available routing paths for packet delivery may cause severe traffic congestion and even to a system crash. Therefore, the fault-tolerant routing algorithm is desired to maintain the correctness of system functionality. To overcome fault problems, conventional fault-tolerant routing algorithms employ fault information and buffer occupancy information of the local regions. However, the information only provides a limited view of traffic in the network, which still results in heavy traffic congestion. To achieve fault-resilient packet delivery and traffic balancing, this work proposes a Path-Diversity-Aware Fault-Tolerant Routing (PDA-FTR) algorithm, which simultaneously considers path diversity information and buffer information. Compared with other fault-tolerant routing algorithms, the proposed work can improve average saturation throughput by 175 percent with only 8.9 percent average area overhead and 7.1 percent average power overhead. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Remote medical resources configuration and management involves complex combinatorial Multi-Objective Optimization problem, whose computational complexity is a typical NP problem. Based on the MOEA/D framework, this paper applies the two-way local search strategy and the new selection strategy based on domination amount and proposes the IMOEA/D framework, following which each individual produces two individuals in mutation. In this paper, by using a new selection strategy, the parent individual is compared with two mutated offspring individuals, and the more excellent one is selected for the next generation of evolution. The proposed algorithm IMOEA/D is compared with eMOEA, MOEA/D and NSGA-II, and experimental results show that for most test functions, IMOEA/D proposed is superior to the other three algorithms in terms of convergence rate and distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Pearl millet [ Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] open-pollinated varieties, which are the predominant cultivars, have never been systematically evaluated for adaptation to low-soil phosphorus (P), a major constraint on pearl millet production in West Africa (WA). Methods: We evaluated grain yield (GY), flowering time (FLO), harvest index (HI), and residual grain yields (RGY) of 102 open-pollinated varieties from WA under low-P (−P) and high-P (+P) field conditions in six environments of WA. In addition, PE-related traits of the varieties were evaluated at early growth stage in a pot experiment. Results: Significant genetic variation was observed for GY, FLO, HI and PE-related traits. P-efficient varieties had higher yield under −P conditions. Varietal performance under −P varied across environments depending on FLO, relative flowering delay under −P (FD) and RGY measured in the field. Low-P-susceptible varieties had higher FLO, lower HI than low-P-tolerant varieties. Response to direct selection under −P field conditions was 20.1 g m, whereas indirect selection response under +P was 16.3 g m. Conclusions: Selection under −P field conditions while taking into account seasonal variations for FLO, FD and PE is expected to be important for improving GY specifically targeting −P environments in WA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the past decades, advances in protein engineering have resulted in the development of various in vitro selection techniques (e.g. phage display) to facilitate discovery of new and improved proteins. The methods are based on linkage between genotype and phenotype and are often performed in successive rounds of selection. Since the resulting output depends on the selection pressures used and the applied strategy, parameters in each round must be carefully considered. In addition, studies have reported biases that can cause enrichment of unwanted clones and/or lowcorrelation between abundance in output and affinity. We have recently developed a selection method based on display of protein libraries on Staphylococcus carnosus and isolation of affinity proteins by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Here, we compared duplicate selections for affinity maturation using equilibrium binding at different target concentrations and kinetic off-rate selection. The results showed that kinetic selection is efficient for isolation of high-affinity binders and that equilibrium selection at subnanomolar concentrations should be avoided. Furthermore, the reproducibility of the selection was high and a clear correlation was observed between enrichment and affinity. This work reports on the reproducibility of bacterial display in combination with FACS and provides insights into selection design to help guide the development of new affinity proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary hypertension syndrome (ascites) is a metabolic disorder in fast-growing broilers. Inconsistency of oxygen requirement and the cardiovascular ability make the birds susceptible to ascites. Incidence of ascites was accompanied by right ventricular hypertrophy, fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity and finally mortality. The objective of the current study was to review the genetic basis of ascites syndrome and investigation of indicator traits of ascites syndrome to use in selection indices for reducing ascites susceptibility in broilers. Developing a breeding objective to