Population Fitness Research Articles

Lecture Scheduling Using Genetic Algorithm Method

Lecture scheduling at a university is a very important element, because it determines the progress of the lecture activity process. At the Indonesian Digital Technology University, the lecture scheduling process still uses Microsoft Excel, this is considered less than optimal because it takes a relatively long time, the process is long and requires a high level of accuracy, which is something that often becomes an obstacle in the scheduling process. The genetic algorithm is an algorithm that can be used to solve problems on a large scale and with a high level of complexity, such as lecture scheduling. Genetic algorithms have advantages over other optimization methods, namely that genetic algorithms can optimize problems with complex problems and a very wide search space. There are several stages in a genetic algorithm, namely: initial population initialization, fitness evaluation, selection, crossover and mutation. The results of this research show that scheduling lectures using the genetic algorithm method results in faster and more accurate results, because the process is carried out by the program by finding the best solution from each generation iteration and the process will stop when the required solution is obtained. Meanwhile, scheduling lectures using MS Excel takes longer because it is done manually with the help of the VLOOKUP formula and requires a high level of accuracy so that there are no conflicting lecture schedules. From the test results, using Python software with a genetic algorithm takes 0.609356 seconds with an accuracy level of 100%. Meanwhile, testing using MS Excel with VLOOKUP takes around 20 minutes with an accuracy rate of 95%.Keywords— Scheduling, Lectures, Genetic Algorithm

Effectiveness of Interval Training in Increasing Cardiorespiratory Endurance: A Systematic Review

Background. The rise in cardiovascular diseases has necessitated implementing effective interventions to improve cardiorespiratory endurance. Objectives. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of interval training (IT), particulary high-intensity interval training (HIIT), in enhancing cardiorespiratory endurance across various demographics. IT, characterized by high-intensity exercise followed by recovery periods, has gained attention for its potential to improve key cardiovascular markers such as VO₂max and cardiovascular efficiency. Materials and methods. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using multiple databases, adhering to the PRISMA guidelines. From 893 initially screened articles, eight studies met the inclusion criteria. These studies examined the effects of IT, especially HIIT, on cardiorespiratory endurance across various population groups, including sedentary individuals, athletes, and older adults. Metrics such as VO₂max and cardiovascular efficiency were the primary outcomes measured. Results. The findings indicate that IT, especially HIIT, consistently improves VO₂max and overall cardiovascular fitness in diverse populations. HIIT has been observed to outperform moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) in generating faster cardiovascular adaptations. Despite its benefits, the high intensity of IT requires careful individualization to mitigate the risk of injury, particularly in populations with lower baseline fitness levels. Conclusions. This review concludes that IT is an effective and time-efficient method for improving cardiorespiratory endurance. It should be considered a viable option in both clinical and athletic populations. However, further research is recommended to investigate the long-term safety of HIIT in high-risk populations and to enhance adherence to these exercise protocols.

Adaptive evolutionary neural architecture search based on one-dimensional convolutional neural network for electric rudder fault diagnosis

Abstract The electric rudder is the core actuator of the flight control system. Fault diagnosis of rudders is essential for the production and repair of rudders. While existing methods for rudder fault diagnosis are effective, the manual design of neural network models is a time-consuming and challenging process. Therefore, this paper proposes a fault diagnosis framework for the electric rudder based on an adaptive evolutionary neural architecture search (AENAS-FD). AENAS-FD employs an adaptive strategy to guide the evolution of a one-dimensional convolutional neural network towards achieving optimal diagnostic accuracy. This adaptive strategy adjusts the relevant parameters of the genetic operator based on the relationship between individual and population fitness. This leads to improved algorithm search performance and mitigates premature convergence. The experiments on the real electric rudder dataset demonstrate that AENAS-FD can generate superior network architectures for diagnosing rudder faults, exhibiting better diagnostic accuracy when compared to manually designed networks.

A global dynamic evolution snow ablation optimizer for unmanned aerial vehicle path planning under space obstacle threat

In this paper, an improved Global Dynamic Evolution Snow Ablation Optimizer (GDSAO) is proposed in order to solve the problem of global optimization and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) path planning in 3D space with obstacle threats. Three improvement schemes are proposed in GDSAO: (1) Population initialization is carried out using the theory of the best point set to obtain a more diverse initial population; (2) A dynamic snowmelt ratio using the global evolutionary dispersion is proposed to adapt the exploitation process of the original SAO to the evolutionary process of population fitness; (3) A neighborhood dimensional search scheme is proposed to update the locations of all searched individuals outside the elite pool to obtain better population fitness. The algorithm was tested on 30 10-dimensional problems at CEC 2017 and performed better than a series of joint and leading optimization algorithms. The path planning problem of UAV was solved, and the path satisfying all obstacle avoidance threats and corner constraints was obtained. By comparison, GDSAO is superior to the existing algorithms in terms of reliability and stability of optimization.

