bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Correlation between Quality of Life and Subjective Evaluation of Air Quality—Empirical Research Based on CHARLS 2018 Data
Authors: Du Yuanfang , You Shibing , Zhang Mengyu , Song Ze , Liu Weisheng , Li Dongju
Published: November 2021

This paper mainly focuses on the relationship between the subjective evaluation of air quality and the quality of life (QOL) of middle-aged and elderly residents in China. The 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) project database is the key sources of data, from which 16,736 valid samples were used in our research. Multivariate linear regression analysis and binomial logistic regression model were applied to detect the impact of the subjective evaluation of air quality on QOL, which was evaluated in two dimensions, which are health utility and experienced utility, using the health utility EQ-5D score and the experienced utility of life satisfaction score. Our results show that there is a significant positive correlation between the subjective evaluation of air quality and the two dimensions of QOL. Age, education, marital status and sleep status also have a relatively great impact on the QOL of residents. This worked studied the overall QOL of middle-aged and elderly residents in China, while policy suggestions regarding high-quality air public goods are also given in the paper.
Impact of the Madden–Julian Oscillation on North Indian Ocean Cyclone Intensity
Authors: Ali M. M. , Tanusha Uppalapati Naga , Chand C. Purna , Himasri Borra , Bourassa Mark A. , Zheng Yangxing
Published: November 2021

The influence of the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) on the intensity of the Tropical Cyclones in the North Indian Ocean is investigated through a machine learning algorithm. The magnitude of wind, considered as a proxy for the intensity, is taken from the Joint Typhoon Warning Centre (JTWC), and the MJO information for 1974–2019 is from Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology. These two observations have been collocated and the influence of MJO indices on the wind speed was studied using an artificial neural network technique. The scatter index, defined as the root mean square error (RMSE) normalized to the input data mean, varies from 0.45 for depressions to 0.03 for the super cyclonic storms, indicating that the MJO index is another parameter that should be investigated in cyclone activity studies.
Impact of the Atmospheric Photochemical Evolution of the Organic Component of Biomass Burning Aerosol on Its Radiative Forcing Efficiency: A Box Model Analysis
Authors: Zhuravleva Tatiana B. , Nasrtdinov Ilmir M. , Konovalov Igor B. , Golovushkin Nikolai A. , Beekmann Matthias
Published: November 2021

We present the first box model simulation results aimed at identification of possible effects of the atmospheric photochemical evolution of the organic component of biomass burning (BB) aerosol on the aerosol radiative forcing (ARF) and its efficiency (ARFE). The simulations of the dynamics of the optical characteristics of the organic aerosol (OA) were performed using a simple parameterization developed within the volatility basis set framework and adapted to simulate the multiday BB aerosol evolution in idealized isolated smoke plumes from Siberian fires (without dilution). Our results indicate that the aerosol optical depth can be used as a good proxy for studying the effect of the OA evolution on the ARF, but variations in the scattering and absorbing properties of BB aerosol can also affect its radiative effects, as evidenced by variations in the ARFE. Changes in the single scattering albedo (SSA) and asymmetry factor, which occur as a result of the BB OA photochemical evolution, may either reduce or enhance the ARFE as a result of their competing effects, depending on the initial concentration OA, the ratio of black carbon to OA mass concentrations and the aerosol photochemical age in a complex way. Our simulation results also reveal that (1) the ARFE at the top of the atmosphere is not significantly affected by the OA oxidation processes compared to the ARFE at the bottom of the atmosphere, and (2) the dependence of ARFE in the atmospheric column and on the BB aerosol photochemical ages almost mirrors the corresponding dependence of SSA.
Raindrop Size Distribution and Rain Characteristics of the 2017 Great Hunan Flood Observed with a Parsivel2 Disdrometer
Authors: Luo Li , Wang Ling , Huo Tao , Chen Mingxuan , Ma Jianli , Li Siteng , Wu Jingya
Published: November 2021

Disdrometer observations obtained by an OTT Parsivel2 during the 2017 Great Hunan Flood from 1:00 a.m. LST 23 June 2017 to 4:00 a.m. LST 2 July 2017 in Changsha, Hunan Province, southern China, are analyzed to diagnose characteristics of raindrop size distribution (DSD). This event was characterized by a large number of small- to medium-sized raindrops (diameters smaller than 1.5 mm) and the mean median volume diameter (D0) is about 1.04 mm. The median values of rain rate R (1.57 mm h−1), liquid water content W (0.10 g m−3), and radar reflectivity Z (25.7 dBZ) are smaller than that of the 2013 Great Colorado Flood. This event was composed of two intense rainfall periods and a stratiform period, and notable distinctions of rainfall microphysics among the three rainfall episodes are observed. Two intense rainfall periods were characterized by widespread and intense convection rains with a surface reflectivity of 48.8~56.7 dBZ. A maximum diameter of raindrops up to 7.5 mm was observed, as well as high concentrations of small and midsize drops, resulting in large rainfall amounts during the two intense rainfall episodes. The mean radar reflectivity of 22.6 dBZ, total rainfall of 17.85 mm and the maximum raindrop of approximately 4.25 mm were observed during the stratiform rainfall episode. The composite DSD for each rainfall episode peaked at 0.56 mm but higher concentrations of raindrops appeared in the two intense rainfall episodes. The Z-R relationships derived from the disdrometer measurements reflect the unusual characteristics of DSD during the flood. As a result, the standard NEXRAD Z-R relationship (Z = 300R1.4) strongly underestimated hourly rainfall by up to 27.5%. In addition, the empirical relations between rainfall kinetic energy (KE) versus rainfall intensity (R) and mean mass diameter (Dm) are also derived using DSDs to further investigate the impacts of raindrop properties on the rainfall erosivity.
Trends and Variability of Ozone Pollution over the Mountain-Basin Areas in Sichuan Province during 2013–2020: Synoptic Impacts and Formation Regimes
Authors: Chen Youfan , Han Han , Zhang Murong , Zhao Yuanhong , Huang Yipeng , Zhou Mi , Wang Cong , He Guangyan , Huang Ran , Luo Bin , Hu Yongtao
Published: November 2021

