Diverse Ethnic Composition Research Articles

The prevalence of HPV in Chongqing, China from 2017 to 2022: a retrospective cohort study

Background and aimsHuman papillomavirus (HPV) infection is widespread. The regional differences in infection rates and dominant HPV types are a significant aspect of the virus’s epidemiological characteristics. In China, these differences are further influenced by the country’s diverse ethnic composition, as well as varying economic and cultural conditions across regions. Additionally, factors such as population migration contribute to the exacerbation of these regional disparities in HPV infection rates.MethodsWe conducted an analysis of the current prevalence of HPV among 108,863 patients in Chongqing from 2017 to 2022, along with an investigation into the interaction between HPV and vaginal microbiota. Additionally, we explored the relationship between HPV clearance time and disease outcomes.ResultsOur findings revealed an overall HPV positive rate of 30.14% (32,813/108,863) in Chongqing, China. The top five HPV positive rates were as follows: HPV52 (7.78%), HPV16 (5.85%), HPV58 (4.41%), HPV53 (3.17%), and HPV39 (2.47%). The age-related trend of HPV infection exhibited a bimodal curve. Importantly, the positive rate of high-risk HPV (BV: 24.74%, AV: 24.38%, VVC: 18.19%, TV: 22.81%) was significantly higher than those in the control group (all P<0.05). Follow-up for 4 years, we observed an overall clearance rate of HPV at 92.20%, with a median clearance time of 13 (1-61) months.ConclusionThese findings hold significant implications for the Chinese government in evaluating the prevalence of HPV in the Chongqing region and formulating effective HPV prevention strategies. Moreover, these findings could contribute to the enhancement of public health initiatives related to HPV in the region.

“Incommensurable Airspace”: Image of Russia in Travelogue of Maxim Nezvorov

This article analyzes the image of Russia in Maxim Nezvorov’s travelogue “Journey to Kazan, Vyatka, and Orenburg in 1800.” Based on theoretical frameworks, we identify three aspects of analysis: genre, spatiality, and subjectivity. The study employs structuraldescriptive and cultural-historical methods, alongside the foundational principles of N. L. Leiderman’s genre theory, V. L. Kagansky’s concept of cultural landscape, and B. O. Korman’s ideas on the subject of artistic text. Our findings indicate that the choice of a quasi-documentary epistolary form allowed the author to establish a commitment to authenticity, combined with a characteristically sentimental intention of the “sensitive traveler.” It is demonstrated that Nezvorov delineates a system-forming dichotomy of “centerperiphery,” within which the cultural landscape is (re)constructed. We conclude that the author evaluates a key component of this landscape — urban planning and architecture — while the landscape itself serves a supportive role. Nezvorov pays particular attention to the extraordinarily diverse ethnic composition of the empire’s population. Although he rarely grants his “interlocutors” a voice, their comments and judgments enable a partial reconstruction of the worldview of a person in the early 19th century, one of the key elements of which is the image of Russia.

Exploring racial disparities and tumor characteristics of CA19-9 producer and non-producer among patients with advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC): Implications for survival and personalized treatment strategies.