Multiple strategies improved spider wasp optimization for engineering optimization problem solving

The Spider Wasp Optimization (SWO) algorithm is a swarm intelligence optimization technique inspired by the collective behaviors of social animals. This algorithm, designed to address optimization challenges, emulates the unique hunting, nesting, and mating behaviors of female spider wasps. It offers several advantages, including rapid search speed and high solution accuracy. However, when tackling complex optimization problems, it can encounter issues such as getting trapped in local optima, slow early convergence, and the need for manual adjustment of the “Trade-off Rate” (TR) parameter for different problems.To improve the performance and versatility of the SWO algorithm, a Multi-strategy Improved Spider Wasp Optimizer (MISWO) is proposed. Firstly, the Grey Wolf Algorithm is integrated into the initialization phase to enhance early convergence and improve the fitness of the initial population, thereby boosting the algorithm’s global optimization capabilities.Secondly, an adaptive step size operator and Gaussian mutation are introduced during the search phase to automatically adjust the search range at different optimization stages. This enhancement increases both the optimization accuracy and the algorithm’s ability to avoid local optima. The Trade-off Rate (TR) is dynamically selected to better accommodate a variety of problems. Finally, a dynamic lens imaging reverse learning strategy is employed to update optimal individuals, further improving the algorithm’s capacity to escape local optima. To validate the effectiveness of MISWO, it was tested on 23 benchmark functions and 7 engineering optimization problems, and compared with several state-of-the-art algorithms. Experimental results show that MISWO outperforms other algorithms in terms of optimization capability, stability, and adaptability across diverse problems.

Distribution and evidence of co-infection of the two microsporidian parasites Astathelohania contejeani and Nosema austropotamobii in Austropotamobius pallipes complex in Northern and Central Italy.

Austropotamobius pallipes complex is an endangered freshwater crayfish species in Europe and the assessment of the health status of its wild populations is essential for conservation purposes. The two microsporidia Astathelohania contejeani and Nosema austropotamobii have been reported to cause in A. pallipes complex a chronic parasitic infection, known as ‘porcelain disease’, which reduces population fitness and leads the host to death. Due to the similar macroscopic signs produced, molecular biology analyses are required to unambiguously distinguish between these microsporidia. Focusing on A. pallipes complex populations located in Northern and Central Italy, the present study provides an evaluation of prevalence and distribution of A. contejeani and N. austropotamobii, and investigates the variables affecting the probability of detecting infected specimens during a survey (e.g. sex, crayfish density, longitude). Microsporidia were identified in 12 populations among the 42 monitored from 2011 to 2017, with an average prevalence of 3.12% for A. contejeani and 3.60% for N. austropotamobii, the latter being reported in a wider area than previously documented (from Lombardy to Liguria Regions). Notably, crayfish co-infected by both microsporidia were also detected in 4 populations. Moreover, it was observed that the probability of detecting a crayfish with a microsporidian infection significantly increased eastwards in the studied area, especially for N. austropotamobii. Our distribution map for microsporidiosis, combined with molecular screening, will be useful for planning breeding and translocation efforts for A. pallipes complex populations.

Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy as a Tool to Characterize Exercise and Physical Activity: A Systematic Review.

Over the past few decades, the scientific community has recognized the impact of physical activity on health and performance. In parallel, researchers have been actively exploring novel methodologies to analyze the physiological and metabolic responses to exercise. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy has emerged as a powerful tool in this effort, offering the potential to provide unique insights into exercise-related changes at the molecular level. The primary goal of this systematic review is to confirm the viability of utilizing Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy for the analysis of the biochemical changes associated with physical exercise and its potential applications. This systematic review adhered to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines and examined studies employing Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to analyze exercise and physical activity, focusing on a biological sample collection and spectral analysis. Four databases (PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, and Scopus) were searched, and inclusion criteria encompassed original English-language studies involving human participants aged 18-50years, a biological sample collection (urine, saliva, and blood), and the use of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The studies were analyzed considering the type of exercise or sport that was investigated, and also the type of spectral analysis conducted. The review encompassed 15 studies that demonstrated the versatility of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy in assessing various aspects of exercise, including metabolism, cardiovascular responses, and muscular fatigue. The largest study evaluated 57 athletes from several different sports. On average, almost all the studies were performed with around 20 athletes. Notably, the technique's holistic approach allows for a comprehensive analysis of the complex network of metabolites and proteins within the human body. Data analysis methodologies, particularly when coupled with machine learning, show great potential for advancing the field of sports science. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy emerges as a promising tool for monitoring and enhancing the performance of high-level athletes, preventing overtraining or even over-reaching, and assessing metabolism. Its accuracy, efficiency, and affordability also make it a candidate for broader applications in assessing the health and fitness of the general population. Future research should explore its applicability across diverse exercise modalities and demographic groups, aiming to prescribe exercise plans that consider a multitude of parameters for larger, more intricate exercise cohorts. The study protocol was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) under the ID number CRD42023441965.