increase body weight and to reduce ascites susceptibility in broilers is of ongoing interest, because the ascites syndrome is still a major challenge for poultry breeders. The blood gas parameters, which measured early in life, make it possible to design alternative selection schemes to reach birds resistance to ascites. In this way, ascites susceptibility can be effectively reduced but it might be comes at a cost, including a reduction in selection response for growth rate, due to genetic correlations. Based on the best combination of traits considered, reduction in gain for growth rate might be decreased, although with limited efficiency. Also, marker-assisted selection can be used effectively to reduce ascites susceptibility with respect to benefit-costs analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaerobic ammonium oxidizing (anammox) bacteria based technologies are widely applied for nitrogen removal from warm (25–40 °C) wastewater with high ammonium concentrations (∼1 gNH 4 –N L −1 ). Extension of the operational window of this energy and resource efficient process is restricted by the “supposed” low growth rate of the responsible microorganisms. Here we demonstrate that the maximum specific growth rate ( μ max ) of anammox bacteria can be increased to a μ max value of 0.33 d −1 by applying a novel selection strategy based on the maximization of the electron transfer capacity in a membrane bioreactor. This value is four times higher than the highest previously reported value. The microbial community was strongly dominated by anammox bacteria closely related (99%) to Candidatus Brocadia sp.40 throughout the experiment. The results described here demonstrate the remarkable capacity of a phylogenetically stable anammox community to adjust its growth rate in response to a change in the cultivation conditions imposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A major risk factor for ovarian cancer is germline mutations of BRCA1/2. It has been found that (80%) of cellular models with acquired platinum or taxane resistance display an inverse resistance relationship, that is collateral sensitivity to the other agent. We used a clinically relevant comparative selection strategy to develop novel chemoresistant cell lines which aim to investigate the mechanisms of resistance that arise from different exposures of carboplatin and taxol on cells having BRCA1 function (UPN251) or dysfunction (OVCAR8). Resistance to carboplatin and taxol developed quicker and more stably in UPN251 (BRCA1-wildtype) compared to OVCAR8 (BRCA1-methylated). Alternating carboplatin and taxol treatment delayed but did not prevent resistance development when compared to single-agent administration. Interestingly, the sequence of drug exposure influenced the resistance mechanism produced. UPN251-6CALT (carboplatin first) and UPN251-6TALT (taxol first) have different profiles of cross resistance. UPN251-6CALT displays significant resistance to CuSO4 (2.3-fold, p=0.004) while UPN251-6TALT shows significant sensitivity to oxaliplatin (0.6-fold, p=0.01). P-glycoprotein is the main mechanism of taxol resistance found in the UPN251 taxane-resistant sublines. UPN251 cells increase cellular glutathione levels (3.0-fold, p=0.02) in response to carboplatin treatment. However, increased glutathione is not maintained in the carboplatin-resistant sublines. UPN251-7C and UPN251-6CALT are low-level resistant to CuSO4 suggesting alterations in copper metabolism. However, none of the UPN251 sublines have alterations in the protein expression of ATP7A or CTR1. The protein expression of BRCA1 and MRP2 is unchanged in the UPN251 sublines. The UPN251 sublines remain sensitive to parp inhibitors veliparib and CEP8983 suggesting that these agents are candidates for the treatment of platinum/taxane resistant ovarian cancer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The expected move towards more sustainable crop-livestock systems implies wider cultivation of perennial forage legumes. Alfalfa (Medicago sativasubsp.sativa) is the main perennial legume in most temperate regions, especially where farm systems rely largely on forage conservation. White clover (Trifolium repens) and red clover (Trifolium pratense) are dominant in specific regions and farm systems. Although breeding progress for disease and insect resistance has been achieved, these crops have shown lower rates of genetic gain for yield than major grain crops, owing to lower breeding investment, longer selection cycles, impossibility to capitalize on harvest index, outbreeding mating systems associated with severe inbreeding depression, and high interaction of genotypes with cropping conditions and crop utilizations. Increasing yield, persistence, adaptation to stressful conditions (drought; salinity; grazing) and compatibility with companion grasses are major breeding targets. We expect genetic gain for yield and other complex traits to accelerate due to progress in genetic resource utilization, genomics resource development, integration of marker-assisted selection with breeding strategies, and trait engineering. The richness in adaptive genes of landraces and natural populations can be fully exploited through an ecological understanding of plant adaptive responses and improved breeding strategies. Useful genetic variation from secondary and tertiary gene pools ofMedicagoandTrifoliumis