e16309 Background: Despite substantial progress in cancer treatment, PDAC remains a highly lethal disease. CA19-9 plays a crucial role in PDAC diagnosis and therapeutic response assessment. We aimed to evaluate racial differences, tumor characteristics, and outcomes between CA19-9 non-producers and producers among advanced PDAC patients (pts) at an academic teaching hospital. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted in patients with unresectable or metastatic PDAC treated at Mount Sinai Health System between January 2012 and December 2021. Pts were categorized into two groups based on CA19-9 levels, using a threshold of 37 U/mL: CA19-9 non-producers (≤37 U/mL) and CA19-9 producers ( &gt; 37 U/mL). Demographic and clinical data were compared between the two groups, and the association between CA19-9 levels and overall survival (OS) was assessed using Kaplan-Meier estimates and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models. Results: A total of 238 pts were included in the analysis, with a median age of 67 years and a balanced gender distribution (52% male). The cohort comprised locally advanced (29.8%) and metastatic (70.2%) cases, with a diverse ethnic composition including non-Hispanic whites (37%), non-Hispanic blacks (25%), and Hispanics (18%). Among the pts, 23.5% were CA19-9 non-producers, while 76.5% were CA19-9 producers. Significant racial differences were observed, with non-Hispanic blacks more likely to be CA19-9 non-producers compared to non-Hispanic whites ( P&lt; 0.001). However, no statistically significant differences were found in age, smoking status, tumor location, size, or site of metastasis between the two groups. Median overall survival (OS) was 13m for CA19-9 producers and 16m for non-producers, but this difference was not statistically significant in both univariate and multivariate analyses (HR 1.09, 95% CI 0.74-1.58, P = 0.66; HR 1.06, 95% CI 0.72-1.58, P 0.8). Hispanic ethnicity was correlated with improved OS (HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.36-0.95, P = 0.029), while larger tumor size predicted worse OS (HR 1.17, P &lt; 0.001). Conclusions: This study highlights racial disparities in CA19-9 production among locally advanced and metastatic PDAC patients. Despite observed differences, CA19-9 levels alone did not emerge as a statistically significant predictor of OS. Future research should delve deeper into the racial disparities observed in CA19-9 production, exploring underlying biological mechanisms and potential implications for diagnostic and therapeutic approaches as this could refine our understanding of PDAC, facilitating targeted interventions for improved patient outcomes.

“Maybe he’s thinking something on the inside but is not showing it to us”: The Dynamics of Neighborhood Relations between Azerbaijani and Armenian Communities in a Multiethnic Region in Georgia after the Nagorno-Karabakh War in 2020

This paper explores the specifics of post-conflict neighborhood relations in the Azerbaijani and Armenian communities in Kvemo Kartli, one of the most ethnically mixed regions in Georgia. The diverse ethnic composition of the region and its historical and political background demonstrate that the non-homogenous, multiethnic local communities coexist, coping with post-conflict experiences. Drawing on ethnographic research conducted between 2020 and 2022, including interviews and field observations, this paper presents how the outbreak of the Nagorno-Karabakh war influenced contemporary Azerbaijani-Armenian relations in Georgia. The results of author's research indicate that local communities developed contrasting approaches and strategies while still maintaining neighborly relations involving antagonistic tolerance. The article poses the question of whether relations in the community are based on the komshuluk system, or whether it is rather the case of antagonistic tolerance. It also reveals in what situations conflicts occur and in what situations good neighborly relations are nurtured. Therefore, the research results also fill a gap in the studies on interethnic relations in Georgia after the Nagorno-Karabakh war. This is also the first study that uses the aforementioned theoretical framework to analyze this particular area in Georgia.

Threads of heritage: Intricate patterns of Indonesia and Kazakhstan

Indonesia and Kazakhstan have a rich cultural heritage expressed through intricate patterns and unique threads of art.Indonesia, a country with a rich history and diverse ethnic composition, is known for its unique traditions in textile arts. The richness and variety of Indonesian fabrics such as batik, as well as techniques and patterns that show the cultural characteristics of different regions of Indonesia is very significant in the heritage of Indonesian culture. Particular attention is paid to the symbolism and historical significance of the patterns, as well as their role in rituals and holidays. On the other hand, Kazakhstan, which located in central Eurasia, also has a rich cultural heritage, including unique textile traditions. The features of Kazakh national patterns that show various aspects of the life of this nation are very important. Particular attention is paid to the symbolism of animals and plants in patterns, as well as their role in preserving cultural identity.Overall, the heritage threads of Indonesia and Kazakhstan represent not only artistic expressions, but also important elements of the cultural and historical heritage of these countries. Studying these patterns helps to better understand and appreciate the diversity and richness of the cultural traditions of these peoples.This study aims to understand how the threads of heritage connected into the patterns of Indonesia and Kazakhstan reflect the cultural, historical and religious aspects of these societies.