DNAR-14. MODULATING POPULATIONAL VARIANCE OF METHYL-GUANINE METHYL TRANSFERASE (MGMT) EXPRESSION THROUGH MICRORNA DEGRADATION: A NOVEL MECHANISM OF TEMOZOLOMIDE RESISTANCE

Abstract O6 methyl-guanine methyltransferase (MGMT) restores alkylated DNA to its undamaged form in a stochiometric manner to prevent the cytotoxic effects of temozolomide (TMZ), a DNA alkylating agent used as a standard-of-care treatment for glioblastomas. We previously demonstrated that he microRNA, miR-181d, post-transcriptionally repressed MGMT expression. Here, we show that treatment of glioblastoma cells with TMZ induced a feed-forward cascade resulting in an ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3 (ATR) and polyribonucleotide nucleotidyl transferase 1 (PNPT1)-dependent degradation of miR-181d. Single-cell analyses revealed such miR-181d degradation induced an: 1) increased mean level of MGMT expression and 2) widened the variance in MGMT expression in the cell population. While the former is known to confer increased population fitness to temozolomide, the importance of the latter is unknown. By mixing cultures derived from isogenic glioblastoma subclones with distinct MGMT expression levels, we generated glioblastoma cell populations with comparable mean MGMT expression levels while differing in the populational variance in MGMT expression (classified as “wide” or “narrow”). Despite comparable mean levels of MGMT expression, the glioblastoma population with wide variance exhibited increased temozolomide resistance relative to the population with the narrow variance, in vitro and in vivo. Transfection of miR-181d into the wide-variance population narrows the variance of MGMT expression and restores TMZ sensitivity to levels comparable to that observed in miR-181d transfected narrow-variance populations. These findings suggest that TMZ-induced miR-181d degradation enhanced TMZ resistance through modulation of both the mean and variance of MGMT expression, mechanisms which may be extrapolated to microRNA biology in general.

Phenotypic homogenization and potential fitness constraints following non-native introgression in an endemic sportfish.

Introgressive hybridization may lead to contrasting evolutionary outcomes that are difficult to predict, since they depend on the fitness effects of endogenous genomic interactions and environmental factors. Conservation of endemic biodiversity may be more effective with require direct measurement of introgressed ancestry and fitness in wild populations, especially for keystone taxa at risk of hybridization following species introductions. We assessed the relationship of non-native ancestry with growth and body condition in the basin-restricted Neosho Bass (Micropterus velox; NB), focusing on two streams in the NB native range that are admixed extensively with non-native Smallmouth Bass (M. dolomieu; SMB). We quantified genetic composition of 116 fish from Big Sugar Creek (N=46) and Elk River (N=70) at 14 microsatellite loci. Using back-calculated total length-at-age estimated from sagittal otoliths, we assessed whether genetic ancestry explained variation in von Bertalanffy growth model parameters, accounting for sex and stream effects. We then assessed the relationship of ancestry and body condition. We found no differences in growth parameters by sex, stream, or ancestry, suggesting phenotypic homogenization which could be mediated by selection on body size. We found a negative correlation between SMB ancestry and condition, including lower condition in Big Sugar Creek, possibly reflecting a trade-off between maximum length and condition with respect to overall fitness. We show that ongoing non-native introgression, which may be augmented by anthropogenic SMB introductions, may attenuate evolutionary differentiation between species and directly influence fitness, possibly having critical implications for long-term persistence and management of adaptive potential in a popular and ecologically important endemic sportfish.

Fisheries-induced life-history changes recover in experimentally harvested fish populations.