being increasingly accessed. Genome sequencing projects in alfalfa and white clover will enrich physical, linkage and trait maps. Genome sequences will underpin fine mapping of useful loci and subsequent allele mining, leveraging the synteny of these crops withM. truncatula. Low-cost genome-wide markers generated through genotyping-by-sequencing will make genomic selection for adaptation and forage yield possible for these crops. Genetic markers will also be used for dissecting quantitative traits and developing toolboxes of functional markers for stress tolerance and other traits. Under current regulatory policies, transgenic approaches are likely to be limited to a few breakthrough traits. The key challenge for future applications of genomics technologies is their seamless integration with breeding system logistics and breeding schemes. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Debris flows are among the most catastrophic natural phenomena, attracting the interest of researchers, engineers and government agencies. The complexity of the physical process has led to the development of numerous mathematical models to simulate and deeper understand the propagation of debris flows. Nevertheless, the intrinsic characteristics of models are not all suitable for every process observed in nature. Hence, this review identifies the main features of the different modelling approaches for debris flows and proposes recommendations for a more rigorous selection of models. The classification of the models is based on the following features: (1) phases of the flow; (2) entrainment of materials into the flow; (3) constitutive relationships; (4) spatial dimensionality; and (5) the solution methods. We discuss the advantages and limitations of the most remarkable contributions by comparing the available mathematical models for debris flows based on each feature. A selection strategy is proposed to be supported by the main assumptions of the models, the classification features and some dimensionless numbers evoked in debris flow research. As a result of this review, the principal considerations can be summarised as follows. First, the complexity of the models has been increasing with the enhanced understanding of debris flows and advances in technology. Thus, the multiphase approach, more sophisticated constitutive relationships, three-dimensional representations and numerical methods requiring higher computational cost are becoming noteworthy. Secondly, three-dimensional representations are better suited for the study of specific and small-scale debris-flow processes, while the two-dimensional depth-averaged approach is still the most appropriate for field applications. Finally, the most recognised and recent models are highlighted and concisely compiled in a table to provide an overview of the options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several papers addressed ellipse detection as a first step for several computer vision applications, but most of the proposed solutions are too slow to be applied in real time on large images or with limited hardware resources. This paper presents a novel algorithm for fast and effective ellipse detection and demonstrates its superior speed performance on large and challenging datasets. The proposed algorithm relies on an innovative selection strategy of arcs which are candidate to form ellipses and on the use of Hough transform to estimate parameters in a decomposed space. The final aim of this solution is to represent a building block for new generation of smart-phone applications which need fast and accurate ellipse detection also with limited computational resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Networks-on-Chip (NoC) provides a regular and scalable design architecture for chip multi-processor (CMP) systems. The Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) is a distributed algorithm. Applying ACO to selection models of adaptive routing can improve NoC performance. Currently, ACO-based selection only uses the historical traffic information. While additional temporal and spatial information provides better approximation of network status for global load-balancing. In this paper, we first consider the temporal enhancement of congestion information. We propose the Multi-Pheromone ACO-based (MP-ACO) selection scheme which adopts the concept of Exponential Moving Average (EMA) from stock market. We implement a novel ACO system where ants lay two kinds of pheromones with different evaporation rates. The temporal pheromone variation can help to capture hidden-state dependencies of upcoming congestion status. Secondly, to acquire the spatial range of congestion information, we propose Regional-Aware ACO-based (RA-ACO) selection to record historical buffer information from routers within two-hop of distances, which helps to extend spatial pheromone coverage. Information provided by the proposed two schemes improves the system performance. Simulation results show that MP-ACO and RA-ACO with Odd-Even routing algorithm yields an improvement in saturation throughput over OBL and NoP selection by 14.38 percent and 18.64 percent, respectively. The router architectures for the proposed schemes are also implemented and analyze with small hardware overhead. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Hydrophobic charge-induction ligand efficiency was investigated. • Ligand efficiency was divided into three levels: adsorption, preparation and cost. • A selection strategy based on ligand efficiency was formed. • The optimized ligand and density selected was different from the traditional methods. Ligand is an essential part of the cost of adsorbent preparation, which needs to be carefully selected and evaluated. In this paper, we introduced ligand efficiency (L e) with three levels (recovery, preparation and cost) to form a selection strategy for evaluation of the efficiency of hydrophobic charge-induction ligand. These functions were calculated from static/dynamic binding capacity, desorption efficiency, coupling efficiency and ligand cost. Nine kinds of ligand were used to demonstrate this strategy. The coupling efficiency was determined by preparing the adsorbents with different kinds and densities of ligand. These adsorbents were characterized by FT-IR, SEM. Then adsorption equilibrium, adsorption kinetics, and frontal adsorption experiments were used to test the adsorption and desorption performance of these adsorbents. Finally, L e s of recovery, preparation and cost were calculated. The results showed there were apparent differences in L e s between ligand types and densities under static and dynamic adsorption conditions. 4FF-Tryptophan with 52 μmol/g adsorbent had the best performance with the lowest static/dynamic L e of recovery, preparation and ligand cost. Compared with those methods evaluated by static saturated adsorption capacity or dynamic binding capacity at 10% breakthrough, the selection strategy based on ligand efficiency is more suitable for subsequent research and industrial amplification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Network‐on‐chip (NoC) performance largely depends on the underlying deadlock‐free and efficient routing algorithm. The effectiveness of any adaptive routing algorithm strongly depends on the underlying selection strategy. When the routing function returns a set of admissible output channels with cardinality greater than one, a selection function is used to select the output channel to which the packet will be forwarded. In this study a novel selection strategy, LATEX, is proposed that can be used with any adaptive routing algorithm for specified applications. The objective of the proposed selection strategy is to efficiently balance traffic load and reach better performance results. Performance evaluation is carried out by using a flit‐accurate simulator under two real traffic scenarios. Result experiments show that the proposed selection strategy applied to several routing algorithms significantly improves average delay, max delay and power consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Efficient reproductive performance is an important prerequisite for sustainable dairy production systems. Moreover, reproductive performance has become one of the most important functional traits in the dairy cattle industry, because of its economic importance, as well as its effect on animal welfare. The objective of present study was to evaluate the consequence of alternative selection strategies to improve fertility performance of Holstein cows in Iran. The traits milk production (M), number of inseminations per conception (INS), days from calving to first insemination (DFS), maternal calving difficulty (MCD) and direct calving difficulty (DCD) were included in an aggregate genotype (H). The selection indices in each strategy were a different combination of fertility traits and milk production. Although fertility traits were included in the aggregate genotype, in the first selection strategy, in which selection was based on milk production, unfavorable genetic gain for fertility traits occurred. In the second strategy, in which genetic gain for milk production was restricted to zero, in comparison to the other strategies, the genetic gains for profit and fertility traits were lowest and highest, respectively. In the third strategy, in which genetic gain for fertility traits was restricted to zero, the genetic gains for milk production and profit differed little compared to the first strategy. Favorable genetic gains were obtained for both fertility traits and milk production in the fourth strategy, in which proportional restriction was used. Although the genetic gain for milk production in this strategy was lower than in the first strategy, genetic gain for profit showed slightly differed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper proposes a novel semisupervised regression framework for estimating chlorophyll concentrations in subsurface waters from remotely sensed imagery. This framework integrates multiobjective optimization and Gaussian processes (GPs) for boosting the accuracy of the estimation process when conditioned by limited labeled-sample availability. To this end, the labeled samples are exploited in conjunction with unlabeled ones (available at zero cost from the image under analysis) for learning the regression model. The estimation of the target of these unlabeled samples is handled by the simultaneous optimization of two different criteria expressing the generalization capabilities of the GP estimator. The first is the empirical risk quantified in terms of the mean square error measure, and the second is the log marginal likelihood, which merges two terms expressing the model complexity