The future of Afghanistan under Taliban-led regime: challenges and likely scenarios

Since the takeover of the Afghan Taliban, there has been a lack of cohesion on the internal and external front and critical issues, including international recognition, the question of ethnicity, inclusive government, human rights, internal and external security, economy, and regional implication of the security and insecurity. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the likely challenges for the Taliban government in Afghanistan. Being the centre stage of the regional security complex and the diverse ethnic composition, Afghanistan remains an active ground for various fundamental ideologies. The Tehreek Taliban Pakistan (TTP) elements are freely roaming in Afghanistan, along with the news that the Islamic State of Khorasan (ISK) has regrouped itself in various parts of Afghanistan. The questions of terrorist groups are a major concern for the world and the neighbouring states of Afghanistan. Political legitimacy and international recognition are significant challenges for the Taliban regime. Similarly, economic problems and human rights violations are also critical challenges for the Taliban regime. Maintaining good relations with neighbouring states is crucial in ending the diplomatic isolation of the Taliban regime. All these are essential questions for the Taliban regime and the world, and this study has attempted to investigate and analyse possible solutions.

Assessing the utilization of palliative care services in the management of patients with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

256 Background: Pancreatic Cancer is known to be associated with poor survival outcomes and high symptom burden. Integration of early palliative care has been associated with improved end of life care, including reduced hospitalizations and emergency room visits. We conducted a retrospective study to determine the utilization rates of specialist palliative care in patients diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic cancer at an academic teaching hospital and summarize the impact on end-of-life care. Methods: A database of patients diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic cancer on index presentation from 2011 and 2022 was analyzed for utilization of specialist palliative care. Patients who transitioned cancer care to other centers and those who were lost to follow-up were excluded. Data on patient demographics, treatment course, and end-of-life care were collected, and descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. Results: In our study, 168 patients met the inclusion criteria. The average age of diagnosis was 66 years with a diverse ethnic composition, including White (35.7%), African American (26.8%), and Hispanic (15.5%) patients. Among the cohort, 126 out of 168 (75%) patients were seen by palliative care at least once, with 79 (62.7%) of them initially seen during one of the hospitalizations, and 47 (37.3%) were seen by palliative care outpatient for the first time. The median duration between pancreatic cancer diagnosis and first encounter with palliative care was 145 days (IQR 305 days). No significant differences were found in terms of age, race, sex, ethnicity or insurance type between patients who received palliative care and those who did not. The median time from consultation to death was 57 days and 36.5% patients received palliative care only within one month of their death. Patients who received palliative care were more likely to have a DNR/DNI code status (86.7% vs. 13.3%, p &lt; 0.001) and were more likely to be enrolled in hospice care (86.3% vs. 13.7%, p &lt; 0.001). Conclusions: Early involvement of specialist palliative care in management of patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer may lead to optimization of health care services with earlier hospice referrals and comfort directed care at the end of life. Further research is warranted to explore the impact of palliative care on patient outcomes, quality of life, and the potential benefits of aligning treatment decisions with patients' end-of-life preferences.

The Dynamics of Federalism in Pakistan: An Examination of Political: Structures and Challenges

This article delves into the intricate dynamics of federalism in Pakistan, a country with a rich tapestry of ethnic, linguistic, and cultural diversity, which has profoundly influenced its political structures since its inception in 1947. The study traces the evolution of federalism in Pakistan, highlighting how historical events, constitutional developments, and political maneuvers have shaped its current form. A significant focus is placed on the Lahore Resolution of 1940, which set the foundation for Pakistan's federal structure, and the subsequent constitutional changes, especially the 1956 Constitution and the pivotal 18th Amendment. These constitutional milestones have had far-reaching implications on the balance of power between the central government and the provinces. The article examines the complex interplay between Pakistan's diverse ethnic composition and its federal structure. Ethnic and regional disparities have often led to tensions and demands for greater autonomy, notably in regions like Balochistan. Additionally, the centralization of power, particularly the influential role of the military and centralized political parties, has further complicated the federal dynamics. The economic aspect of federalism is also explored, with a focus on the disparities in resource allocation and fiscal management between the federal center and the provinces. These factors collectively exacerbate the challenges facing Pakistan's federalism. The article concludes by addressing the current challenges and future prospects for federalism in Pakistan. It underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of the diverse political, ethnic, and economic landscapes and advocates for inclusive and equitable governance. This study provides valuable insights into the complexities of federalism in Pakistan, offering a comprehensive analysis that is crucial for policymakers, scholars, and those interested in the political evolution of federations in a diverse and dynamic context.

