Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Covariance Local Search for Memetic Frameworks: A Fitness Landscape Analysis Approach

The design of each agent composing a Memetic Algorithm (MA) is a delicate task which often requires prior knowledge of the problem to be effective. This paper proposes a method to analyse one feature of the fitness landscape, that is the epistasis, with the aim of designing efficient local search algorithms for Memetic Frameworks. The proposed Analysis of Epistasis performs a sampling of points within the basin of attraction and builds a data set containing those candidate solutions whose objective function value falls below a threshold.The covariance matrix associated with this data set is then calculated. The eigenvectors of this covariance matrix are then computed and used as the reference system for the local search: a change of variables is performed and then the local search is performed on the new variables. The Analysis of Epistasis has been implemented on the three local search algorithms composing a popular MA called Multiple Trajectory Search (MTS). Numerical results show that the three modified local search algorithms outperform their original counterparts.
Layers Sequence Optimizing for Deep Neural Networks using Multiples Objectives

Selecting the best architecture for a Deep Neural Network (DNN) is a non-trivial task since there is a massive amount of possible configurations (layers and parameters) and great difficulty in how to choose them. To make this task more independent of human interaction, this work addresses the DNN architecture selection problem as a multi-objective optimization task with different criteria in a combinatorial context. For this, we defined a new way to represent the architecture of DNN (layer sequence) as a solution in the optimization process. The proposed method attempts to find the best composition and sequence of layers for the DNN architecture satisfying two criteria: accuracy and $F_{1} {score}$. The method was evaluated for performance and compared to the exhaustive and random approaches and state-of-the-art DNN algorithms. The results obtained showed that the proposed method is capable of achieving results close to the optimum, and competitive when compared to those results reached by state of the art algorithms.
Deploy Mechanism for Virtual-Machine Based Vehicular Ad Hoc Network Simulation

The virtual-machine (VM) based vehicular ad hoc network (VANET) simulation executes VMs as vehicles, on which actual telecom servers and routing protocols are implemented. We would like to create massive VM based VANET simulation to verify that VANET is feasible for emergency communication facility. However, network congestion increased with the number of VMs as the ad hoc network routing protocols created multiple network sessions over a certain part of physical machines. Such network congestion limited scalability.We propose a VM deployment mechanism to reduce network sessions over the physical machines. Our mechanism executes geographically neighboring VMs on the same physical machine. The VMs moves to another physical machine when the simulated vehicles changed positions. Our approach reduced the network sessions by approximately one-sixth. This realize the extensive VM-based VANET simulation.
TRENDS IN WATER AND SALT REGULATION AMONG AQUATIC AND AMPHIBIOUS CRABS

1. In order of their increasing terrestrialness the following seven species of crabs were studied with respect to their osmotic regulatory ability in aqueous media: the aquatic Cancer antennarius, Hemigrapsus oregonensis, the semi-terrestrial Pachygrapsus crassipes, Grapsus grapsus, Ocypode ceratophthalma, Uca crenulata and the terrestrial crab, Gecarcinus lateralis. Cation regulation was studied in all of the above except Ocypode and Grapsus.2. All crabs examined except Cancer showed some degree of hypo- and hyperosmotic regulation. No correlation was found between the strength of hypoosmotic regulation and hyperosmotic regulation.3. There is some correlation between degree of terrestrialness and the ability to hyporegulate. That is, the more terrestrial crabs are stronger hyporegulators than the more aquatic crabs.4. The ratio, urine osmotic concentration/blood osmotic concentration (U/B), for Hemigrapsus, Pachygrapsus, Grapsus, Uca and Ocypode was essentially unity for all treatments. On the basis of c.
Physical Performance, Anthropometrics and Functional Characteristics Influence the Intensity of Nonspecific Chronic Low Back Pain in Military Police Officers

