bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Restorative benefits of classroom windows: a study on the effect of window:wall ratio on task load and learning performance based on VR technology
Authors: Zhang Yalin , Jing Xiaotong , Liu Chao , Sun Yinan , Wang Wenhao , Gao Weijun
Published: June 2024

As a connection to the outdoor environment, windows can relieve the stress, emotional, and cognitive fatigue that building users face from long hours of study. It provides restorative function for building users between study and work, thus reducing task load and improving learning performance. To investigate the effects of different window:wall ratios (WWRs) on task load and learning performance, virtual reality (VR) technology was used to build virtual classrooms with WWRs of 25%, 40%, 55%, 70%, and 85%. The task performances, physiological data, and subjective evaluations of 34 college studies were analyzed. It was found that the highest subjective psychological loads were in classrooms with a 25% WWR and were lowest when the WWR was 55%. Participants performed best in classrooms with a WWR of 55%. Further multiobjective optimization with particle swarm optimization found that 58.41–62.24% WWR not only contributed to the users’ physical and mental happiness but also improved their learning efficiency. In addition, the participant’s HRV-LF/HF and EEG β wave values were significantly correlated with their performance on the task test. These findings provide a reference for the spatial design of school classrooms and a foundation for further research into the relationship between HRV and EEG physiological indicators and learning efficiency.
Quality of life, clinical outcomes and cost utilization of endoscopic therapy in patients with Barrett’s esophagus and early esophageal cancer—an 8-year Canadian experience
Authors: David Joel , Woo Matthew , Congly Stephen , Andrews Christopher N , Jeyalingam Thurarshen , Belletrutti Paul J , Gupta Milli
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

Endoscopic treatment is a definitive and cost-effective management strategy for early neoplasia in Barrett’s oesophagus (BE). However, little is known of its impact on quality of life (QoL). This study reports outcomes of endoscopic eradication treatment (EET), focusing on QoL and costs in a Canadian tertiary referral centre.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study using a prospectively maintained clinical database captured validated QoL metrics during and at the end of EET, risk factors for BE, treatment response, complications, costs, and follow-up response of all treated Barrett patients in Calgary and Southern Alberta, Canada.

Results

A total of 147 BE patients were treated from 2013 to 2021. All patients showed significant improvement in almost all QoL parameters except depression. There was significant improvement in 7 of the 8 QoL metrics in those who achieved complete eradication of intestinal metaplasia (CEIM). EET was successful in achieving complete eradication of dysplasia (CED) and CEIM in 93.4% and 74.3% of patients, respectively, with a median of 3 radio frequency ablation treatments. Longer circumferential segments of BE (Cx) predicted a lower likelihood of achieving CEIM. The average total cost to achieve CED and CEIM were $10 414.58 and $9347.93CAD, respectively (compared to oesophagectomy estimated at $58 332.30 CAD).

Conclusion

This Canadian cohort reports significant post-treatment improvement in QoL parameters in patients treated to CEIM or CED over an 8-year period. EET for BE eradication is cost-effective compared to oesophagectomy. There was a low rate of complications and recurrence post-CEIM.
Associations between early changes in the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio after radical nephroureterectomy and treatment outcomes
Authors: Saito Shun , Takahashi Hidetsugu , Yata Yuji , Takamizawa Shigeyoshi , Hara Shuhei , Miyajima Keiichiro , Iwatani Kosuke , Yasue Keiji , Nishikawa Hideomi , Yamamoto Toshihiro , Koide Haruhisa , Sadakane Ibuki , Atsuta Mahito , Mori Keiichiro , Imai Yu , Kayano Sotaro , Murakami Masaya , Tashiro Kojiro , Tsuzuki Shunsuke , Yamada Hiroki , Miki Jun , Urabe Fumihiko , Kimura Takahiro , On behalf of JIKEI-SCRUM Collaborative Group
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This study explored the impacts of peri-operative changes in the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) on the survival rate after radical nephroureterectomy.

Methods

This retrospective analysis included a multicentric cohort of patients diagnosed with upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) who had undergone radical nephroureterectomy from 2012 to 2021. We assessed the preoperative NLR, postoperative NLR, delta-NLR (difference between postoperative and preoperative NLRs), and NLR change (ratio of postoperative to preoperative NLR). Additionally, patients were categorized according to increases in their preoperative and/or postoperative NLRs. Associations of survival with peri-operative changes in the NLR were investigated using Cox multivariate regression models.