Sichuan Province, the most industrialized and populated region in southwestern China, has been experiencing severe ozone pollution in the boreal warm season (April–September). With a surface ozone monitoring network and reanalysis dataset, we find that nearly all cities in Sichuan Province showed positive increasing trends in the warm-season ozone levels. The warm-season daily maximum 8-h average (MDA8) ozone levels increased by 2.0 ppb (4.8%) year−1 as a whole, with slightly larger trends in some sites such as a site in Zigong (5.2 ppb year−1). Seasonally, the monthly ozone level in Sichuan peaks from May to August (varies with year). The predominant warm-season synoptic patterns were objectively identified based on concurrent hourly meteorological fields from ERA5. High-pressure systems promote ozone production and result in high ozone concentrations, due to strong solar radiation as well as hot and dry atmospheric conditions. The increased occurrence of high-pressure patterns probably drives the ozone increase in Sichuan. When ozone pollution is relatively weak (with MDA8 ozone around 170 μg m−3), the air quality standard could be achieved in the short term by a 25% reduction of NOx and VOCs emissions. Strengthened emission control is needed when ozone pollution is more severe. Our study provides implications for effective emission control of ozone pollution in Sichuan.
Nabla Fractional Derivative and Fractional Integral on Time Scales
Authors: Gogoi Bikash , Saha Utpal Kumar , Hazarika Bipan , Torres Delfim F. M. , Ahmad Hijaz
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we introduce the nabla fractional derivative and fractional integral on time scales in the Riemann–Liouville sense. We also introduce the nabla fractional derivative in Grünwald–Letnikov sense. Some of the basic properties and theorems related to nabla fractional calculus are discussed.
The Impact of Big Data Adoption on SMEs’ Performance
Authors: Nasrollahi Mahdi , Ramezani Javaneh , Sadraei Mahmoud
Published: November 2021

The notion of Industry 4.0 encompasses the adoption of new information technologies that enable an enormous amount of information to be digitally collected, analyzed, and exploited in organizations to make better decisions. Therefore, finding how organizations can adopt big data (BD) components to improve their performance becomes a relevant research area. This issue is becoming more pertinent for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), especially in developing countries that encounter limited resources and infrastructures. Due to the lack of empirical studies related to big data adoption (BDA) and BD’s business value, especially in SMEs, this study investigates the impact of BDA on SMEs’ performance by obtaining the required data from experts. The quantitative investigation followed a mixed approach, including survey data from 224 managers from Iranian SMEs, and a structural equation modeling (SEM) methodology for the data analysis. Results showed that 12 factors affected the BDA in SMEs. BDA can affect both operational performance and economic performance. There has been no support for the influence of BDA and economic performance on social performance. Finally, the study implications and findings are discussed alongside future research suggestions, as well as some limitations and unanswered questions.
Circular RNA—Is the Circle Perfect?
Authors: Caba Lavinia , Florea Laura , Gug Cristina , Dimitriu Daniela Cristina , Gorduza Eusebiu Vlad
Published: November 2021

Circular RNA (circRNA) is a distinct class of non-coding RNA produced, in principle, using a back-splicing mechanism, conserved during evolution, with increased stability and a tissue-dependent expression. Circular RNA represents a functional molecule with roles in the regulation of transcription and splicing, microRNA sponge, and the modulation of protein–protein interaction. CircRNAs are involved in essential processes of life such as apoptosis, cell cycle, and proliferation. Due to the regulatory role (upregulation/downregulation) in pathogenic mechanisms of some diseases (including cancer), its potential roles as a biomarker or therapeutic target in these diseases were studied. This review focuses on the importance of circular RNA in cancer.
Moisture Accumulation in Building Façades Exposed to Accelerated Artificial Climatic Ageing—A Complementary Analysis to NT Build 495
Authors: Asphaug Silje Kathrin , Time Berit , Kvande Tore
Published: November 2021