and the data fit capability, respectively. In order to alleviate the computational burden and, possibly, to improve the estimation process accuracy, two different selection strategies of unlabeled samples are compared to the simple random-sampling procedure. They are based on the estimated variance provided by the GP estimator and the differential entropy measure, respectively. Experimental results obtained on simulated and real data sets are reported and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grid architecture integrates geographically distributed nodes to manage and provide resources to execute scientific applications. For data locality, applications with different computational phases require data redistribution for realignment. The tradeoff between high efficiency computation and communication cost of data redistribution accompanies. This paper introduces a research model and two methods to derive new lists of processor logical id according to the characteristics of heterogeneous network. Both methods provide choices of more low-cost communication schedules in grid. The simulations show both proposed methods yield outstanding performance in grid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic variation induced in grasspea cv. Dhenkanal local following mutagenesis varied with mutagens, generations and characters studied. Number of seeds, pods and seed yield/ plant were found to be docile for induced genetic variation. Treatments e.g., 40kR - γ -ray + 0.01% NG and 40kR γ -ray + 0.2% EMS + 0.01% NG induced appreciable genetic variation for seed yield with widest range, comparable mean value, high GCV, h²(bs) and GA compared to control in M2 and M2. Whereas, 0.02-0.03% NG with similar consideration had higher genetic variability in M3 than M2 indicating release of additional variability and further scope for selection of high yielding mutants. In contrast, 0.01% NG might be amenable for direct selection as it had the highest mean seed yield per plant along with low GCV, h²(bs) and GA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Stress-tolerant forage resources are increasingly needed for the environmental and economic sustainability of extensive Mediterranean livestock systems. Perennial forages such as cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata L.) can be a valuable alternative to annuals, if they can survive across successive summer droughts. One Mediterranean cultivar of cocksfoot subsp. hispanica with complete summer dormancy (Kasbah), five non-dormant (Delta 1, Jana, Medly, Ottava) or incompletely dormant (Currie) Mediterranean cultivars of subsp. glomerata, and one Continental cultivar (Porto) of subsp. glomerata, were evaluated for dry matter yield over three years and persistence as final plant survival in six sites of Algeria, France, Italy, Morocco and Portugal, with the objectives of: (i) modeling adaptive responses and targeting cultivars as a function of environmental factors associated with genotype×location (GL) interaction; (ii) defining plant ideotypes, adaptation strategies and opportunities of international co-operation for regional breeding programmes. Adaptive responses were modeled by joint regression, additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI), and factorial regression. The most predictive models were: (i) factorial regression as a function of site spring–summer drought stress (as long-term potential evapotranspiration minus actual water available), for yield; (ii) AMMI including one GL interaction principal component related to site annual and spring–summer drought stress, for persistence. GL interaction of crossover type for yield and persistence was large and mainly associated with the summer dormancy trait. Completely dormant germplasm was specifically adapted to severe drought. Non-dormant Mediterranean cultivars tended to be specifically adapted to moderate drought stress, although they varied to some extent in adaptive response to drought-stress levels. The Continental cultivar was generally misadapted. The completely summer-dormant germplasm also tended to have greater general persistence across locations. Early flowering tended to correlate with higher yield and persistence of the cultivars across locations. Considerations on experimental conditions along with previous physiological studies from three sites suggested that water use efficiency of the cultivars tended to parallel their site-specific yield response. On the whole, the results suggest different adaptation targets, plant types, genetic resources and cultivar recommendation for northern Africa and southern Europe. Summer-dormant material of subsp. hispanica has prevalent interest for northern Africa. Breeding widely adapted, non-dormant or incompletely dormant Mediterranean cultivars of subsp. glomerata has prevalent interest for southern Europe, especially when targeted to moderate crop duration (3–4 years). However, completely summer-dormant germplasm could gain adaptive potential for Mediterranean-climate European regions in the future, to mitigate the effects of the predicted increasing drought due to climate change. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Four methods of selection for net merit comprising 2 correlated traits were compared in this study: 1) EBV-only index (I1), which consists of the EBV of both traits (i.e., traditional 2-trait BLUP selection); 2) GEBV-only index (I2), which comprises the genomic EBV (GEBV) of both traits; 3) GEBV-assisted index (I3), which combines both the EBV and the GEBV of both traits; and 4) GBV-assisted index (I4), which combines both the EBV and the true genomic breeding value (GBV) of both traits. Comparisons of these indices were based on 3 evaluation criteria [selection accuracy, genetic response (ΔH), and relative efficiency] under 64 scenarios that arise from combining 2 levels of genetic correlation (rG), 2 ratios of genetic variances between traits, 2 ratios of the genomic variance to total genetic variances for trait 1, 4 accuracies of EBV, and 2 proportions of rG explained by the GBV. Both selection accuracy and genetic responses of the indices I1, I3, and I4 increased as the accuracy of EBV increased, but the efficiency of the indices I3 and I4 relative to I1 decreased as the accuracy of EBV increased. The relative efficiency of both I3 and I4 was generally greater when the accuracy of EBV was 0.6 than when it was 0.9, suggesting that the genomic markers are most useful to assist selection when the accuracy of EBV is low. The GBV-assisted index I4 was superior to the GEBV-assisted I3 in all 64 cases examined, indicating the importance of improving the accuracy of prediction of genomic breeding values. Other parameters being identical, increasing the genetic variance of a high heritability trait would increase the genetic response of the genomic indices (I2, I3, and I4). The genetic responses to I2, I3, and I4 was greater when the genetic correlation between traits was positive (rG = 0.5) than when it was negative (rG = -0.5). The results of this study indicate that the effectiveness of the GEBV-assisted index I3 is affected by heritability of and genetic correlation between traits, the ratio of genetic variances between traits, the genomic-genetic variance ratio of each index trait, the proportion of genetic correlation accounted for by the genomic markers, and the accuracy of predictions of both EBV and GBV. However, most of these affecting factors are genetic characteristics of a population that is beyond the control of the breeders. The key factor subject to manipulation is to maximize both the proportion of the genetic variance explained by GEBV and the accuracy of both GEBV and EBV. The developed procedures provide means to investigate the efficiency of various genomic indices for any given combination of the genetic factors studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tracking moving objects is one of the most common requirements in wireless sensor network applications. Most tracking schemes predict a target's location based on a single object movement model and periodically activate nearby sensors to monitor the target. However, in most real-world situations, a target exhibits multiple movement patterns. Thus, multiple movement models are required to accurately describe the target's movement. This paper proposes a tracking framework, called model-based object tracking system (MOTS), that allows a sensor network to adaptively apply the most suitable tracking mechanism to monitor the target under various circumstances. To fairly and accurately evaluate all tracking modules, this study further develops a monitoring-cost evaluator to evaluate the monitoring cost of the inactive tracking modules, and then designs three tracking module selection strategies, the Greedy Strategy, Min-Max Strategy, and Weighted Moving Average Strategy, to select the most effective tracking module to monitor the target in each period. A set of experiments is conducted to evaluate MOTS and compare it against existing tracking systems. The obtained results reveal that the cost efficiency of MOTS is considerably better than that of existing tracking systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genotypic differences among the genotypes in three seasons were statistically significant for plant height, number bolls plant-1, 1000-seed weight and seed yield hectare-1. These studies were conducted at National Agricultural Research Centre, Islamabad, Pakistan during rabi 2002-03, 2003-04 and 2004-05. Pooled genotypic and phenotypic variances were maximum for seed yield and minimum for 1000-seed weight. Genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation were observed maximum for seed yield and minimum for plant height. Broad sense heritability estimates were high for all the traits during three years ranging from 63% for plant height and 97% for seed yield. High heritability pooled estimates of 89% for 1000-seed weight and seed yield ha-1 coupled with corresponding high estimates of genetic advance in percent of mean (17.23 and 18.33) for these traits indicated the predominance of additive gene effects. Mass selection based on these additively controlled traits is suggested for improvement of yield. Plant height, number of bolls plant-1 and 1000-seed weight showed genetic advance of 7.96, 8.85 and 17.23 % respectively with the prospects of improving seed yield up to the level of 18.33 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The selection of reference compounds is crucial for a successful in vitro test development in order to proof the relevance of the test system. This publication describes the criteria and the selection strategy leading to a list of more than 130 chemicals suitable for test