Background: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a serious problem in Military Police Officers (MPO), which accounts for up to 45% of the sick leave rates. It has been assumed that the strength and the endurance of trunk flexor and extensor muscles are CLPB key factors, but it is not known whether these attributes are related to pain intensity. It was aimed to determine whether the strength and endurance of trunk flexor and extensor muscles differ in MPO with no pain (CON; n = 24), moderate (MOD; n = 42), and severe (SEV; n = 37) nonspecific chronic low back pain (CLBP). Methods: The peak torque and endurance test of trunk flexor (PTF.BM−1) and extensor (PTE.BM−1) muscles were compared. A multiple regression analysis was used to identify pain intensity predictors in all groups (PAIN) and according to pain intensity (MOD and SEV). Results: The PTF.BM−1 was negatively related to pain and was a significant predictor, irrespective of pain intensity (PAIN). Conclusion: When pain intensity was considered the PTF.BM−1 and PTE.BM−1 explained the pain in the MOD, while the PTE.BM−1 and service time explained pain intensity in the SEV. Endurance of the flexor and extensor muscles was not related to pain intensity. These results indicated that training protocols must emphasize specific strengthening routines.
Naturalistic Driving Study in Brazil: An Analysis of Mobile Phone Use Behavior while Driving

Mobile phone use (MPU) while driving is an important road safety challenge worldwide. Naturalistic driving studies (NDS) emerged as one of the most sophisticated methodologies to investigate driver behavior; however, NDS have not been implemented in low- or middle-income countries. The aim of this research is to investigate MPU while driving and compare the results to those reported in international studies. An analysis of 61.32 h and 1350 km driven in Curitiba (Brazil) showed that MPU lasted for an average of 28.51 s (n = 627) and occurred in 58.71% of trips (n = 201) with an average frequency of 8.37 interactions per hour (n = 201). The proportion of the trip time using a mobile phone was 7.03% (n = 201), and the average instantaneous speed was 12.77 km/h (n = 627) while using the phone. Generally, drivers spent less time on more complex interactions and selected a lower speed when using the phone. MPU was observed more during short duration than longer trips. Drivers in this study engaged in a larger number of MPU compared to drivers from Netherlands and the United States; and the percentage of trip time with MPU was between North American and European values.
Monitoring coyote population dynamics with fecal DNA and spatial capture–recapture

Estimating coyote (Canis latrans) density and other demographic parameters is difficult, particularly for populations that exist at low density. This is the situation for recently established coyote populations in the eastern United States where populations may be below carrying capacity and growth unregulated. We used non-invasive fecal DNA collected from 5 scat sampling sessions over 2.5 years to estimate population parameters (i.e., density, apparent survival, recruitment, and population growth) for coyotes at 2 different sites in the Ridge and Valley region of the central Appalachians in Virginia, USA. We identified individuals using microsatellite genotypes and estimated apparent survival for the local population at both sites across the 5 sessions in a single Cormack–Jolly–Seber model. We estimated density for each site and session separately using single session spatial replicates of 0.5-km transect segments as traps in a spatial capture–recapture model. Finally, we derived estimates of recruitment and population growth using an ad hoc robust design approach. We were able to estimate population parameters, even though coyote densities at both sites were low. Generally, derived recruitment and apparent survival were inversely related across sites, however, precision in estimates was poor. Thus, although there appeared to be some differences in demographic estimates for local coyote populations, uncertainty in parameters was too great to detect changes in demographic rates over short periods of time using ad hoc robust design. However, the non-invasive genetic sampling and spatial capture–recapture approach provides a useful methodology and framework for future research intended to estimate population dynamics for coyotes. This method will also be useful for other species that occur at low densities, over large spatial scales, and lack distinguishing marks for camera-trap surveys. Finally, we believe this method will allow for detection of population trends over greater periods of time, and we consider alternate sampling strategies and modeling approaches that may improve the ability to estimate demographic rates of change for coyote populations using noninvasive genetics and spatial capture–recapture. © 2016 The Wildlife Society.
Lasso Peptide Microcin J25 Effectively Enhances Gut Barrier Function and Modulates Inflammatory Response in an Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli-Challenged Mouse Model