Results

A total of 488 patients were included in the study, with a median age of 73 years. Among the patients, 105 (21.5%) exhibited elevated preoperative and postoperative NLRs, 88 (18.0%) exhibited elevated preoperative NLR only, 53 (10.9%) exhibited elevated postoperative NLR only, and 242 (49.6%) exhibited normal NLRs. Multivariate analysis indicated significant negative correlations between both preoperative and postoperative increased NLRs and oncological outcomes, including nonurothelial tract recurrence-free survival and cancer-specific survival (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.65, P = 0.017; HR: 2.12, P = 0.014, respectively).

Conclusion

This is the first study to evaluate the association between peri-operative changes in the NLR and the outcomes of patients with UTUC who underwent radical nephroureterectomy. Patients with elevated NLRs at both time points experienced considerably worse outcomes. Further research should explore whether increases in the NLR during long-term follow-up could indicate impending disease recurrence.
Radiation-induced eCIRP impairs macrophage bacterial phagocytosis
Authors: Yamaga Satoshi , Murao Atsushi , Zhou Mian , Aziz Monowar , Brenner Max , Wang Ping
Published: June 2024

Macrophages are essential immune cells for host defense against bacterial pathogens after radiation injury. However, the role of macrophage phagocytosis in infection following radiation injury remains poorly examined. Extracellular cold-inducible RNA-binding protein is a damage-associated molecular pattern that dysregulates host immune system responses such as phagocytosis. We hypothesized that radiation-induced extracellular cold-inducible RNA-binding protein release impairs macrophage phagocytosis of bacteria. Adult healthy mice were exposed to 6.5 Gy total body irradiation. Primary peritoneal macrophages isolated from adult healthy mice were exposed to 6.5 Gy radiation. Extracellular cold-inducible RNA-binding protein–neutralizing monoclonal antibody was added to the cell culture prior to irradiation. Bacterial phagocytosis by peritoneal macrophages was assessed using pHrodo Green-labeled Escherichia coli 7 d after irradiation ex vivo and in vitro. Bacterial phagocytosis was also assessed after treatment with recombinant murine cold-inducible RNA-binding protein. Rac1 and ARP2 protein expression in cell lysates and extracellular cold-inducible RNA-binding protein levels in the peritoneal lavage were assessed by western blotting. Bacterial phagocytosis by peritoneal macrophages was significantly decreased after irradiation compared with controls ex vivo and in vitro. Rac1 and ARP2 expression in the peritoneal macrophages were downregulated after total body irradiation. Total body irradiation significantly increased extracellular cold-inducible RNA-binding protein levels in the peritoneal cavity. Recombinant murine cold-inducible RNA-binding protein significantly decreased bacterial phagocytosis in a dose-dependent manner. Extracellular cold-inducible RNA-binding protein monoclonal antibody restored bacterial phagocytosis by peritoneal macrophages after irradiation. Ionizing radiation exposure impairs bacterial phagocytosis by macrophages after irradiation. Neutralization of extracellular cold-inducible RNA-binding protein restores the phagocytic ability of macrophages after irradiation. Our findings elucidate a novel mechanism of immune dysfunction and provide a potential new therapeutic approach for limiting infection after radiation injury.
Urban landscape as a determinant of sarcosaprophagous fly assemblages of sanitary interest: a comparative field study between larviparous and oviparous reproductive strategies
Authors: Battán Horenstein Moira , Montes Marcela , Gleiser Raquel M
Published: June 2024

In Diptera, reproductive strategies vary according to the stage of development of the newly deposited offspring and their abundance. The aim of our study is to establish connections between the reproductive strategies of flies (larviparous or oviparous) and the prevailing local conditions (sun or shade) as well as landscape attributes (low or high urbanization) in an urban setting. We collected flies using 2 baited traps (in the sun or shade) at each of the 13 study sites with varying levels of urbanization. We used generalized linear mixed models to examine the impact of landscape and local characteristics on the diversity (abundance and richness of larviparous and oviparous Diptera) of sarcosaprophagous flies. Our findings indicate that while the abundance and diversity of both larviparous and oviparous flies are affected by urbanization, larviparous flies would be less sensitive to more urbanized environments. Larviparous also exhibit a preference for resources under sun exposure, while the responses of oviparous seem more species-dependent. The observed patterns can be explained by the known biology of the studied groups.
The risk and benefit profiles of US-eligible lung cancer screening attendees vs nonattendees
Authors: Zhang Elizabeth Y , Cheung Li C , Katki Hormuzd A , Graubard Barry I , Jemal Ahmedin , Chaturvedi Anil K , Landy Rebecca
Published: June 2024