Building façades must endure severe climatic exposure throughout their lifetimes. To prevent damage and expensive repairs, ageing tests are used in durability assessments. The NT Build 495 describes an artificial ageing procedure to address building material and component resistance to ultraviolet (UV) light, heat, water, and frost using a climate simulator. The test has been used for decades to investigate exterior surface materials and façade products but has only recently been adopted for multi-layered systems. This study investigates moisture accumulation in a façade system for retrofitting based on concrete and thermal insulation. Hygrothermal simulations of the façade system subjected to ageing were conducted. Moisture accumulation was considered theoretically for the current test procedure and compared to a modified setup in which the interior climate was controlled at 21 °C. Physical measurements were performed in the climate simulator to determine the boundary conditions. Results showed that moisture accumulation in the thermal insulation was largely affected by the type of concrete, that applying a water-repellent surface treatment reduced moisture accumulation, and that the current setup resulted in less moisture accumulation compared to the modified setup. The latter implicates accelerated degradation with the modified setup.
Shear Behavior of Reinforced Post-Filling Coarse Aggregate Concrete Beams Produced by Creative Construction Process
Authors: Jia Jinqing , Cao Qi , Zhang Lihua , Hu Yulong , Meng Zihan
Published: November 2021

Different from the traditional concrete mixing procedure, the innovative post-filling coarse aggregate concrete (PFCC) reduces the cost of pumping concrete by increasing the coarse aggregate content and reducing the usage of cement. Previous studies have shown that PFCC enhances the compressive strength, elastic modulus, and flexural strength of concrete. In this paper, the shear behavior of 13 post-filling coarse aggregate concrete beams and 3 control beams was tested to determine the relationships between the shear performance of the beam and the post-filling coarse aggregate ratio, concrete strength grade, shear span ratio and stirrup reinforcement ratio. The results showed that the ultimate shear capacity of beam specimen increases first and then decreases with the increase in post-filling coarse aggregate ratio, reaching the maximum at 15% post-filling ratio. The results also indicated that the ultimate shear capacity of the beam increases with the increase in concrete strength grade and stirrup ratio. However, experimental results exhibited that the ultimate shear capacity decreases as the shear span ratio increases. This study provides a reference for the application of post-filling coarse aggregate concrete in engineering practice.
Immunotherapy Approaches in HPV-Associated Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Julian Ricklie , Savani Malvi , Bauman Julie E.
Published: November 2021

Immunotherapy approaches for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) are rapidly advancing. Human papillomavirus (HPV) has been identified as a causative agent in a subset of oropharyngeal cancers (OPC). HPV-positive OPC comprises a distinct clinical and pathologic disease entity and has a unique immunophenotype. Immunotherapy with anti-PD1 checkpoint inhibitors has exhibited improved outcomes for patients with advanced HNSCC, irrespective of HPV status. To date, the clinical management of HPV-positive HNSCC and HPV-negative HNSCC has been identical, despite differences in the tumor antigens, immune microenvironment, and immune signatures of these two biologically distinct tumor types. Numerous clinical trials are underway to further refine the application of immunotherapy and develop new immunotherapy approaches. The aim of this review is to highlight the developing role of immunotherapy in HPV-positive HNSCC along with the clinical evidence and preclinical scientific rationale behind emerging therapeutic approaches, with emphasis on promising HPV-specific immune activators that exploit the universal presence of foreign, non-self tumor antigens.
The Role of Bitter Taste Receptors in Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zehentner Sofie , Reiner Agnes T. , Grimm Christoph , Somoza Veronika
Published: November 2021

Background: Since it is known that bitter taste receptors (TAS2Rs) are expressed and functionally active in various extra-oral cells, their genetic variability and functional response initiated by their activation have become of broader interest, including in the context of cancer. Methods: A systematic research was performed in PubMed and Google Scholar to identify relevant publications concerning the role of TAS2Rs in cancer. Results: While the findings on variations of TAS2R genotypes and phenotypes and their association to the risk of developing cancer are still inconclusive, gene expression analyses revealed that TAS2Rs are expressed and some of them are predominately downregulated in cancerous compared to non-cancerous cell lines and tissue samples. Additionally, receptor-specific, agonist-mediated activation induced various anti-cancer effects, such as decreased cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, as well as increased apoptosis. Furthermore, the overexpression of TAS2Rs resulted in a decreased tumour incidence in an in vivo study and TAS2R activation could even enhance the therapeutic effect of chemotherapeutics in vitro. Finally, higher expression levels of TAS2Rs in primary cancerous cells and tissues were associated with an improved prognosis in humans. Conclusion: Since current evidence demonstrates a functional role of TAS2Rs in carcinogenesis, further studies should exploit their potential as (co-)targets of chemotherapeutics.
Delirium in Palliative Care
Authors: Bramati Patricia , Bruera Eduardo
Published: November 2021

Delirium, a widespread neuropsychiatric disorder in patients with terminal diseases, is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, profoundly impacting patients, their families, and caregivers. Although frequently missed, the effective recognition of delirium demands attention and commitment. Reversibility is frequently not achievable. Non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions are commonly used but largely unproven. Palliative sedation, although controversial, should be considered for refractory delirium. Psychological assistance should be available to patients and their families at all times.
Neo-Adjuvant Chemotherapy Reduces, and Surgery Increases Immunosuppression in First-Line Treatment for Ovarian Cancer
Authors: De Bruyn Christine , Ceusters Jolien , Landolfo Chiara , Baert Thaïs , Thirion Gitte , Claes Sandra , Vankerckhoven Ann , Wouters Roxanne , Schols Dominique , Timmerman Dirk , Vergote Ignace , Coosemans An
Published: November 2021