The Autosomal Short Tandem Repeat Polymorphisms Are Potentially Associated with Cardiovascular Disease Predisposition in the Latin American Population: A Mini Review.

According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide across nearly all ethnic groups. Inherited cardiac conditions comprise a wide spectrum of diseases that affect the heart, including abnormal structural features and functional impairments. In Latin America, CVDs are the leading cause of death within the region. Factors such as population aging, unhealthy diet, obesity, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle have increased the risk of CVD. The Latin American population is characterized by its diverse ethnic composition with varying percentages of each ancestral component (African, European, and Native American ancestry). Short tandem repeats (STRs) are DNA sequences with 2-6 base pair repetitions and constitute ~3% of the human genome. Importantly, significant allele frequency variations exist between different populations. While studies have described that STRs are in noncoding regions of the DNA, increasing evidence suggests that simple sequence repeat variations may be critical for proper gene activity and regulation. Furthermore, several STRs have been identified as potential disease predisposition markers. The present review is aimed at comparing and describing the frequencies of autosomal STR polymorphisms potentially associated with cardiovascular disease predisposition in Latin America compared with other populations.

아프리카의 발전국가모델에 대한 연구

This study analyzed the similarities and differences between countries achieving high economic growth in Africa and the East Asian model, and examined the implications of developmental states in Africa through comparison. Today, African states share many similarities with the developmental states of East Asia in the past, and express their willingness to follow the development experience of East Asia. However, in the past, developmental states in East Asia did not follow the Western and Japanese models as they were, but made successful developments by applying them according to the characteristics of each country. Developmentalism contributed to growth in East Asia, but inequality between classes remains a serious problem to this day. Considering the diverse ethnic composition and long colonial experiences of African states, the follow-up of the East Asian model is likely to lead to other problems, such as increased corruption. African states need to consider the limitations and side effects that have emerged in East Asian states through flexible “application” rather than “reconstruction” existing models.

Canadian Multiculturalism and the Muslim Community

In his article, the author examines the position of the Muslim community as a visible minority in the multicultural mosaic of modern Canada. Special attention is paid to the stages of formation of the Muslim community in Canada, its structure, as well as demographic indicators. The author convincingly reveals the multilevel structure of the community, its diverse ethnic composition. It also reveals current trends in the development of the Muslim community in Canada, the political views of its members and the attitude to Muslim values within the value structure of modern Canadian society. The author does not ignore the problems faced by Muslims in the country.

Ukrainians in Belarus: distribution and ethnolinguistic processes

&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; The article analyzes the distribution and ethnolinguistic processes in the environment of the Ukrainian diaspora in Belarus. Because of the fact that the part of Ukrainian ethnic territory (currently Brest region) is located in Belarus, not all Ukrainians living in the country can be correctly named a diaspora. To avoiding terminology-related complications, in the article we use the general term Ukrainian diaspora. The study is based on the results of censuses conducted in Belarus after 1991. The article analyzes the ethnic environment of residence of the Ukrainian diaspora based on the ethnocultural and ethnolinguistic criteria of the censuses. In particular, using mathematical and statistical methods of analysis of the ethnic composition of the country’s population, we estimated such indicators as the index of ethnic diversity, ethnic mosaic, socio-ethnic density, etc. These indicators were estimated for districts and the largest cities of Belarus, taking into account the largest ethnic groups living in the country. The result of these estimations was the creation of a number of thematic maps that complement the article. The study highlights the areas of compact residence of Ukrainians, identifies districts and cities where the number of Ukrainians changed the most and the least during the inter-census periods of 1999–2009 and 2009–2019. The dynamics of the number and settlement of Ukrainians in the Ukrainian ethnic territories is analyzed. In this context, it was found that in addition to the Brest region, there is a dense concentration of Ukrainians in the capital, major cities of the country, a number of district centers in the southwestern part of the country. It was determined that the share of Ukrainians living in cities is growing. The growth rate of the number of Ukrainians for the period between 2009 and 2019 in the largest cities of the country ranges from + 7% (Mogilev) to 77.45% (Novopolotsk). It was found that the country is monoethnic in its ethnic composition based on the analysis of a number of indicators related to the ethnic composition of the population of Belarus. A more diverse ethnic composition of the population and therefore higher rates were recorded in large cities and areas densely populated with individual ethnic groups (Russians, Poles and Ukrainians). The Ukrainian diaspora in the country is undergoing processes of Russification, the share of Ukrainians who indicate Ukrainian as their mother tongue is declining. The share of Ukrainians whose native language is Belarusian is also declining. That is, it can be argued that Russification affects not only Ukrainians in Belarus, but also the Belarusians themselves. The research also revealed that villagers are more resistant to language assimilation,and Ukrainians in cities most often indicate Russian as their native language.&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D;