development within the ReProTect project. The presented chemical inventory aimed to support the development and optimization of in vitro tests that seek to fulfill ECVAM''s criteria for entering into the prevalidation. In order to select appropriate substances, a primary database was established compiling information from existing databases. In a second step, predefined selection criteria have been applied to obtain a comprehensive list ready to undergo a peer review process from independent experts with industrial, academic and regulatory background. Finally, a peer reviewed chemical list containing 13 substances challenging endocrine disrupter tests, additional 50 substances serving as reference chemicals for various tests evaluating effects on male and female fertility, and finally 61 substances were identified as known to provoke effects on the early development of mammalian offspring. The final list aims to cover relevant and specific mode/site of actions as they are known to be relevant for various substance classes. However, the recommended list should not be interpreted as a list of reproductive toxicants, because such a description requires proven associations with adverse effects of mammalian reproduction, which are subject of regulatory decisions done by involved competent authorities. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Two primary selection criteria were used to collect a pool of nearly 500 candidate probiotic bacteria from Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua L.) larvae, i.e. the dominant intestinal bacterial flora and isolates with antagonistic activity against Vibrio anguillarum. Bacteria were isolated from cod larvae from five rearing groups with variable rearing technologies. The bacteria were brought to pure culture and characterized phenotypically. Based on properties such as uniqueness, dominance and fermentative ability, a selection of ∼10% of the isolates were chosen from the initial pool of bacteria to reduce the number of candidates. These 55 isolates were characterized further in vitro regarding antagonism, adhesion to mucus, growth in mucus, production of extracellular enzymes, fish bile resistance and haemolytic properties. Based on the results of the in vitro tests, the number of probiotic candidates was further reduced to seven isolates. To evaluate the probiotic potential and to assure that the seven isolates were not harmful to the host, yolk sac larvae of cod were exposed to the isolates in a small-scale in vivo experiment. The in vivo experiment excluded two of the candidate bacteria due to increased mortality of cod larvae, whereas three isolates from the dominant (Vibrio and two different strains of Microbacterium) and two from the antagonistic (Ruegeria and Pseudoalteromonas) group improved the survival of larvae compared to the positive control. Thus, a combination of the two screening methods was suited for making multistrain probiotics with complementary modes of action. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Directed evolution is a powerful approach for isolating high-affinity binders from complex libraries. In affinity maturation experiments, binders with the highest affinities in the library are typically isolated through selections for decreased off rate using a suitable selection platform (e.g. phage display or ribosome display). In such experiments, the library is initially exposed to biotinylated antigen and the binding reaction is allowed to proceed. A large excess of unbiotinylated antigen is then added as a competitor to capture the vast majority of rapidly dissociating molecules; the slowly dissociating library members can subsequently be rescued by capturing the biotin-carrying complexes. To optimize the parameters for such affinity maturation experiments, we performed both deterministic and stochastic simulations of off-rate selection experiments using different input libraries. Our results suggest that the most critical parameters for achieving the lowest off rates after selection are the ratio of competitor antigen to selectable antigen and the selection time. Furthermore, the selection time has an optimum that depends on the experimental setup and the nature of the library. Notably, if selections are carried out for times much longer than the optimum, equilibrium is reached and the selection pressure is weakened or lost. Comparison of different selection strategies revealed that sequential selection rounds with lower stringency are favored over high-stringency selection experiments due to enhanced diversity in the selected pools. Such simulations may be helpful in optimizing affinity maturation strategies and off-rate selection experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phage display, the presentation of (poly)peptides as fusions to capsid proteins on the surface of bacterial viruses, celebrates its 25th birthday in 2010. The technique, coupled with in vitro selection, enables rapid identification and optimization of proteins based on their structural or functional properties. In the last two decades, it has advanced tremendously and has become widely accepted by the scientific community. This by no means exhaustive review aims to inform the reader of the key modifications in phage display. Novel display formats, innovative library designs and screening strategies are discussed. I will also briefly review