Overfishing is one of the greatest threats to fish populations. Size-selective harvesting favours faster juvenile growth, younger maturation, small adult body size and low reproductive output. Such changes might be slow to recover and ultimately threaten population fitness and survival. To study the recovery potential of exploited experimental populations, we compared life-history traits in three differently size-selected experimental lines (large-selected, small-selected and random-selected) after five generations of harvesting and 10 subsequent generations of recovery (i.e. cessation of harvesting). We show that after a recovery period twice as long as the harvesting period, the differences in adult body size among the selection lines have eroded. While there was still a significant body size difference among the selection lines, this did not translate to differences in reproductive success. Although size-selective harvesting causes phenotypic changes in exploited fish populations, we show that such changes are reversible if the recovery period is long enough.

Research on solving multi-preference intelligent scheduling problem based on improved genetic algorithm

Abstract. The paper will use the improved genetic algorithm that adds Gaussian perturbation based on the standard deviation of the population fitness and increases the variance probability operation to optimize the traditional genetic algorithm, and after iterating until the optimal scheduling strategy is found, we combine this algorithm with a mathematical model, and adopt a variety of variations to improve the efficiency of the algorithm. Among them, we take into account the customer flow, area of the store, employee work preference and other related factors to maximize its adaptability. We use real store employee data for simulation example experimental evidence, and compared with other algorithms, the results show that the study of the scheduling optimization ideas and algorithms are practical and feasible.

Population age structure shapes selection on social behaviour in a long-lived insect.

Social traits are expected to experience highly context-dependent selection, but we know little about the contextual factors that shape selection on social behaviours. We hypothesized that the fitness consequences of social interactions will depend on the age of social partners, and therefore that population age structure will shape evolutionary pressures on sociality. Here, we investigate the consequences of age variation at multiple levels of social organization for both individual fitness and sexual selection on social network traits. We experimentally manipulated the age composition of populations of the forked fungus beetle Bolitotherus cornutus, creating 12 replicate populations with either young or old age structures. We found that fitness is associated with variance in age at three different levels of organization: the individual, interacting social partners, and the population. Older individuals have higher reproductive success, males pay a fitness cost when they interact with old males and females achieve lower fitness in older populations. In addition to influencing fitness, population age structure also altered the selection acting on social network position in females. Female sociality is under positive selection only in old populations. Our results highlight age structure as an understudied demographic variable shaping the landscape of selection on social behaviour.This article is part of the discussion meeting issue 'Understanding age and society using natural populations'.

Effect of Chlorantraniliprole on Life History Traits and Relative Fitness of Laboratory-Selected Resistant and Susceptible Populations of Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae).

Insecticides are widely used to control pests and improve agricultural yield. The use of indiscriminate amounts and persistent pesticides has not only resulted in insect pest resistance challenges but has also harmed non-target organisms and contaminated the environment. We assessed the cost-effectiveness of Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) resistance to chlorantraniliprole (CTPR) as part of insect resistance control programs. S. litura larvae were collected from the fields and treated with chlorantraniliprole for 15 generations. Compared to the unselected population (Unsel-Lab), the chlorantraniliprole-selected population (CTPR-Sel) of S. litura exhibited a resistance level of 98.23 times. The findings demonstrated that the chlorantraniliprole-resistant genotype had lower egg-to-adult survivability, longer egg-to-adult developing times, and lower fecundity than the chlorantraniliprole-susceptible genotype. Compared to the Unsel-Lab population, the CTPR-Sel population of S. litura had a poorer relative fitness (0.44) at LC30 and shorter male/female longevity. Demographic parameters, including net reproductive rate (R0) and intrinsic (rm) and finite rate of increase (λ), were lower in the CTPR-Sel strain than in Unsel-Lab S. litura. These findings demonstrate that chlorantraniliprole resistance in S. litura has fitness costs at the individual and population levels, implying that removing the selecting agent from the environment might result in less resistance and opportunities for susceptibility restoration. As a result, the current work could help to determine effective management strategies to prevent chlorantraniliprole resistance in S. litura.