Bacterial resistance leads to severe public health and safety issues worldwide. Alternatives to antibiotics are currently needed. A promising lasso peptide, microcin J25 (MccJ25), is considered to be the best potential substitute for antibiotics to treat pathogen infection, including enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC). This study evaluated the efficacy of MccJ25 in the prevention of ETEC infection. Forty-five female BALB/c mice of clean grade (aged seven weeks, approximately 16.15 g) were randomly divided into three experimental groups as follows: (i) control group (uninfected); (ii) ETEC infection group; (iii) MccJ25 + ETEC group. Fifteen mice per group in five cages, three mice/cage. MccJ25 conferred effective protection against ETEC-induced body weight loss, decrease in rectal temperature and increase in diarrhea scores in mice. Moreover, in ETEC-challenged mice model, MccJ25 significantly improved intestinal morphology, decreased intestinal histopathological scores and attenuated intestinal inflammation by decreasing proinflammatory cytokines and intestinal permeability, including reducing serum diamine oxidase and D-lactate levels. MccJ25 enhanced epithelial barrier function by increasing occludin expression in the colon and claudin-1 expression in the jejunum, ultimately improving intestinal health of host. MccJ25 was further found to alleviate gut inflammatory responses by decreasing inflammatory cytokine production and expression via the activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor κB signaling pathways. Taken together, the results indicated that MccJ25 protects against ETEC-induced intestinal injury and intestinal inflammatory responses, suggesting the potential application of MccJ25 as an excellent antimicrobial or anti-inflammation agent against pathogen infections.
Salicylic acid regulates PIN2 auxin transporter hyperclustering and root gravitropic growth via Remorin‐dependent lipid nanodomain organisation in Arabidopsis thaliana

Summary To adapt to the diverse array of biotic and abiotic cues, plants have evolved sophisticated mechanisms to sense changes in environmental conditions and modulate their growth. Growth‐promoting hormones and defence signalling fine tune plant development antagonistically. During host–pathogen interactions, this defence–growth trade‐off is mediated by the counteractive effects of the defence hormone salicylic acid (SA) and the growth hormone auxin. Here we revealed an underlying mechanism of SA regulating auxin signalling by constraining the plasma membrane dynamics of PIN2 auxin efflux transporter in Arabidopsis thaliana roots. The lateral diffusion of PIN2 proteins is constrained by SA signalling, during which PIN2 proteins are condensed into hyperclusters depending on REM1.2‐mediated nanodomain compartmentalisation. Furthermore, membrane nanodomain compartmentalisation by SA or Remorin (REM) assembly significantly suppressed clathrin‐mediated endocytosis. Consequently, SA‐induced heterogeneous surface condensation disrupted asymmetric auxin distribution and the resultant gravitropic response. Our results demonstrated a defence–growth trade‐off mechanism by which SA signalling crosstalked with auxin transport by concentrating membrane‐resident PIN2 into heterogeneous compartments.
Conservation of the mallee fowl, Leipoa ocellata Gould (Megapodiidae)

The ecology of the mallee fowl, Leipoa ocellata Gould, is discussed with reference to its conservation. It is shown that the birds are still widespread in New South Wales, and in some places are reasonably common. In virgin mallee their density probably has not declined, although such areas are few. It is concluded that the fox is not the main cause of the decline of make fowl in uncleared areas. It is more probable that sheep, and perhaps rabbits, enter into direct competition with the birds for food.
Klotho Exerts an Emerging Role in Cytokinesis