some recent uses of the technology to illustrate its incredible versatility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effectiveness of five selection methods for genetic improvement of net merit comprising trait 1 of low heritability ( h2 = 0.1) and trait 2 of high heritability ( h2 = 0.4) was examined: (i) two-trait quantitative trait loci (QTL)-assisted selection; (ii) partial QTL-assisted selection based on trait 1; (iii) partial QTL-assisted selection based on trait 2; (iv) QTL-only selection; and (v) conventional selection index without QTL information. These selection methods were compared under 72 scenarios with different combinations of the relative economic weights, the genetic correlations between traits, the ratio of QTL variance to total genetic variance of the trait, and the ratio of genetic variances between traits. The results suggest that the detection of QTL for multiple-trait QTL-assisted selection is more important when the index traits are negatively correlated than when they are positively correlated. In contrast to literature reports that single-trait marker-assisted selection (MAS) is the most efficient for low heritability traits, this study found that the identified QTL of the low heritability trait contributed negligibly to total response in net merit. This is because multiple-trait QTL-assisted selection is designed to maximize total net merit rather than the genetic response of the individual index trait as in the case of single-trait MAS. Therefore, it is not economical to identify the QTL of the low heritability traits for the improvement of total net merit. The efficient, cost-effective selection strategy is to identify the QTL of the moderate or high heritability traits of the QTL-assisted selection index to facilitate total economic returns. Detection of the QTL of the low h2 traits for the QTL-assisted index selection is justified when the low h2 traits have high negative genetic correlation with the other index traits and/or when both economic weights and genetic variances of the low h2 traits are larger as compared to the other index traits of higher h2. This study deals with theoretical efficiency of QTL-assisted selection, but the same principle applies to SNP-based genomic selection when the proportion of the genetic variance ‘explained by the identified QTLs’ in this study is replaced by ‘explained by SNPs’. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) has played an important role in the management of asthma. Although several kinds of ICSs are currently available, there is no established strategy for ICS selection. Methods: Using the data from the 2004 questionnaire surveys by the Niigata Asthma Treatment Study Group, we analyzed relationships between each patient and the ICS employed on the basis of patient background, asthma control and treatment, and indicated characteristics of ICS selection by the physician. Results: Of 2852 cases, 2279 (79.9%) were ICS users, and 1513 (66.4% of ICS users) were classified as being in the fluticasone propionate (FP) group, 438 (19.2%) in the budesonide (BUD) group, and 240 (10.5%) in the hydrofluoroalkane-beclometasone (HFA-BDP) group, indicating that FP was a standard ICS in this study. The mean age was significantly lower in the BUD group (52.3+ -18.2 years) and was significantly higher in the HFA-BDP group (59.9+ -17.0 years) than that in the FP group (55.8+ -16.6 years). The proportion of female patients was significantly higher not in the HFA-BDP (46.5%) but in the BUD group (59.0%) than in the FP group (51.1%). These results indicated that BUD was frequently prescribed to young female and HFA-BDP was employed in the elderly patients irrespective of gender compared with FP. Conclusions: Our study indicates that ICS selection is reasonably adapted to each patient's background at least in the surveyed area. We need to elucidate the characteristics of ICS selection further in the future as new ICS and devices are developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breeding for specific or wide adaptation would be more cost-efficient if preliminary indications on genotype adaptive responses could be provided by easily-detectable morphophysiological or molecular characteristics. We investigated the consistency among adaptation parameters, morphophysiological traits and SSR markers in estimating and structuring the genetic diversity among 24 durum wheat genotypes. Additive main effects and multiplicative interaction adaptation parameters were estimated across 14 Algerian locations belonging to a low- or a high-elevation subregion. Eight morphophysiological traits were assessed in two locations per subregion. Genotype Euclidean distances based on adaptation parameters were closely related to those based on morphophysiological traits ( r = 0.75, P = 0.01). Marker-based distances exhibited low correlation with those based on adaptation parameters ( r = 0.26, P = 0.01) or morphophysiological traits ( r = 0.32). The consistency between adaptation parameters and morphophysiological traits for genotype ordination and classification was greater than that between either information layer and SSR markers. Optima of phenology and plant height differed between subregions, whereas many kernels per spike and fertile tillers were associated with adaptation to both subregions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]