Determining the Fitness Level of People with Down Syndrome Living in Kosovo Based on the ALPHA Protocol

Purpose: This study aimed to establish national norm values for body composition and fitness levels among individuals with Down syndrome. It also aimed to investigate gender differences in body composition features and fitness parameters, analyze the impact of the region where individuals with Down syndrome reside, and compare their fitness levels with international peers. Methods: The sample included 81 participants, 40 females (height: 146.6±4.88 cm, weight: 63.6±16.4 kg) and 41 males (height: 157.4±6.21 cm, weight: 66.8±14.8 kg). To assess the physical fitness levels of the participants with Down syndrome, a modified version of the ALPHA testing protocol was used. Findings: The results demonstrated significant gender differences (p<0.05) in body composition and fitness parameters, with males generally exhibiting better outcomes compared to females. Moreover, significant disparities (p<0.05) in body composition and fitness parameters were observed among individuals with Down syndrome residing in different regions of Kosovo. Noteworthy gender disparities exist in terms of body composition and physical fitness metrics, with male participants achieving superior results compared to their female counterparts. Furthermore, noticeable variations were observed among the regional Down syndrome centers, with participants from older centers displaying improved fitness metrics and body composition features compared to those from newly established facilities. Conclusion: Gender differences in body composition and fitness were evident, with males outperforming females, except in muscle mass. Future studies should explore fitness and health barriers in Kosovo's DS population, with a focus on improving physical activity through tailored strategies.

Temporal trends in weight-based disparities in physical fitness of children: 30-years of continuous surveillance through Slovenian national system

BackgroundObesity in childhood has deleterious consequences for health while improving physical fitness can significantly reduce health risks related to high body mass index. We aimed to examine the evolution of disparities in physical fitness based on weight status among 7–15-year-olds in Slovenia between 1989 and 2019 and compare these trends across sex, age and socioeconomic status.MethodsWe used annual data collected within the SLOfit monitoring system in the period between 1989 and 2019, totalling 4,256,930 participants (about 137 000 per year). We examined cardiorespiratory fitness (600-m run test), muscular fitness (60-s sit-ups, bent arm hang, and standing broad jump test) and skill-related fitness (backwards obstacle course, 60-m dash, arm plate tapping). We grouped children according to the IOTF cut-offs for BMI to those living with normal weight or excess weight and estimated changes in physical fitness over time by fitting quantile regression models separately by sex and age group, and then using segmented regression to identify the patterns of trends over time.ResultsWeight-based disparities in physical fitness were large in 1989 and have further increased by 2019. The increase in disparities was generally around 5 percentiles larger in boys, and 10–15-year-olds compared to younger children. It was particularly pronounced for body core strength and speed in boys (up to 15 and 19 percentiles, respectively) and upper body strength and speed among girls (up to 13 percentiles). Most of the increase in disparities in health-related fitness accumulated during the 2010s, when the fitness of children generally improved, but much less so in children living with excess weight.ConclusionsDespite recent improvements in population fitness levels, children with excess weight seem to be left behind, which adds to existing health inequalities. Our results should encourage policymakers to redesign policies aimed at promoting physical activity and enhancing physical fitness to make them more equitable and ultimately lead to reducing inequalities in fitness.

Physical Fitness Level and the Selected Testing in Individuals with Intellectual Disability (ID): A Scoping Review

Individuals with Intellectual disabilities (ID) demonstrate a lower level of cardiovascular fitness than their normal counterparts, which starts at an early age and deteriorates with age. A poor level of physical fitness among individuals with ID, suggesting the need to improve their cardiovascular endurance, body composition, muscular endurance, strength, and motor coordination. This review aimed to elucidate findings on selected fitness testing used among individuals with ID and their physical fitness status. Literature was searched systematically based on PRISMA guidelines, using Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest databases. Twelve studies were included in the final analysis. There were randomised-controlled studies that investigated the measurement for fitness battery used among children, youth and athletes with ID. There are six main fitness batteries were reported to be used among ID people. Five studies reported to use Eurofit special battery, 3 studies using SAMU Dis fit, 1 study using Brockport, 1 study using Fullerton battery, while another 1 study using combination of Eurofit with Canadian Standard test and 1 study using others physical performance battery. Most of the batteries potentially to assess health and skill related fitness for special group population. The physical fitness tests also may be differ due to the differences in age factors, as a result from differ in capabilities and requirements in their daily functioning. Considering the health conditions of individual with ID, it is important to design and develop the fitness battery accordingly to provide appropriate recommendation to improve their overall wellbeing and health.

Effects of continuous and transgenerational rearing in peanut leaves on the performance and enzyme activity of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae).