Exploring Extrinsic and Intrinsic Work Values of British Ethnic Minorities: The Roles of Demographic Background, Job Characteristics and Immigrant Generation

Despite the increasingly diverse ethnic composition of the British labor force, there is no research investigating whether ethnic minorities have different work values from the White British demographic (White British). Using nationally representative data (2012–2013), this article fills this gap by comparing extrinsic and intrinsic work values between White British and five ethnic minorities, while distinguishing between first and second generations. The results show that both first- and second- generation minorities have stronger extrinsic work values than White British, but the ethnic differences are more pronounced for the second generations. Compared to White British, while first-generation minorities have weaker intrinsic work values, the second generations have stronger intrinsic work values. Differences in extrinsic work values are partly explained by differences in age, education and income, while differences in intrinsic work values are largely explained by age, education and job autonomy. These results hold significant implications for understanding the career choices of ethnic minorities and labor market outcomes.

Polish-Ukrainian Borderland Cultural Heritage Bridges—Lesson Drawn from Forced Population Relocation

Due to the turbulent history, unstable political situation, and the diverse ethnic composition of the population, there are numerous and varied cultural heritage objects in the Polish-Ukrainian borderland area, which has also developed characteristic landscape forms. The aim of the paper is to identify the elements of Polish cultural heritage that have remained in the collective memory of inhabitants of the Ukrainian side of the Polish-Ukrainian borderland 75 years after the forced relocation. The questionnaire survey was carried out in 2019 in selected cities of Eastern Galicia, namely, Zhovkva, Mostyska, Horodok, and Rava-Ruska. The study demonstrated that even 75 years after the forced relocation, Polish cultural heritage is still alive and has an effect on the development of the border towns and cities of Eastern Galicia. It is the elements of non-material culture, including the gastronomic culture of relocated nations, that have been preserved the best in the collective memory of borderland inhabitants. The Ukrainian population also demonstrated a good knowledge of Polish traditions and Catholic feasts as well as folk songs and Christmas carols. These are “cultural heritage bridges” that may serve as both a forum for mutual understanding and a platform for a dialogue and cooperation.

REFLECTION OF INTERACTION BETWEEN THE MORDOVIANS AND THE CHUVASH IN ETHNOGRAPHIC LITERATURE

Peoples with a diverse ethnic composition represent a considerable interest in ethnographic research aimed at identifying the connections and commonalities between individual peoples. Here it is possible to trace the relationship between peoples, interpenetration of their cultures in different historical periods. The Middle Volga region, being one of the multi-ethnic and multicultural regions of our country, provides a unique opportunity to explore the processes of formation and development of inter-ethnic communications. In particular, current problems of modern ethnographic science include the study of interethnic interactions, the analysis of which will significantly expand understanding of peoples’ historical destinies, identify common and special features in their material and spiritual culture. Studying the cultural interrelations of the peoples living in our country is of significant interest for elucidating not only the history of each nation individually, but the processes of cultural mutual enrichment as well. Beyond that, it makes it possible to identify the origins of historically established friendship between peoples. Cultural interrelations between the Mordovian and the Chuvash have a long history. Archaeological and ethnographic data show that these connections, which enriched the material and spiritual culture of both peoples, had an ancient basis and created favorable conditions for the development of friendship between the peoples. Ethnographic studying the traditional culture of the Mordovians living in the territory of Chuvashia, we recorded parallels in the traditional culture of the peoples under consideration. There are no special works on this scope of issues. That is why we consider studying the common features in the material and spiritual culture of the Moravians and the Chuvash to be important for the subsequent in-depth study of their ethno-cultural interactions.

