Approximation for Dominating Set Problem with Measure Functions

In this paper, we study the Dominating Set problem with measure functions, which is extended from the general Dominating Set problem. We study the correspondnig problems on complexity, approximation and inapproximability for Dominating Set problem with measure functions. In addition, we extend our results to the weighted graphs

Rethinking Similarity Search: Embracing Smarter Mechanisms over Smarter Data

In this vision paper, we propose a shift in perspective for improving the effectiveness of similarity search. Rather than focusing solely on enhancing the data quality, particularly machine learning-generated embeddings, we advocate for a more comprehensive approach that also enhances the underpinning search mechanisms. We highlight three novel avenues that call for a redefinition of the similarity search problem: exploiting implicit data structures and distributions, engaging users in an iterative feedback loop, and moving beyond a single query vector. These novel pathways have gained relevance in emerging applications such as large-scale language models, video clip retrieval, and data labeling. We discuss the corresponding research challenges posed by these new problem areas and share insights from our preliminary discoveries

Involvement of the Cerebral Monoamine Neurotransmitters System in Antidepressant-Like Effects of a Chinese Herbal Decoction, Baihe Dihuang Tang, in Mice Model

Baihe Dihuang Tang (BDT) is a renowned Chinese herbal formula which is commonly used for treating patients with mental instability, absentmindedness, insomnia, deficient dysphoria, and other psychological diseases. These major symptoms closely associated with the depressive disorders. BDT was widely popular use for treating emotion-thought disorders for many years in China. In the present study, the antidepressant-like effect of BDT in mice was investigated by using the forced swim test (FST) and the tail suspension test (TST). The underlying mechanism was explored by determining the effect of BDT on the level of cerebral monoamine neurotransmitters. BDT (9 and 18 g/kg, p.o. for 14 days) administration significantly reduced the immobility time in both the FST and the TST without changing locomotion in the open field-test (OFT). Moreover, BDT treatment at the dose of 18 g/kg inhibited reserpine-induced ptosis. Meanwhile, BDT enhanced 5-HT and NA levels in mouse cerebrum as well as decreased the ratio of 5-HT compared to its metabolite, 5-HIAA, (turnover, 5-HIAA/5-HT) after TST. The results demonstrated that the antidepressant-like effect of BDT is mediated, at least partially, via the central monoaminergic neurotransmitter system

High reward enhances perceptual learning.

Studies of perceptual learning have revealed a great deal of plasticity in adult humans. In this study, we systematically investigated the effects and mechanisms of several forms (trial-by-trial, block, and session rewards) and levels (no, low, high, subliminal) of monetary reward on the rate, magnitude, and generalizability of perceptual learning. We found that high monetary reward can greatly promote the rate and boost the magnitude of learning and enhance performance in untrained spatial frequencies and eye without changing interocular, interlocation, and interdirection transfer indices. High reward per se made unique contributions to the enhanced learning through improved internal noise reduction. Furthermore, the effects of high reward on perceptual learning occurred in a range of perceptual tasks. The results may have major implications for the understanding of the nature of the learning rule in perceptual learning and for the use of reward to enhance perceptual learning in practical applications

3-Cinnamoyl-4-hydroxy-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2-one ameliorates diabetic peripheral neuropathy in type 2 diabetes mellitus rats via PI3K/Akt signaling pathway

Purpose: To investigate the curative effects of 3-cinnamoyl-4-hydroxy-6-methyl-2H-pyran-2-one (CHMP) on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced model of diabetic SD rats, and the underlying mechanism. Method: Diabetes was induced in rats using single intraperitoneal injection of STZ. Subsequently, diabetic and non-diabetic rats were randomly grouped into five experimental groups. Six weeks after the STZ-injection, the diabetic animals were orally administered test compound (CHMP) at two doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg body weight for 6 weeks. Thereafter, the rats were anesthetised, and body weight, blood sugar, and motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV) were determined. Moreover, real time-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blot analysis were used to assay the expression levels of genes in PIK3/Akt pathway and Glut4. Results: Treatment of diabetic rats with CHMP significantly reduced levels of fasting blood glucose and enhanced average rat body weight, relative to diabetic control (p ˂ 0.05). Motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV) was remarkably increased in CHMP-treated rats (54.2 ± 2.2), when compared to the diabetic control rats (46 ± 4.1, p < 0.01). Results from RT-PCR and western blot indicated increased expressions of PI3K, Akt and IRS-1, and down regulation of GSK-3B expression in skeletal muscle. The CHMP treatment also upregulated the Glut4 expression in skeletal muscle. Conclusion: These findings show that CHMP may be beneficial in the management of diabetic neuropath