Background

The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommend lung cancer screening for individuals aged 50-80 years with at least 20 pack-years and no more than 15 quit-years, but uptake is low. The risk and benefit profiles of screening attendees are unknown; consequently, the impact and lost opportunity of ongoing lung cancer screening in the United States remains unclear.

Methods

We estimated lung cancer death risk (using the Lung Cancer Death Risk Assessment Tool) and life gained from screening (using the Life Years Gained From Screening-Computed Tomography model) for individuals aged 50-79 years who ever-smoked in the US representative 2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. We compared lung cancer death risk and life gained among USPSTF-eligible individuals by screening status (self-reported screened vs not screened in past year) and estimated the number of lung cancer deaths averted and life-years gained under current screening levels and if everyone eligible was screened.

Results

USPSTF eligibility was 33.7% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 33.1% to 34.4%), of whom 17.9% (95% CI = 17.0% to 18.8%) self-reported screening. Screening uptake increased with increasing lung cancer death risk quintile (Q1 = 5.2%, 95% CI = 3.0% to 8.8%; Q5 = 21.8%, 95% CI = 20.3% to 23.3%) and life-gain from screening quintile (Q1 = 6.2%, 95% CI = 3.8% to 9.9%; Q5 = 20.8%, 95% CI = 19.5% to 22.2%). Screened individuals had higher lung cancer death risk (risk ratio [RR] = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.26 to 1.46) and life-years gained (RR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.12 to 1.25) than unscreened individuals. Currently, screening averts 19 306 lung cancer deaths and gains 237 564 life-years; screening everyone eligible would additionally avert 56 956 lung cancer deaths and gain 751 850 life-years. Two-thirds of USPSTF lung-eligible women were up to date with breast cancer screening, but only 17.3% attended lung screening in the past year.

Conclusions

Eligible screening attendees had higher lung cancer death risk and benefit from screening. Higher rates of screening could substantially increase the number of lung cancer deaths prevented.
Racial discrimination and health-care system trust among American adults with and without cancer
Authors: Brown Jordyn A , Taffe Brianna D , Richmond Jennifer A , Roberson Mya L
Published: June 2024

Background

Racial and ethnic minoritized groups report disproportionately lower trust in the health-care system. Lower health-care system trust is potentially related to increased exposure to racial discrimination in medical settings, but this association is not fully understood. We examined the association between racial discrimination in medical care and trust in the health-care system among people with and without a personal cancer history.

Methods

We examined racial discrimination and trust in a nationally representative American adult sample from the Health Information National Trends Survey 6. Racial discrimination was defined as any unfair treatment in health care on the basis of race or ethnicity. Trust in the health-care system (eg, hospitals and pharmacies) was grouped into low, moderate, and high trust. Multinomial logistic regression models were used to compare low and moderate trust relative to high trust in the health-care system and estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

A total of 5813 respondents (15% with a personal cancer history) were included; 92% (n = 5355) reported no prior racial discrimination experience during medical treatment. Prior experiences of racial discrimination were positively associated with low (OR = 6.12, 95% CI = 4.22 to 8.86) and moderate (OR = 2.70, 95% CI = 1.96 to 3.72) trust in the health-care system relative to high trust. Similar associations were observed when stratifying by personal cancer history.

Conclusion

Respondents who reported racial discrimination during medical encounters had lower trust in the health-care system, especially respondents with a personal cancer history. Our findings highlight the need to address racial discrimination experiences during medical care to build patient trust and promote health-care access.
National Cancer Institute-funded grants focused on synchronous telehealth cancer care delivery: a portfolio analysis
Authors: Jensen Roxanne E , Brick Rachelle , Medel Joshua , Tuovinen Priyanga , Jacobsen Paul B , Hardesty Rebecca , Vanderpool Robin C
Published: June 2024

Background

Telehealth use increased during the COVID-19 pandemic and remains a complementary source of cancer care delivery. Understanding research funding trends in cancer-related telehealth can highlight developments in this area of science and identify future opportunities.