The Klotho gene functions as an anti-aging gene. A previous klotho-knockout mice study indicated that neither male nor female gametocytes could accomplish the first meiotic division. It suggested that Klotho might regulate cell division. In this study, we determined the roles of Klotho in cytokinesis in cultural human cells (HEK293 and HeLa) and in zebrafish embryos. Immunoprecipitation, mass spectrometry analysis, and a zebrafish model were used in this study. The results showed that Klotho is located in the midbody, which correlated with cytokinesis related kinases, Aurora kinase B and citron kinases, in the late stage of cytokinesis. There was a spatial correlation between the abscission site and the location of Klotho in the cytokinesis bridge. A three-dimensional structural reconstruction study demonstrated there was a spatial correlation among Klotho, Aurora kinase B, and citron kinases in the midbody. In addition, Klotho depletion inactivated Aurora kinases; it was also indicated that Klotho depletion caused aberrant cell cycle and delayed cytokinesis in a cell model. The study with zebrafish embryos suggested that klotho knockdown caused early embryo development abnormality due to dysregulated cytokinesis. In conclusion, Klotho might have a critical role in cytokinesis regulation by interacting with the cytokinesis related kinases.
The association between purchasing locally produced food and diet quality among adults in Puerto Rico

Abstract Objective: Diminished diet quality in the Caribbean and other island settings may be related to a dietary transition from local foods towards imported products. The current study aimed to characterise the association between intentionally purchasing local foods (IPLF) and diet quality in Puerto Rico (PR). Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Primary care clinics in the PR metropolitan area. Participants: Data were obtained from adult participants (30–75 years; n 243) of the Puerto Rico Assessment of Diet, Lifestyle, and Diseases. IPLF was probed by asking: ‘How often do you purposely purchase foods from PR (like fruits, vegetables, meat and other products that are produced on the island rather than being imported)? ’ Dietary intake was measured using a FFQ, and diet quality was assessed by the Alternate Healthy Eating Index (range 0–110; higher scores indicating higher diet quality). Multivariate-adjusted generalised linear models tested the association between IPLF and Alternate Healthy Eating Index 2010 (AHEI) and its component scores. Results: A third (33·9 %) of participants reported seldom, 33·5 % reported often and 30·6 % reported always IPLF. Compared with seldom IPLF, fully adjusted mean AHEI scores were 3·6 (P = 0·038) points higher among those often IPLF and 9·3 (P < 0·0001) points higher among those always IPLF. Compared with seldom IPLF, those who always IPLF had significantly higher fully adjusted mean component scores for vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts and legumes, trans fat and n-3 fats. Conclusions: Adults in PR who intentionally purchase local foods had higher diet quality, especially for intake of plant-based foods and healthy fats, highlighting potential dietary benefits associated with improved local food availability in PR.
Modeling Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Efficacy in Syngeneic Mouse Tumors in an Ex Vivo Immuno-Oncology Dynamic Environment

The immune checkpoint blockade represents a revolution in cancer therapy, with the potential to increase survival for many patients for whom current treatments are not effective. However, response rates to current immune checkpoint inhibitors vary widely between patients and different types of cancer, and the mechanisms underlying these varied responses are poorly understood. Insights into the antitumor activities of checkpoint inhibitors are often obtained using syngeneic mouse models, which provide an in vivo preclinical basis for predicting efficacy in human clinical trials. Efforts to establish in vitro syngeneic mouse equivalents, which could increase throughput and permit real-time evaluation of lymphocyte infiltration and tumor killing, have been hampered by difficulties in recapitulating the tumor microenvironment in laboratory systems. Here, we describe a multiplex in vitro system that overcomes many of the deficiencies seen in current static histocultures, which we applied to the evaluation of checkpoint blockade in tumors derived from syngeneic mouse models. Our system enables both precision-controlled perfusion across biopsied tumor fragments and the introduction of checkpoint-inhibited tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in a single experiment. Through real-time high-resolution confocal imaging and analytics, we demonstrated excellent correlations between in vivo syngeneic mouse and in vitro tumor biopsy responses to checkpoint inhibitors, suggesting the use of this platform for higher throughput evaluation of checkpoint efficacy as a tool for drug development.
A Humanities-Based Explanation for the Effects of Emotional Eating and Perceived Stress on Food Choice Motives during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Perceived stress affects emotional eating and food choices. However, the extent to which stress associates with food choice motives is not completely understood. This study assessed whether emotional eating mediates the associations between perceived stress levels and food choice motives (i.e., health, mood, convenience, natural content, price, sensory appeal, familiarities, weight control, and ethical concerns) during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic. A total of 800 respondents were surveyed in the United States in June 2020. Their perceived stress, emotional eating, and food choice motives were assessed by the Perceived Stress Scale, Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire, and Food Choice Questionnaire, respectively. Moderate to high levels of perceived stress were experienced by the majority (73.6%) of respondents. Perceived stress was significantly correlated with emotional eating (r = 0.26) as well as five out of nine food choice motives: mood (r = 0.32), convenience (r = 0.28), natural content (r = −0.14), price (r = 0.27), and familiarity (r = 0.15). Emotional eating was significantly correlated with four out of nine food choice motives: mood (r = 0.27), convenience (r = 0.23), price (r = 0.16), and familiarity (r = 0.16). The mediation analyses showed that emotional eating mediates the associations between perceived stress and five food choices motives: mood, convenience, sensory appeal, price, and familiarity. Findings were interpreted using theories and concepts from the humanities, specifically, folklore studies, ritual studies, and symbolic anthropology.
NOTCH Receptors and DLK Proteins Enhance Brown Adipogenesis in Mesenchymal C3H10T1/2 Cells