In monotherapy, immunotherapy has a poor success rate in ovarian cancer. Upgrading to a successful combinatorial immunotherapy treatment implies knowledge of the immune changes that are induced by chemotherapy and surgery. Methodology: Patients with a new d ovarian cancer diagnosis underwent longitudinal blood samples at different time points during primary treatment. Results.: Ninety patients were included in the study (33% primary debulking surgery (PDS) with adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT), 61% neo-adjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) with interval debulking surgery (IDS), and 6% debulking surgery only). Reductions in immunosuppression were observed after NACT, but surgery reverted this effect. The immune-related proteins showed a pronounced decrease in immune stimulation and immunosuppression when primary treatment was completed. NACT with IDS leads to a transient amelioration of the immune microenvironment compared to PDS with ACT. Conclusion: The implementation of immunotherapy in the primary treatment schedule of ovarian cancer cannot be induced blindly. Carboplatin–paclitaxel seems to ameliorate the hostile immune microenvironment in ovarian cancer, which is less pronounced at the end of primary treatment. This prospective study during primary therapy for ovarian cancer that also looks at the evolution of immune-related proteins provides us with an insight into the temporary windows of opportunity in which to introduce immunotherapy during primary treatment.
A Population-Based Study of Cardiovascular Disease Mortality in Italian Cancer Patients
Authors: Mangone Lucia , Mancuso Pamela , Tarantini Luigi , Larocca Mario , Bisceglia Isabella , Damato Angela , Giorgi Rossi Paolo , Navazio Alessandro , Pinto Carmine
Published: November 2021

The present research describes 25 years of cardiovascular mortality in a cohort of patients in Northern Italy. The study included patients with malignant cancer enrolled in the period of 1996–2019, and describes cardiovascular and cancer mortality in relation to sex, age, year of diagnosis, months of survivorship, tumor site, and standardized mortality ratio (SMR). Out of 67,173 patients, 38,272 deaths (57.7%) were recorded: 4466 from cardiovascular disease (CVD) (6.6%), and 28,579 (42.6%) from cancer. The proportion of CVD death increased from 4.5% in the first two years after diagnosis, to 7.3% after more than 10 years, while the proportion of deaths from cancer decreased from 70.5% to 9.4%. The CVD SMR comparing cancer patients with the general population was 0.87 (95% CI: 0.82–0.92) in 1996–1999, rising to 0.95 (95% CI: 0.84–1.08) in 2015–2019, without differences in terms of sex or age. The risk of dying from CVD was higher compared with the general population (SMR 1.31; 95% CI: 1.24–1.39) only in the first two years after diagnosis. The trend over time underscored that CVD deaths increased in patients with breast, bladder, prostate, and colorectal cancers, and, in the more recent period, for kidney cancer and melanoma patients. Our data confirmed that cardiovascular mortality is an important issue in the modern management of cancer patients, suggesting the need for an extensive interdisciplinary approach.
Regulatory T Cell as a Biomarker of Treatment-Free Remission in Patients with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Fujioka Yuki , Sugiyama Daisuke , Matsumura Itaru , Minami Yosuke , Miura Masatomo , Atsuta Yoshiko , Ohtake Shigeki , Kiyoi Hitoshi , Miyazaki Yasushi , Nishikawa Hiroyoshi , Takahashi Naoto
Published: November 2021

Treatment-free remission (TFR) has become a therapeutic goal in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), and approximately half of the patients with chronic phase-CML (CML-CP) with deep molecular remission (DMR) by tyrosine-kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have achieved TFR. However, the mechanism of continuous TFR is still unclear, as there are “fluctuate” patients who have BCR–ABL-positive leukemia cells but do not observe obvious relapse. We focused on the immune response and conducted an immune analysis using clinical samples from the imatinib discontinuation study, JALSG-STIM213. The results showed that, in the group that maintained TFR for 3 years, changes in regulatory T (Treg) cells were observed early after stopping imatinib treatment. The effector Treg (eTreg) cells increased transiently at 1 month after stopping imatinib and then returned to baseline at 3 months after stopping imatinib treatment. There was no difference in the Treg phenotype, and CD8+ T cells in the TFR group were relatively activated. High concentrations of imatinib before stopping were negatively correlated with eTreg cells after stopping imatinib. These data suggest immunological involvement in the maintenance of the TFR, and that Treg cells after stopping imatinib might be a biomarker for TFR. Furthermore, high imatinib exposure may have a negative immunological impact on the continuous TFR.
The Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition Influences the Resistance of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma to Monoclonal Antibodies via Its Effect on Energy Homeostasis and the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Bai Yunpeng , Sha Jingjing , Okui Tatsuo , Moriyama Ichiro , Ngo Huy Xuan , Tatsumi Hiroto , Kanno Takahiro
Published: November 2021