Methods

Applications funded by the US National Cancer Institute (NCI) between fiscal years 2016 and 2022 and focused on synchronous patient-provider telehealth were analyzed for grant characteristics (eg, funding mechanism), cancer focus (eg, cancer type), and study features (eg, type of telehealth service). Of 106 grants identified initially, 60 were retained for coding after applying exclusion criteria.

Results

Almost three-quarters (73%) of telehealth grants were funded during fiscal years 2020-2022. Approximately 67% were funded through R01 or R37 mechanism and implemented as randomized controlled trials (63%). Overall, telehealth grants commonly focused on treatment (30%) and survivorship (43%); breast cancer (12%), hematologic malignancies (10%), and multiple cancer sites (27%); and health disparity populations (ie, minorities, rural residents) (73%). Both audio and video telehealth were common (65%), as well as accompanying mHealth apps (20%). Telehealth services centered on psychosocial care, self-management, and supportive care (88%); interventions were commonly delivered by mental health professionals (30%).

Conclusion

NCI has observed an increase in funded synchronous patient-provider telehealth grants. Trends indicate an evolution of awards that have expanded across the cancer control continuum, applied rigorous study designs, incorporated additional digital technologies, and focused on populations recognized for disparate cancer outcomes. As telehealth is integrated into routine cancer care delivery, additional research evidence will be needed to inform clinical practice.
University of Pennsylvania Telehealth Research Center of Excellence
Authors: Wainwright Jocelyn V , Aggarwal Charu , Beucker Sarah , Dougherty David W , Gabriel Peter E , Jacobs Linda A , Kalman Jillian , Linn Kristin A , Martella Anthony O , Mehta Shivan J , Rhodes Corinne M , Roy Megan , Schapira Marilyn M , Shulman Lawrence N , Steltz Jennifer , Stephens Shields Alisa J , Tan Andy S L , Thompson Jeffrey C , Toneff Hannah , Wender Richard C , Zeb Sana , Rendle Katharine A , Vachani Anil , Bekelman Justin E ,   Penn TRACE, Aggarwal Charu , Asch David A , Bekelman Justin E , Beucker Sarah , Bradbury Angela , Cook Tessa , Dougherty David W , Gabriel Peter E , Glanz Karen , Guerra Carmen , Hubbard Rebecca , Huffenberger Ann , Jacobs Linda A , Johnson Kevin B , Kalman Jillian , Kumar Pallavi , Leone Frank , Linn Kristin A , Long Judith A , Martella Anthony O , McGinley Susan , Mehta Shivan J , O’Malley Christina J , Press Matthew J , Rendle Katharine A , Rhodes Corinne M , Ritzwoller Debra P , Roy Megan , Schapira Marilyn M , Schnoll Robert , Shulman Lawrence N , Steltz Jennifer , Shields Alisa J Stephens , Takvorian Samuel , Tan Andy S L , Teel Joseph , Thompson Jeffrey C , Toneff Hannah , Vachani Anil , Wainwright Jocelyn V , Wender Richard C , Zeb Sana
Published: June 2024

Drawing from insights from communication science and behavioral economics, the University of Pennsylvania Telehealth Research Center of Excellence (Penn TRACE) is designing and testing telehealth strategies with the potential to transform access to care, care quality, outcomes, health equity, and health-care efficiency across the cancer care continuum, with an emphasis on understanding mechanisms of action. Penn TRACE uses lung cancer care as an exemplar model for telehealth across the care continuum, from screening to treatment to survivorship. We bring together a diverse and interdisciplinary team of international experts and incorporate rapid-cycle approaches and mixed methods evaluation in all center projects. Our initiatives include a pragmatic sequential multiple assignment randomized trial to compare the effectiveness of telehealth strategies to increase shared decision-making for lung cancer screening and 2 pilot projects to test the effectiveness of telehealth to improve cancer care, identify multilevel mechanisms of action, and lay the foundation for future pragmatic trials. Penn TRACE aims to produce new fundamental knowledge and advance telehealth science in cancer care at Penn and nationally.
Telehealth Research and Innovation for Veterans with Cancer: the THRIVE Center
Authors: Zullig Leah L , Makarov Danil , Becker Daniel , Dardashti Navid , Guzman Ivonne , Kelley Michael J , Melnic Irina , Juarez Padilla Janeth , Rojas Sidney , Thomas Jerry , Tumminello Christa , Sherman Scott E
Published: June 2024