Curcumin reduces expression of Bcl-2, leading to apoptosis in daunorubicin-insensitive CD34+ acute myeloid leukemia cell lines and primary sorted CD34+ acute myeloid leukemia cells

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an immunophenotypically heterogenous malignant disease, in which CD34 positivity is associated with poor prognosis. CD34⁺AML cells are 10-15-fold more resistant to daunorubicin (DNR) than CD34^-AML cells. Curcumin is a major component of turmeric that has shown cytotoxic activity in multiple cancers; however, its anti-cancer activity has not been well studied in DNR-insensitive CD34⁺AML cells. The aim of this study was to therefore to explore curcumin-induced cytotoxicity in DNR-insensitive CD34⁺AML cell lines (KG1a, Kasumi-1), DNR-sensitive U937 AML cells, and primary CD34⁺AML bone-marrow-derived cells.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>Primary human CD34⁺cells were isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells or bone marrow mononuclear cells using a CD34 MicroBead kit. The growth inhibitory effects of curcumin were evaluated by MTT and colony-formation assays. Cell cycle distribution was examined by propidium iodide (PI) assay. Apoptosis was analyzed by Wright-Giemsa, Hoechst 33342 and Annexin-V/PI staining assays. The change in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was examined by JC-1 staining and flow cytometry. Expression of apoptosis-related proteins was determined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. Short interfering RNA (siRNA) against <it>Bcl-2 </it>was used in CD34⁺KG1a and Kasumi-1 cells incubated with/without DNR.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Curcumin inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis and G1/S arrest in both DNR-insensitive KG1a, Kasumi-1 and DNR-sensitive U937 cells. Curcumin-induced apoptosis was associated with reduced expression of both Bcl-2 mRNA and protein, subsequent loss of MMP, and activation of caspase-3 followed by PARP degradation. Curcumin synergistically enhanced the cytotoxic effect of DNR in DNR-insensitive KG1a and Kasumi-1 cells, consistent with decreased Bcl-2 expression. Accordingly, siRNA against <it>Bcl-2 </it>increased the susceptibility of KG1a and Kasumi-1 cells to DNR-induced apoptosis. More importantly, curcumin suppressed Bcl-2 expression, selectively inhibited proliferation and synergistically enhanced the cytotoxicity of DNR in primary CD34⁺AML cells, while showing limited lethality in normal CD34⁺hematopoietic progenitors.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Curcumin down-regulates Bcl-2 and induces apoptosis in DNR-insensitive CD34⁺AML cell lines and primary CD34⁺AML cells.</p

Rectal cancer patients with downstaging after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy and radical resection do not benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy

Background: Whether adjuvant chemotherapy is beneficial for rectal cancer patients who respond well to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) and undergo radical resection is controversial. This study aimed to assess the effect of adjuvant chemotherapy on the oncological outcomes of ypT0-2N0 rectal cancer patients after NCRT and radical resection, and identify the prognostic factors. Methods: The clinical and pathological data of rectal cancer patients with ypT0-2N0 who underwent NCRT and radical resection between January, 2010 and June, 2018 were collected and retrospectively analyzed. The oncological outcomes of the chemotherapy (chemo) group and the non-chemotherapy (non-chemo) group were compared. Multivariate analysis, using a Cox proportional hazard model, was performed to identify independent predictors of oncological outcome. Results: Of the 121 rectal cancer patients enrolled, 90 patients received postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy with no fewer than 3 cycles (the chemo group), and the other 31 patients with fewer than 3 cycles (the non-chemo group). There was no significant difference in the 5-year disease-free survival (DFS) or overall survival (OS) rates between the two groups (DFS: 79.1% vs. 82.9%, P=0.442; OS: 87.5% vs. 78.2%, P=0.667). cT4 is an independent risk factor for OS (HR =4.227, 95% CI: 1.128-15.838, P=0.02) and DFS (HR =4.878, 95% CI: 1.752-13.578). Preoperative consolidation chemotherapy with Capeox or FOLFOX after NCRT significantly improved the DFS rate (HR =0.212, 95% CI: 0.058-0.776, P=0.019). Conclusions: Rectal cancer patients with ypT0-2N0 who underwent NCRT and radical resection did not benefit significantly from postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy. For these patients, cT4 was an independent risk factor for OS and DFS. Preoperative consolidation chemotherapy with Capeox or FOLFOX after NCRT can significantly improve DFS

Diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis among asymptomatic HIV+ patients in Guangxi, China

BACKGROUND: Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) among asymptomatic Chinese patients with HIV infection has not been investigated despite high tuberculosis burden in China. This study was aimed to evaluate the prevalence, risk factors and clinical outcomes of PTB among asymptomatic patients with HIV/AIDS in Guangxi to facilitate the development of diagnostic and treatment strategies. METHODS: All asymptomatic adult HIV-infected patients with CD4 < 350 cells/µl who attended four HIV clinics in Guangxi between August 2006 and March 2008 were evaluated for active PTB with physical examination, chest X-ray (CXR), sputum smear and/or sputum liquid culture. Data were described using median (interquartile range, IQR) and frequencies. Univariate and multivariate Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors associated with PTB. RESULTS: Among 340 asymptomatic subjects, 15 (4%) were diagnosed with PTB, with 4 (27%) sputum smear positive and 8 (53%) sputum culture positive. CXR has higher diagnostic sensitivity (87%) than sputum smear (25%) and sputum culture (67%), but lower specificity (56%) compared with sputum smear (99%) and culture (100%). In univariate analysis, injection drug user, body mass index (BMI) < 18 kg/m(2), CD4 < 50 cells/µl and presence of peripheral lymphadenopathy were associated with an increased risk of asymptomatic PTB, while in multivariate analysis only peripheral lymphadenopathy maintained statistical significance (OR = 7.6, 95%CI 1.4 - 40). Patients with negative smear and minor or no abnormalities on CXR had longer interval between screening and TB treatment. CONCLUSIONS: PTB was relatively common in this group of HIV(+) asymptomatic Chinese patients. Diagnosis is challenging especially where sputum culture is unavailable. These findings suggest that an enhanced evaluation for PTB needs to be integrated with HIV care in China and transmission prevention in China to control at both households and health care facilities, especially for patients with factors associated with a higher risk of PTB

The prevalence of dementia in the People’s Republic of China: a systematic analysis of 1980-2004 studies

Abstract Background dementia has been a major public health problem. However, there has not yet been a nationwide investigation or systematic analysis of the prevalence of dementia in China from 1980 to 2004. Objectives the aim of this study was to analyse the prevalence of dementia and its major subtypes [Alzheimer disease (AD), vascular dementia (VD)] among the population aged 60 years and older in China from 1980 to 2004. Methods epidemiological investigations on dementia in China published in journals and covering the period from 1980 to 2004 were identified manually and on-line by using CBMDISK, Chongqing VIP database and CNKI database. Those reported in English journals were identified using MEDLINE. Selected studies had to describe an original study defined by strict screening and diagnostic criteria. The fixed effects model or random effects model was employed according to statistical test for homogeneity. Results twenty-five studies were selected, the statistical information of which was collected for systematic analysis. Our results showed that AD and VD were the two major subtypes of dementia in China, and the pooled prevalence of AD and VD for the population aged 60 years and older was 1.6 and 0.8%, respectively. There was a higher prevalence of AD in the illiterate elderly population (3.2%) than in those who received years of education. The chronological prevalence of AD increased significantly from 1980 to 2004. In southern and northern China, the prevalence of AD was 2.0 and 1.2%, respectively, while VD was 0.6 and 1.1%, respectively. Conclusions in the last 24 years, AD and VD were the two major subtypes of dementia in China. The prevalence of AD may be affected by sex, education, occupation or age. The prevalence of VD, which was higher in northern than in southern China, seems not to be affected by age, sex or education