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a major type of cancer that accounts for over 90% of all oral cancer cases. Recently developed evidence-based therapeutic regimens for OSCC based on monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), such as cetuximab, pembrolizumab, and nivolumab, have attracted considerable attention worldwide due to their high specificity, low toxicity, and low rates of intolerance. However, the efficacy of those three mAbs remains poor because of the low rate of responders and acquired resistance within a short period of time. The epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) process is fundamental for OSCC growth and metastasis and is also responsible for the poor response to mAbs. During EMT, cancer cells consume abundant energy substrates and create an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment to support their growth and evade T cells. In this review, we provide an overview of the complex roles of major substrates and signaling pathways involved in the development of therapeutic resistance in OSCC. In addition, we summarize potential therapeutic strategies that may help overcome this resistance. This review aims to help oral oncologists and researchers aiming to manage OSCC and establish new treatment modalities.
MiRNA Deregulation Distinguishes Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma (ATC) and Supports Upregulation of Oncogene Expression
Authors: Misiak Danny , Bauer Marcus , Lange Jana , Haase Jacob , Braun Juliane , Lorenz Kerstin , Wickenhauser Claudia , Hüttelmaier Stefan
Published: November 2021

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is the most fatal and rapidly evolving endocrine malignancy invading the head and neck region and accounts for up to 50% of thyroid cancer-associated deaths. Deregulation of the microRNA (miRNA) expression promotes thyroid carcinoma progression by modulating the reorganization of the ATC transcriptome. Here, we applied comparative miRNA–mRNA sequencing on a cohort of 28 thyroid carcinomas to unravel the association of deregulated miRNA and mRNA expression. This identified 85 miRNAs significantly deregulated in ATC. By establishing a new analysis pipeline, we unraveled 85 prime miRNA–mRNA interactions supporting the downregulation of candidate tumor suppressors and the upregulation of bona fide oncogenes such as survivin (BIRC5) in ATC. This miRNA-dependent reprogramming of the ATC transcriptome provided an mRNA signature comprising 65 genes sharply distinguishing ATC from other thyroid carcinomas. The validation of the deregulated protein expression in an independent thyroid carcinoma cohort demonstrates that miRNA-dependent oncogenes comprised in this signature, the transferrin receptor TFRC (CD71) and the E3-ubiquitin ligase DTL, are sharply upregulated in ATC. This upregulation is sufficient to distinguish ATC even from poorly differentiated thyroid carcinomas (PDTC). In sum, these findings provide new diagnostic tools and a robust resource to explore the key miRNA–mRNA regulation underlying the progression of thyroid carcinoma.
Early TP53 Alterations Shape Gastric and Esophageal Cancer Development
Authors: Sahgal Pranshu , Huffman Brandon M. , Patil Deepa T. , Chatila Walid K. , Yaeger Rona , Cleary James M. , Sethi Nilay S.
Published: November 2021

Gastric and esophageal (GE) adenocarcinomas are the third and sixth most common causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide, accounting for greater than 1.25 million annual deaths. Despite the advancements in the multi-disciplinary treatment approaches, the prognosis for patients with GE adenocarcinomas remains poor, with a 5-year survival of 32% and 19%, respectively, mainly due to the late-stage diagnosis and aggressive nature of these cancers. Premalignant lesions characterized by atypical glandular proliferation, with neoplastic cells confined to the basement membrane, often precede malignant disease. We now appreciate that premalignant lesions also carry cancer-associated mutations, enabling disease progression in the right environmental context. A better understanding of the premalignant-to-malignant transition can help us diagnose, prevent, and treat GE adenocarcinoma. Here, we discuss the evidence suggesting that alterations in TP53 occur early in GE adenocarcinoma evolution, are selected for under environmental stressors, are responsible for shaping the genomic mechanisms for pathway dysregulation in cancer progression, and lead to potential vulnerabilities that can be exploited by a specific class of targeted therapy.
Identification of Tobacco-Related Cancer Diagnoses among Individuals with Psychiatric Disorders: A Population-Based Matched Cohort Study Using a Competing Risks Approach from British Columbia
Authors: Olson Robert , McLay Mary , Hamm Jeremy , Callaghan Russell C.
Published: November 2021

Background: Individuals with psychiatric disorders (PD) have a high prevalence of tobacco use. Therefore, we assessed the hazard of receiving a tobacco-related (TR) cancer diagnosis among individuals with PD. Methods: Several population-based provincial databases were used to identify individuals in BC diagnosed with depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, or multiple PD between 1990 and 2013. A primary population proxy comparison group (appendicitis) was also identified and matched to the psychiatric cohort based on age at cohort entry, gender, year of cohort entry, and postal code. We linked individuals in the cohort and comparison groups with the BC Cancer Registry. Using a competing risks approach, we estimated the effect of having a PD on the risk of receiving a TR cancer diagnosis, in light of the competing risk of mortality. Results: In total, 165,289 patients were included. Individuals with depression (HR = 0.81; p < 0.01; 95% CI: 0.73–0.91), anxiety disorders (HR = 0.84; p = 0.02; 95% CI: 0.73–0.97), or multiple PD (HR = 0.74; p < 0.01; 95% CI: 0.66–0.83) had a statistically significant lower risk of a TR cancer diagnosis compared to the comparison group. Individuals with schizophrenia (HR = 0.86; p = 0.40; 95% CI: 0.62–1.21) or bipolar disorder (HR = 0.58; p = 0.12; 95% CI: 0.29–1.14), however, showed no evidence of a statistically significant difference from the comparison group. Interpretation: We found that individuals with depression, anxiety disorders, or multiple PD diagnoses had a significantly reduced risk of receiving a tobacco-related cancer diagnosis. These results were unexpected and could be explained by individuals with a PD having barriers to a cancer diagnosis rather than a true decreased incidence.
Monuments and Monumentality in a Changing Socio-Political Landscape: A View from Udaypura
Authors: Khan Rafia
Published: November 2021