Background

In recent years the US health-care system has witnessed a substantial increase in telehealth use. Telehealth enhances health-care access and quality and may reduce costs. However, there is a concern that the shift from in-person to telehealth care delivery may differentially improve cancer care access and quality in certain clinical settings and for specific patient populations while potentially exacerbating disparities in care for others. Our National Cancer Institute–funded center, called Telehealth Research and Innovation for Veterans with Cancer (THRIVE), is focused on health equity for telehealth-delivered cancer care. We seek to understand how social determinants of telehealth—particularly race and ethnicity, poverty, and rurality—affect the use of telehealth.

Methods

THRIVE draws from the Health Disparities Research Framework and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. THRIVE consists of multiple cores that work synergistically to assess and understand health equity for telehealth-delivered cancer care. These include the Administrative Core, Research and Methods Core, Clinical Practice Network, and Pragmatic Trial.

Results

As of October 2023, we identified and trained 5 THRIVE scholars, who are junior faculty beginning a research career. We have reviewed 20 potential pilot studies, funding 6. Additionally, in communication with our funders and advisory boards, we have adjusted our study design and analytic approach, ensuring feasibility while addressing our operational partners’ needs.

Conclusions

THRIVE has several key strengths. First, the Veterans Health Administration’s health-care system is large and diverse regarding health-care setting type and patient population. Second, we have access to longitudinal data, predating the COVID-19 pandemic, about telehealth use. Finally, equitable access to high-quality care for all veterans is a major tenet of the Veterans Health Administration health-care mission. As a result of these advantages, THRIVE can focus on isolating and evaluating the impact of social determinants of telehealth on equity in cancer care.
Scalable Telehealth Cancer Care: integrated healthy lifestyle program to live well after cancer treatment
Authors: Spring Bonnie , Garcia Sofia F , Daly Elyse , Jacobs Maia , Jayeoba Monisola , Jordan Neil , Kircher Sheetal , Kocherginsky Masha , Mazzetta Rana , Pollack Teresa , Scanlan Laura , Scherr Courtney , Hitsman Brian , Phillips Siobhan M
Published: June 2024

Northwestern University’s Center for Scalable Telehealth Cancer Care (STELLAR) is 1 of 4 Cancer Moonshot Telehealth Research Centers of Excellence programs funded by the National Cancer Institute to establish an evidence base for telehealth in cancer care. STELLAR is grounded in the Institute of Medicine’s vision that quality cancer care includes not only disease treatment but also promotion of long-term health and quality of life (QOL). Cigarette smoking, insufficient physical activity, and overweight and obesity often co-occur and are associated with poorer treatment response, heightened recurrence risk, decreased longevity, diminished QOL, and increased treatment cost for many cancers. These risk behaviors are prevalent in cancer survivors, but their treatment is not routinely integrated into oncology care. STELLAR aims to foster patients’ long-term health and QOL by designing, implementing, and sustaining a novel telehealth treatment program for multiple risk behaviors to be integrated into standard cancer care. Telehealth delivery is evidence-based for health behavior change treatment and is well suited to overcome access and workflow barriers that can otherwise impede treatment receipt. This paper describes STELLAR’s 2-arm randomized parallel group pragmatic clinical trial comparing telehealth-delivered, coach-facilitated multiple risk behavior treatment vs self-guided usual care for the outcomes of reach, effectiveness, and cost among 3000 cancer survivors who have completed curative intent treatment. This paper also discusses several challenges encountered by the STELLAR investigative team and the adaptations developed to move the research forward.
A Framework for Integrating Telehealth Equitably across the cancer care continuum
Authors: Rendle Katharine A , Tan Andy S L , Spring Bonnie , Bange Erin M , Lipitz-Snyderman Allison , Morris Michael J , Makarov Danil V , Daly Robert , Garcia Sofia F , Hitsman Brian , Ogedegbe Olugbenga , Phillips Siobhan , Sherman Scott E , Stetson Peter D , Vachani Anil , Wainwright Jocelyn V , Zullig Leah L , Bekelman Justin E
Published: June 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic placed a spotlight on the potential to dramatically increase the use of telehealth across the cancer care continuum, but whether and how telehealth can be implemented in practice in ways that reduce, rather than exacerbate, inequities are largely unknown. To help fill this critical gap in research and practice, we developed the Framework for Integrating Telehealth Equitably (FITE), a process and evaluation model designed to help guide equitable integration of telehealth into practice. In this manuscript, we present FITE and showcase how investigators across the National Cancer Institute’s Telehealth Research Centers of Excellence are applying the framework in different ways to advance digital and health equity. By highlighting multilevel determinants of digital equity that span further than access alone, FITE highlights the complex and differential ways structural determinants restrict or enable digital equity at the individual and community level. As such, achieving digital equity will require strategies designed to not only support individual behavior but also change the broader context to ensure all patients and communities have the choice, opportunity, and resources to use telehealth across the cancer care continuum.
Unusual presentation of metastatic melanoma
Authors: La Anthony , Asarian Armand , Xiao Philip
Published: June 2024