Терехівська говірка в контексті діалектного континууму української мови

In the article, on the basis of linguistic analysis, the dialect features of the Terekhiv sub-dialect of the Polissya dialect of the Ukrainian language are investigated, which is due to the actualization of the study of separate microareals of the dialect space. Today, dialectical discourse is perceived not as a deviation from the literary norm, but as another, equal form of the national language with significant linguistic and communicative potential. Polissya is characterized by a diverse ethnic composition, which makes this region, an area of multilateral intensive ethnic contacts, and creates the preconditions for the study of interlingual and interdialectal interactions. The source of the study is the actual material collected in 4 localities: Terekhivtsi, Malynivtsi, Tovstolis, Stasy. The main geohistorical data of the villages subordinated to the Terekhiv rural community are established, which explain the peculiarities of the formation of vocal and consonant systems of speech, word-changing paradigms. It was found that the speech of dialect speakers was formed under the influence of the languages of countries that played a significant role in the history of Chernihiv: the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, Russia, Belarus. Phonetic and morphological features of speech as a separate microareal of dialect space are revealed and characterized. Dialectal differences proved to be multifaceted, both in their meaning and in their functional yield. At the level of vocalism and consonantism, the most notable phenomena are “akanya” (karomyslo, ad'in, stayat); “dzekannya” (dz'akuvalá, dzadz'ko) the presence of the diphthong ie (d'evchini, b'iel'en'k'iy, hm'iel'u); crossing of sound fields / i / and / y / (vkral'i, sakol'ik, z'imu); preservation of the relic of ancient softness [h'] (chi, khoch', vódoch'k'i); getting harder [ts′] (khlóptsy, vyétsa, zhýrytsa). Among the mophological features the most characteristic are the ancient ending -e and the absence of elongation in the nouns of the second declension of the middle gender (káhane, plákan’e), short forms of masculine adjectives in N. v. (sl’ip, smut’ón, ves’ól), unstressed forms of adjectives of the middle gender (saldatskóye, bahátoye), forms of the past tense (býla z vám’i s’edalá). It has been established that the Terekhiv sub-dialect has many dialectal features that are common of the transitional dialects of the Ukrainian language Polissya dialect. Significantly expressed is the influence of the Belarusian and Russian languages. In addition, the sub-dialects of this region, like most sub-dialects of the Polissya area, retain a number of archaic features.

«Украинский вопрос на страницах газеты «Южный край» (март – октябрь 1917 г.)

The article analyses the editorial policy of the newspaper “Yuzhny Kray”, which had a significant circulation in Kharkiv. The subject of the study is the newspaper’s publications from March to October 1917, i.e. during the Provisional Government. Among other issues put on the agenda by the revolutionary wave, the Ukrainian question can be singled out in particular. In modern conditions, when Russian-Ukrainian relations are subject to serious tests, it is important to refer to the crucial events of 1917. The author focuses on the plots related to the spread of the Ukrainian language and culture, the dialogue of Russian and Ukrainian cultures in the Kharkiv province, which had a very diverse ethnic composition. Of particular interest are the issues related to the teaching of the Ukrainian language in the Kharkiv province. In addition, the author analyses the articles about the Ukrainian Central Rada, some events (all-Ukrainian Peasant Congress, Congress of Ukrainian socialists-revolutionaries, Kiev Congress of Ukrainian Lawyers, etc.), newspaper publications concerning the reaction of the authorities and social groups to the problem of Ukrainism. The athour concludes that the newspaper “Yuzhny Kray” reflected primarily the views of the liberal intelligentsia and followed the policy of the Provisional Government on the Ukrainian issue, generally supporting the idea of creating national and cultural autonomy of the Ukrainian people, but criticizing the the Central Rada policy of federalization and demanding guarantees for national minorities in the territory of the would-be Ukrainian autonomy.