This work intends to explore the nature of socio-political change in historical periods usually referred to as interregnal which, for the purposes of this paper, is defined as a period of discontinuity or gap in political and social organization. It traces the survival of a historical monument through two interregnal centuries of medieval Indian sub-continental history (11th–12th and 14th) to argue that modern historiographical templates which study these periods as precursors or remnants of succeeding and preceding centuries, respectively, do not sufficiently explore the socio-political possibilities innate in these periods of distributed political agency. In the context of Indian history, while historians have focused on the confrontational aspect of Hindu-Muslim polities or communities in interregnal centuries, I suggest that these periods provided fertile ground for political innovation and negotiation, thus breaking the confrontational stasis usually associated with regnal centuries.
Contrast Agent Mimicking Calculi in Entrapped Calyx. A Report of a Case
Authors: Zervopoulos Georgios , Venetsanos Filippos
Published: November 2021

Urolithiasis is a common condition, and it represents a large number of hospital visits. Under the term infundibulopelvic dysgenesis, many conditions amongst a spectrum of congenital disorders of the pelvicalyceal system are described. Retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) is an effective and safe treatment modality in the management of urinary system stone disease. Fluoroscopic imaging is a cornerstone in endourology. Herein, we present a case where we diagnosed an obstructed calyx during RIRS for renal calculi and operated on it. In this extraordinary case, contrast agent was trapped in the calyx mimicking a renal stone and that was the reason that we discovered the infundibular stenosis. The patient, 24 h after the operation, left the hospital without any complications reported.
From One to Three: China’s Motherhood Dilemma and Obstacle to Gender Equality
Authors: Gao Fang , Li Xia
Published: November 2021

The implementation of China’s three-child policy has prompted considerable attention and discussion. From “one child” to “two-child” to “three-child,” the Chinese government has considered the macro population structure in previous reproductive policy adjustments while ignoring the difficulties and necessities of parenting. The child-rearing costs that should have been shared by the family and the state are left to be shouldered by the family alone. Gender equality and women’s development have lagged, while the traditional role of women and the sharing of family responsibilities between men and women have stagnated. The easing of the fertility policy will increase the frequency of childbirth and result in greater difficulties faced by women in the workplace. Childbirth negatively impacts women’s wages, and as its intensity continues to increase, so does the problem of maternal punishment. This study presents situations that illuminate the plight of Chinese mothers. Solving the motherhood dilemma cannot be achieved by making a mother choose between prioritizing herself or her child. Only by detaching privatization from motherhood, returning to public politicization, treating gender equality promotion as only the starting point, and strengthening social support and public service can the motherhood dilemma truly be resolved.
NEW APPROACHES TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF STATE PROGRAMS OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION AND THE FIRST EXPERIENCE OF THEIR PRACTICAL IMPLEMENTATION
Authors: Gumerov Rustam R.
Published: November 2021

Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 786 of May 26, 2021 «On the Management System of State Programs of the Russian Federation» (hereinafter — Resolution No. 786) approved new rules for the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness of state programs of the Russian Federation. In the development of the resolution, the Order of the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation No. 500 dated August 17, 2021 adopted methodological recommendations for the development and implementation of state programs of the Russian Federation that meet new requirements. Programs should acquire a homogeneous structure that includes five main elements: a list of strategic priorities, a passport of the state program containing goals and indicators with their decomposition by region, passports of federal, departmental projects and complexes of process measures (structural elements of the state program), plans for the implementation of structural elements and a regulatory «substrate» — acts necessary for the implementation of the program. For each state program, as well as its individual elements, a list of socially significant indicators linked to national development goals should be formed. In all state programs, the project part will be allocated, providing for the implementation of specific tasks and obtaining unique results for a limited period of time. One of the first (if not the first) to approve the updated version of the State Program for the Development of Agriculture and Regulation of Agricultural Products, Raw Materials and Food Markets (hereinafter also referred to as the State Program, Program), which comes into force on January 1, 2022. On the example of the updated version of the State Program, the article provides a critical and constructive analysis of systemic problems that may arise in the development of state programs of the Russian Federation as part of the implementation of a new system of program-targeted management.
STATE INDUSTRIAL POLICY SECTORAL, REGIONAL, CORPORATE ASPECTS OF EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION
Authors: Vinslav Yuriy B.
Published: November 2021