Urinary bladder with concurrent colonic melanoma is an exceptionally uncommon occurrence, posing a diagnostic challenge for clinicians. While rare, it warrants consideration as a potential differential diagnosis, particularly in patients without a history of melanoma who present with persistent hematuria due to its aggressive nature. We present a case of a 55-year-old female with malignant melanoma involving the colon and urinary bladder presenting with hematuria. Given the scarcity of cases and variability in clinical management approaches, there is a pressing need for research efforts to establish standardized protocols and conduct trials to guide clinical practice in this rare entity.
Spindle cell sarcoma of the chest wall: a pediatric case report
Authors: Akbari Masoud , Alter Avram , Kuenzler Keith A
Published: June 2024

Chest wall sarcomas are reported to be infrequent among thoracic tumors. The spindle cell subtype makes up a small percentage of this group. These tumors can be asymptomatic or cause symptoms of chest pain and shortness of breath due to the mass effect, which can lead to a delay in diagnosis. A 10-year-old female with a persistent cough, shortness of breath on exertion, and left-sided chest pain presented to the ED. Imaging indicated a chest wall mass filling the left hemithorax with a rightward mediastinal shift. During surgical resection, two tumors were removed, with resection of parts of the latissimus dorsi and serratus anterior. A diagnosis of MGA:NUTM1 spindle cell sarcoma was made pathologically. The patient was successfully treated with surgery and adjuvant chemoradiotherapy. We hope to add to our academic knowledge by presenting the presentation and treatment of SCS in a pediatric patient.
Cold hardiness-informed budbreak reveals role of freezing temperatures and daily fluctuation in a chill accumulation model
Authors: North Michael G , Workmaster Beth Ann , Atucha Amaya , Kovaleski Al P
Published: June 2024

Fundamental questions in bud dormancy remain, including what temperatures fulfill dormancy requirements (i.e. chill accumulation). Recent studies demonstrate freezing temperatures promote chill accumulation and cold hardiness influences time to budbreak—the phenotype used for dormancy evaluations. Here we evaluated bud cold hardiness and budbreak responses of grapevines (Vitis hybrids) throughout chill accumulation under three treatments: constant (5 °C), fluctuating (−3.5 to 6.5 °C daily), and field conditions (Madison, WI, USA). Chill treatments experiencing lower temperatures promoted greater gains in cold hardiness (field>fluctuating>constant). All treatments decreased observed time to budbreak with increased chill accumulation. However, perceived treatment effectiveness changed when time to budbreak was adjusted to remove cold acclimation effects. Among three classic chill models (North Carolina, Utah, and Dynamic), none was able to correctly describe adjusted time to budbreak responses to chill accumulation. Thus, a new model is proposed that expands the range of chill accumulation temperatures to include freezing temperatures and enhances chill accumulation under fluctuating temperature conditions. Most importantly, our analysis demonstrates that adjustments for uneven acclimation change the perceived effectiveness of chill treatments. Therefore, future work in bud dormancy would benefit from simultaneously evaluating cold hardiness.
Article 5(a) of the 1970 UNESCO Convention: National Laws and Regulations
Authors: Marie Cornu
Published: June 2024