The NOTCH family of receptors and ligands is involved in numerous cell differentiation processes, including adipogenesis. We recently showed that overexpression of each of the four NOTCH receptors in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes enhances adipogenesis and modulates the acquisition of the mature adipocyte phenotype. We also revealed that DLK proteins modulate the adipogenesis of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and mesenchymal C3H10T1/2 cells in an opposite way, despite their function as non-canonical inhibitory ligands of NOTCH receptors. In this work, we used multipotent C3H10T1/2 cells as an adipogenic model. We used standard adipogenic procedures and analyzed different parameters by using quantitative-polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), luciferase, Western blot, and metabolic assays. We revealed that C3H10T1/2 multipotent cells show higher levels of NOTCH receptors expression and activity and lower Dlk gene expression levels than 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. We found that the overexpression of NOTCH receptors enhanced C3H10T1/2 adipogenesis levels, and the overexpression of NOTCH receptors and DLK (DELTA-like homolog) proteins modulated the conversion of cells towards a brown-like adipocyte phenotype. These and our prior results with 3T3-L1 preadipocytes strengthen the idea that, depending on the cellular context, a precise and highly regulated level of global NOTCH signaling is necessary to allow adipogenesis and determine the mature adipocyte phenotype.
Schistosoma mansoni Vector Snails in Antigua and Montserrat, with Snail-Related Considerations Pertinent to a Declaration of Elimination of Human Schistosomiasis

Abstract. Investigations leading to a WHO-validated declaration of elimination of schistosomiasis transmission are contemplated for several countries, including Caribbean island nations. With assistance from the Pan American Health Organization, we undertook freshwater snail surveys in two such nations, Antigua and Barbuda, and Montserrat in September and October 2017. Historically, the transmission of Schistosoma mansoni supported by the Neotropical vector snail Biomphalaria glabrata occurred in both countries. Transmission on the islands is thought to have been interrupted by the treatment of infected people, improved sanitation, introduction of competitor snails, and on Montserrat with the eruption of the Soufrière volcano which decimated known B. glabrata habitats. Guided by the available literature and local expertise, we found Biomphalaria snails in seven of 15 and one of 14 localities on Antigua and Montserrat, respectively, most of which were identified anatomically and molecularly as Biomphalaria kuhniana. Two localities on Antigua harbored B. glabrata, but no schistosome infections in snails were found. For snail-related aspects of validation of elimination, there are needs to undertake basic local training in medical malacology, be guided by historical literature and recent human schistosomiasis surveys, improve and validate sampling protocols for aquatic habitats, enlist local expertise to efficiently find potential transmission sites, use both anatomical and molecular identifications of schistosomes or putative vector snail species found, if possible determine the susceptibility of recovered Biomphalaria spp. to S. mansoni, publish survey results, and provide museum vouchers of collected snails and parasites as part of the historical record.