The increasing importance of the sectoral aspects of the implementation of the state industrial policy is characterized. The analysis of a number of existing state programs in the industrial sphere is given. The main shortcomings of sectoral strategic planning documents are systematized; relevant recommendations are outlined. The features of the implementation of industrial policy at the macro level at the regional level are considered. Recommendations are given to ensure the consistency of federal and regional documents on industrial policy. The key risks and conditions of effective implementation of the state industrial policy at the corporate level are identified. The requirements for the content of corporate standards that take into account the requirements of the state industrial policy have been developed. Recommendations are formulated to improve the strategic planning of companies in the context of reflecting the objectives of the state industrial policy. A management algorithm for linking the objectives of industrial policy at the macro level and corporate incentive factors is proposed.
POST-SOVIET DRAMA OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS (IN CONNECTION WITH THE 99TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FORMATION OF THE USSR AND THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF ITS ABOLISHMENT)
Authors: Lyubinin Aleksandr В.
Published: November 2021

The article was prepared in connection with the 99th anniversary of the formation of the USSR and the 30th anniversary of the termination of its existence. The article reveals the relationship between the norms of the Constitution of the USSR of 1924 (and subsequent versions of the document) on the self-determination of nations and their right to secede from the Union with the real process of destruction of a single state. It is shown that the disintegration of the Union was carried out not in connection with the constitutional right of the union republics to self-determination, not with the observance of the appropriate procedures for leaving the single state, but, on the contrary, on an anti-constitutional basis. The author reveals the artificial and politically motivated nature of the arguments regarding the «mines» laid down in their time by the Bolsheviks under the national state structure of the USSR. This device turned out to be productive both for repelling military aggression and for peaceful construction, because it was formed taking into account the totality of the binding circumstances of its time, on the principles of equality and voluntary self-determination. It has been proven that the absence of the right to secede from parts of a single state does not provide any guarantees against the collapse of this state, an example of which is the European monarchies that ended their journey at the beginning of the 20th century, as well as the events in the USSR and around the Chechen Republic. The fundamental difference between constitutional multinational formations, one of which was the Soviet Union, and formations built on a contractual basis following the example of the Gorbachev SSG, the Belovezhskaya agreement on the creation of the CIS and the Union State of Russia and Belarus, is revealed.
PROBLEMS OF DEVELOPMENT AND MODERNIZATION OF THE EDUCATION SYSTEM IN THE FAR NORTH REGIONS
Authors: Sinitsa Arseniy L.
Published: November 2021

The Far North is of great importance to the country’s economy but social problems appear faster than the authorities have time to solve them. As a result, the macro-region faces a strong permanent migration outflow, which impedes its socio-economic development. One of such problems is the low quality of education. The indicators characterizing the development of the education system in the Far North regions are worse and often the gap with the rest of the country increases. The article considers some problems of education system development in these regions and proposes measures to solve them. Three areas of modernization of the education system can be distinguished. The first is the need for greater attention to demographic trends. Despite the decline in the number of young people it occurs in a wave-like manner and it is necessary to take into account such dynamics. The educational system as a whole, and not just particular levels, should be developed in order to reduce migration outflows. The second direction implies improving the information support of the policy (including the gathering and publication of more statistical data), improving the financing of the education system and libraries, as well as repairing buildings and providing access to high-speed Internet. In this context, special attention should be paid to improving the quality of planning for the development of the education system. The third direction concerns balancing the graduation from educational institutions and the demand for labor in the labor market, reducing the number of graduates who work outside their specialty, as well as increasing the social status and prestige of pedagogical employees.
THE FACTORS INFLUENCING THE SUCCESS OF INTRODUCTION OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES INTO THE ACTIVITIES OF RUSSIAN ENTERPRISES
Authors: Gudkova Tatiana V. , Kasparyan Alisa S.
Published: November 2021

Currently, increased competition in all industries encourages enterprises to look for new ways to improve their competitiveness. Today, in the conditions of the digital economy, digital transformation, implying the introduction of modern technologies into all business processes, can become a key tool that allows you to quickly adapt to changes in market conditions. In this study, on the basis of regression analysis, the factors contributing to the success of the introduction of digital technologies at industrial enterprises in Russia, as well as the barriers that arise in the way of their digital transformation, are identified.
Paulo Freire: o antropófago da educação
Authors: Silva Ivete Souza da
Published: November 2021