This chapter tackles Article 5(a) of the 1970 UNESCO Convention, which is primarily concerned with national laws and regulations. The provision imposes on States Parties an obligation to create services dedicated to the protection of cultural heritage. Specifically, Article 5(a) establishes that States are responsible for the implementation of the 1970 Convention and that must put in place a legal framework for this purpose. The aforementioned services range between cultural or non-cultural administration and controlling the import and export of cultural property. The chapter looks into the efforts made in the adoption of measures met with strong opposition, such as the obligation of diligence introduced by UNIDROIT or import controls.
Article 7(a) of the 1970 UNESCO Convention: Import Controls of Illegally Exported Cultural Property
Authors: Tullio Scovazzi
Published: June 2024

This chapter details how Article 7(a) of the 1970 UNESCO Convention revolves around import control of illegally exported cultural property. It mentions that the provision is emblematic of the lack of consistency between the general objectives of the 1970 Convention. Article 7(a) narrows the scope of the application and the nature of the measures of the provision and its correlating obligations. Moreover, the provision provides for two distinct obligations incumbent on States Parties, which involve measures within territories of State Parties and informing other States Parties if a given situation occurs. The chapter mentions how Article 7 showcases to what extent the 1970 Convention was the product of U.S. leadership in persuading a majority of UNESCO to adopt a moderate and compromise position
Article 8 of the 1970 UNESCO Convention: Penalties or Administrative Sanctions
Authors: Stefano Manacorda , Arianna Visconti
Published: June 2024

This chapter focuses on Article 8 of the 1970 UNESCO Convention. Under Article 8, State Parties can impose penalties and administrative sanctions on any person responsible for infringing the Convention's prohibitions. The norm primarily aims to counter unlawful actions that can affect cultural heritage and ensure that cultural goods can only circulate legitimately. The chapter mentions how Article 8 is the only norm of the Convention that explicitly refers to sanctions to be introduced at the domestic level, while also detailing its drafting style compared to other provisions of recent international treaties. It considers the modernising interpretation of the provisions as per UNESCO and UNODC.
Article 22 of the 1970 UNESCO Convention: Territorial Application
Authors: Lucas Lixinski
Published: June 2024

This chapter discusses the extent of Article 22 of the 1970 UNESCO Convention. It details the application of the treaty to territories ruled by a State Party but to which the application includes territories of colonial powers and constituent units within federal states. Moreover, article 22 is regarded as the colonial clause within the standards of treaty-making language, but it does not exactly sit well with the objectives of the 1970 Convention. The provision offers possibilities concerning federal systems and micro-states despite the hurdle of affirmative declarations. The chapter cites Article 22's significance in the new developments among UNESCO culture and heritage treaties.
Intergovernmental Committee for Promoting the Return of Cultural Property to Its Countries of Origin or Its Restitution in Case of Illicit Appropriation (ICPRCP)
Authors: Andrzej Jakubowski
Published: June 2024

This chapter examines the role and mandate of the Intergovernmental Committee for Promoting the Return of Cultural Property to Its Countries of Origin or Its Restitution in Case of Illicit Appropriation (ICPRCP). It explains how the role of the intergovernmental body began to change gradually with the establishment of the 1970 Convention statutory organs. The ICPRCP became the de facto monitoring body for the 1970 UNESCO Convention, so its role, mandate, and practice expanded towards new horizons of cultural heritage governance. The chapter then explores the ICPRCP’s contribution to a more ethical and transparent international system for the protection of cultural property from threats relating to illicit trade and movement. It notes that ICPRCP's future work involves the Sustainable Development Goals (‘SDGs’) and global priorities.
Article 1 of the 1995 UNIDROIT Convention: Claims of An International Character
Authors: Elina Moustaira
Published: June 2024

This chapter expounds on Article 1 of the 1995 UNIDROIT Convention. It covers the drafting history of Article 1, as well as the scope of the application and definition of this provision. It also mentions the provision's aim of drafting a uniform law establishing common substantive rules to cover both domestic and international claims.
Article 2 of the 1995 UNIDROIT Convention: Definition of ‘Cultural Objects’
Authors: Janet Blake
Published: June 2024