The invasive fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, is a polyphagous pest that significantly threatens crops worldwide. FAW may undergo adaptation, enhancing its ability to infect specific plant hosts. However, there is limited knowledge on this topic. After 8 generations of constant rearing on peanut leaves, the performance and enzyme activities of FAW were investigated in this study. Compared to FAW fed on the peanut cultivars 'Fuhua 8' and 'Quanhonghua 1' for 2 generations, those grown on leaves for 5 to 8 generations had significantly shorter pre-adult development times and total preoviposition periods. Fecundity also increased significantly, resulting in an overall improvement in population fitness as measured by demographic parameters. However, the F2 generation of FAW fed on corn leaves outperformed the F8 generation of FAW fed on peanut leaves. In the F2 generation, the FAW peanut population exhibited 30-55% supernumerary larval molts, which decreased substantially in the F5 and F8 generations. Notably, supernumerary larval molts displayed pupation and emergence rates comparable to normal larvae, regardless of the peanut cultivar or rearing generation. The activities of lipase and acetylcholinesterase increased significantly from the F2 to F8 generations, showing substantial negative and positive correlations with larval development time and fecundity, respectively. In conclusion, FAW demonstrated inferior performance on peanut leaves compared to corn leaves, despite its performance was significantly improved after 5 to 8 generations of acclimation. These results suggest that corn will continue to be the primary target crop for FAW in China.

Determining star formation rates in AGN hosts from strong optical emission lines

ABSTRACT The influence of Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN) on star formation within their host galaxies remains a topic of intense debate. One of the primary challenges in quantifying the star formation rate (SFR) within AGN hosts arises from the prevalent assumption in most methodologies, which attribute gas excitation to young stars alone. However, this assumption does not consider the contribution of the AGN to the ionization of the gas in their environment. To address this issue, we evaluate the use of strong optical emission lines to obtain the SFR surface density ($\Sigma {{\rm SFR_{AGN}}}$) in regions predominantly ionized by an AGN, using a sample of 293 AGN hosts from the MaNGA survey, with SFR measurements available through stellar population fitting. We propose calibrations involving the H$\alpha$ and [O iii]$\lambda$5007 emission lines, which can be used to determine $\Sigma {{\rm SFR_{AGN}}}$, resulting in values consistent with those estimated through stellar population fitting.

Genetic rescue often leads to higher fitness as a result of increased heterozygosity across animal taxa.

Biodiversity loss has reached critical levels partly due to anthropogenic habitat loss and degradation. These landscape changes are damaging as they can fragment species distributions into small, isolated populations, resulting in limited gene flow, population declines and reduced adaptive potential. Genetic rescue, the translocation of individuals to increase genetic diversity and ultimately fitness, has produced promising results for fragmented populations but remains underutilized due to a lack of long-term data and monitoring. To promote a better understanding of genetic rescue and its potential risks and benefits over the short-term, we reviewed and analysed published genetic rescue attempts to identify whether genetic diversity increases following translocation, and if this change is associated with increased fitness. Our review identified 19 studies that provided genetic and fitness data from before and after the translocation; the majority of these were on mammals, and included experimental, natural and conservation-motivated translocations. Using a Bayesian meta-analytical approach, we found that on average, genetic diversity and fitness increased in populations post translocations, although there were some exceptions to this trend. Overall, genetic diversity was a positive predictor of population fitness, and in some cases this relationship extended three generations post-rescue. These data suggest a single translocation can have lasting fitness benefits, and support translocation as another tool to facilitate conservation success. Given the limited number of studies with long-term data, we echo the need for genetic monitoring of populations post-translocation to understand whether genetic rescue can also limit the loss of adaptive potential in the long-term.

Galaxy Assembly Bias in the Stellar-to-halo Mass Relation for Red Central Galaxies from SDSS

We report evidence of galaxy assembly bias—the correlation between galaxy properties and biased secondary halo properties at fixed halo mass (M H)—in the stellar-to-halo mass relation for red central galaxies from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. In the M H = 1011.5–1013.5 h −1 M ⊙ range, central galaxy stellar mass (M *) is correlated with the number density of galaxies within 10 h −1 Mpc (δ 10), a common proxy for halo formation time. This galaxy assembly bias signal is also present when M H, M *, and δ 10 are substituted with group luminosity, galaxy luminosity, and metrics of the large-scale density field. To associate differences in δ 10 with variations in halo formation time, we fitted a model that accounts for (1) errors in the M H measured by the J. L. Tinker group catalog and (2) the level of correlation between halo formation time and M * at fixed M H. Fitting of this model yields that (1) errors in M H are ∼0.15 dex and (2) halo formation time and M * are strongly correlated (Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient ∼0.85). At fixed M H, variations of ∼0.4 dex in M * are associated with ∼1–3 Gyr variations in halo formation time and galaxy formation time (from stellar population fitting). These results are indicative that halo properties other than M H can impact central galaxy assembly.