Pensar a educação a partir dos pressupostos antropofágicos de devoração e criação é o exercício proposto neste artigo tendo nas práticas do educador Paulo Freire subsídios teóricos e epistemológicos para sua elaboração. Paulo Freire fez e refez a sua prática em íntima comunhão com sua teoria, e ambas, prática e teoria, se fizeram com as pessoas que andaram com ele em cada um dos lugares por onde andou/trabalhou, sendo um exemplo de antropófago da/na educação brasileira. O texto revisita as ideias de Paulo Freire re-inventando a re-invenção proposta em Tese de Doutoramento, onde estabeleceu-se diálogo entre os pressupostos da Antropofagia Cultural Brasileira e as práticas inventivas de Paulo Freire, Augusto Boal e Hélio Oiticica. O conceito de Antropofagia abordado refere-se ao movimento cultural ocorrido na década de 1920 no Brasil, que tinha como principal objetivo romper com padrões de arte e cultura europeus. O que era externo a nós deveria ser devidamente devorado e ruminado ao sabor das nossas culturas e de nossas necessidades, evitando a cópia de modelos padronizados e descontextualizados, abrindo espaço para a criação de uma arte e cultura com elementos nossos. O princípio antropofágico nos desafia a criação de práticas pedagógicas contextualizadas, criadas a partir da devoração que fizemos do outro que compõe conosco o espaço educativo. Nesse sentido, busca-se trazer elementos que exemplifiquem o exercício antropofágico vivido por Paulo Freire durante a elaboração dos seus conceitos teóricos e epistemológicos, bem como apresentar um exercício de reinvenção do pensamento freireano através de uma proposição educativa vivenciada.
Cytotoxic, Antibacterial, and Leishmanicidal Activities of Paullinia pinnata (Linn.) Leaves
Authors: Adeyemo-Salami Oluwatoyin Adenike , Iqbal Choudhary Muhammad
Published: November 2021

Background: Paullinia pinnata leaves are employed traditionally for the treatment of various ailments which are of biological origin. Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore cytotoxic, antibacterial, and antileishmanial properties of the leaves of Paullinia pinnata using in vitro models. Methods: Brine shrimp lethality bioassay was used to determine the cytotoxic activity of the methanol leaf extract of Paullinia pinnata. The activity of the extract against the growth of cultured Leishmania major (DESTO) promastigotes was used to investigate the leishmanicidal activities. The agar well diffusion method was used to investigate the antibacterial activity against Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Shigella flexneri, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus subtilis. Results: The methanol leaf extract of P. pinnata had no activity against Artemia salina (brine shrimp) and L. major. It showed a non-significant activity against E. coli and B. subtilis and no activity against P. aeruginosa, S. flexneri, S. typhi, and S. aureus. Conclusion: The methanol leaf extract of P. pinnata did not exhibit any cytotoxic and anti-leishmanial properties. Moreover, the activity against various species of bacteria was not significant.
RESULT OF ANALYSIS OF DEPENDENCE OF THE NUMBER OF FULFILLED AND RUDIMENTARY LOTUS KOMAROV SEEDS ON THE SIZE OF SEED BOXES
Authors: Gordienko I.
Published: November 2021

The seeds collected from individually selected plants were studied according to the main linear parameters of morphological elements, the degree of variability and the presence of percentages. The main regularities between the linear dimensions of the seed elements and the size of the seed capsule containing them are revealed.
THE IMPACT OF CHEMICAL INDUSTRY EMISSIONS ON THE CONDITION OF TREE STANDS IN THE CITY OF VORONEZH
Authors: Popova M.
Published: November 2021

The sanitary and hygienic condition of tree stands exposed to increased anthropogenic load, namely, the impact of industrial chemical pollution in the urban environment, is evaluated. The difference in the forest pathological state of trees is explained by their age, proximity to emission sources, highways, residential buildings, as well as different degrees of resistance to chemical pollutants in urban areas. The main types exposed to industrial emissions affecting the condition of tree stands are identified, with subsequent distribution by condition categories. Five reference points are proposed for studying the effects of chemical air pollution on plant biota. The characteristic species composition of woody vegetation growing on the territory of the selected objects under study was determined, and the percentage of their occurrence was calculated. At the test sites located near the sources of emissions, a high percentage of individuals affected by spot or spot necrosis and having pathological signs of the trunk, water shoots, shrunken skeletal branches and tops were noted, in contrast to the plantings located in the so-called zone of moderate pollution and at the control point at the maximum distance from the sources of emissions. Individuals promising in monitoring of atmospheric air pollution have been identified.
PHYTODESIGN OF INTERIORS OF SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS OF THE CITY OF VORONEZH: STYLISTIC FEATURES AND ASSORTMENT OF PLANTS
Authors: Tarapura E. , Kochergina Marina
Published: November 2021

In connection with the distance of man from nature, the issues of landscaping, both open spaces and interiors, have become particularly relevant in the XXI century. One of the signature of a modern metropolis is a multi-purpose shopping and entertainment centers (SEC) and complexes (SEC). Every day, the shopping center is visited by hundreds of people of almost all age groups. A well-planned interior and a comfortable environment directly affect the number of visitors and their purchasing power. The most important condition for the comfort of the interior is a phytodesign. Plant compositions in shopping centers make the space attractive and cozy. Staying in green areas does not cause oversaturation and fatigue, allowing the eye to rest in a timely manner. The paper presents the results of studying the features of landscaping of the interiors of the shopping center of the city of Voronezh. Stylistic solutions, the range and condition of the plants used are analyzed. Currently, artificial plants are used in the interiors of most of the shopping centers of our city, which only partially perform the functions of phytodesign. At the same time, stylistic and compositional solutions differ in relative monotony. The implementation of the project of landscaping the interiors of the shopping center with the use of live plants should be preceded by pre-project studies, including the definition of the style and microclimatic parameters of the room (illumination, temperature and relative humidity), identification of the features of the flow of visitors, as well as zoning of the territory.