Hunter Music and Arts Festival in the Period of Igor Sonevytsky's Organizational Activity (1982-2004)

The purpose of the research. The purpose of the article is to characterize the Hunter Music and Art Festival in terms of its content, the importance for the development of Ukrainian culture and the high level of organization of Igor Sonevitsky. The methodology of the research combines the use of analytical and comparative methods of work, which allowed to reveal the originality of the project, its high professional level and the involvement of well-known Ukrainian artists. The scientific novelty of the article is to identify the peculiarities of the festival in terms of analyzing the content of concert events, participation of bright personalities, ensuring a high performing level and various artistic practices in the context of belonging to Ukrainian culture. The research was conducted on the basis of a scrupulous analysis of the materials of I. Sonevitsky's archive: festival programs, seasonal booklets, concert brochures, Voice of America radio scripts, epistolary, and a digitized video of the 1997 concert, which provided convincing evidence of the importance of researching a cultural and artistic project, the professionalism of its participants, the originality of the national position aimed at promoting the Ukrainian heritage and the elevation of cultural life for both the Ukrainian diaspora and the local people. Conclusions. Igor Sonevitsky's organization of the Hunther Music and Arts Festival promoted the active promotion of Ukrainian culture on the territory of the North American continent. Programs of the concert repertoire featured Ukrainian works, and young Ukrainian composers and performers had the opportunity to collaborate with well-known foreign artists. In addition to the Ukrainian diaspora, the diverse ethnic composition of the local population was also given the opportunity to learn about the identity of Ukrainian culture, its ethnic customs and peculiarities. In this way, thanks to Igor Sonevitsky's perfect organizational skills, there was an active integration of national art into a wide expanse of world culture.

Language nativisation and ideologies in Ajégúnlè (Lagos)

This paper investigates language use and ideologies in Ajégúnlè among the members of the Performing Musicians Employers' Association of Nigeria (PMAN). Ajégúnlè has been characterised by lack of social cohesion and group identity. Due to the diverse ethnic composition of the neighbourhood, Nigerian Pidgin has been used as a main community language in the last decades. The reggae musicians in Ajégúnlè also use Nigerian Pidgin in their songs and during their weekly meeting. Their sociolinguistic profile suggests that they use Nigerian Pidgin as a first language. In their discourse they put forward ideologies that are different from those commonly associated to the pidgin, and I named them ‘belonging’, ‘seriousness’, ‘overseas’ and ‘Yorùbá.

Effects of Recent Stress and Variation in the Serotonin Transporter Polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) on Depressive Symptoms: A Repeated-Measures Study of Adults Age 50 and Older

Depending on genetic sensitivity to it, stress may affect depressive symptomatology differentially. Applying the stress-diathesis hypothesis to older adults, we postulate: (1) recent stress will associate with increased depressive symptom levels and (2) this effect will be greater for individuals with at least one short allele of the serotonin transporter gene promoter region (5-HTTLPR). Further, we employ a design that addresses specific limitations of many prior studies that have examined the 5-HTTLPR × SLE relation, by: (a) using a within-person repeated-measures design to address fluctuations that occur within individuals over time, increase power for detecting G×E, and address GE correlation; (b) studying reports of exogenous stressful events (those unlikely to be caused by depression) to help rule out reverse causation and negativity bias, and in order to assess stressors that are more etiologically relevant to depressive symptomatology in older adults. The sample is drawn from the Health and Retirement Study, a U.S. population-based study of older individuals (N=28,248; mean age=67.5; 57.3% female; 80.7% Non-Hispanic White, 14.9% Hispanic/Latino, 4.5% African American; genetic subsample=12,332), from whom measures of depressive symptoms and exogenous stressors were collected biannually (1994-2010). Variation in the 5-HTTLPR was characterized via haplotype, using two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Ordered logit models were constructed to predict levels of depressive symptoms from 5-HTTLPR and stressors, comparing results of the most commonly applied statistical approaches (i.e., comparing allelic and genotypic models, and continuous and categorical predictors) used in the literature. All models were stratified by race/ethnicity. Overall, results show a main effect of recent stress for all ethnic groups, and mixed results for the variation in 5-HTTLPR×stress interaction, contingent upon statistical model used. Findings suggest there may be a differential effect of stressors and 5-HTTLPR on depressive symptoms by ethnicity, but further research is needed, particularly when using a haplotype to characterize variation in 5-HTTLPR in population-based sample with a diverse ethnic composition.