This chapter focuses on Article 2 of the 1995 UNIDROIT Convention . It explains how crafting the definition of cultural objects was subjected to lengthy and detailed discussions. The final text, with a general definition that refers to an Annex containing a detailed list of categories, represents a compromise between two different positions.
The 1970 UNESCO and the 1995 UNIDROIT Conventions and the 2003 UNESCO Intangible Heritage Convention
Authors: Federico Lenzerini
Published: June 2024

This chapter examines the relationship between the 1970 UNESCO and the 1995 UNIDROIT Conventions and the 2003 UNESCO Intangible Heritage Convention. It starts with the interconnectedness between different categories of cultural heritage. The problems from the relationship of Conventions are partially overcome through a systemic interpretation finalized at combining the different interests incorporated in the relevant treaties. The chapter then elaborates on the legal regime established by the 2003 UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (CSICH), while also considering its shortcoming of having a scarce role attributed to the creators and bearers of the intangible cultural heritage in protection. Thus, the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage gained a prominent position in the context of international cultural heritage law.
Statement of Purpose
Authors: Calderoni Francesco
Published: June 2024

This chapter highlights Article 1, which covers the purpose of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) in an effort to promote cooperation to prevent and combat transnational organized crime more effectively. While the UNTOC lacks a preamble that can support devising the correct interpretation of the text, the General Assembly Resolution adopted the Convention containing statements amenable to a preamble. The chapter note show Article 1 introduces the subsequent articles of UNTOC. Meanwhile, the inspiration for Article 1 comes from the Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances and the 1988 Drug Trafficking Convention. The article explains how the provision is quite self-explanatory and does not leave much room for interpretation.
Measures to Combat Money-Laundering
Authors: Calderoni Francesco
Published: June 2024

This chapter explores several measures to prevent money laundering indicated in Article 7 of United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC). The Article’s main obligations is the establishment of a comprehensive regulatory and supervisory regime for financial institutions and other bodies. Additionally, Article 7 comprises both obligations and optional measures for State Parties. Most of the measures were inspired by the anti-money laundering regime developed by several international institutions and bodies and most often through soft-law instruments such as the Financial Action Task Force (FAFT) Recommendations. Article 7’s wording and scope allow State Parties substantial flexibility in the implementation of the measures.
Criminalization of Corruption
Authors: Calderoni Francesco
Published: June 2024

This chapter considers Article 8, which looks into the criminalization of active and passive bribery that allows States Parties to criminalize additional corrupt practices. The aforementioned corrupt practices include the corruption of foreign public officials and officials of international organizations. Corruption was included in the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) due to an increasing international focus on corruption driven by the adoption of other international agreements and United Nations activities. The provision is largely inspired by previous international agreements on corruption and its main elements are consistent with pre-existing provisions. The inspiration for Article 8 comes from several pre-existing international or continental European treaties on corruption that criminalize active and passive bribery and define public officials.
Measures against Corruption
Authors: Calderoni Francesco
Published: June 2024

This chapter explains how Article 9 covers a variety of measures complementing the criminalization provisions of Article 8. It clarifies that the provision has no specific origin in previous international treaties and the early drafts of the Convention did not include specific provisions on corruption. However, the provision lacks any binding requirement, which allows States Parties to determine which measures may achieve the goals. The increasing focus of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) on corruption prompted suggestions to split criminalization and preventive measures into separate provisions. Article 9 ensures effective action by its authorities in the prevention, detection and punishment of the corruption of public officials.
Disposal of Confiscated Proceeds of Crime or Property
Authors: Mancuso Enrico Maria
Published: June 2024

This chapter examines the final stage of the confiscation process indicated in Article 14 of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC). The final stage consists of the disposal of seized property and assets and the potential repatriation of these assets to the requesting State. The chapter details the history of negotiations behind Article 14, referencing the 1988 Drug Trafficking Convention and the Ad Hoc Committee. Article 14 follows the disposal of assets confiscated according to Articles 12–13 of UNTOC and is governed by domestic law and administrative procedures of the State in which property is confiscated. The chapter also considers the special consideration of asset sharing.
Extradition
Authors: Schloenhardt Andreas
Published: June 2024

This chapter discusses the concept of extradition as indicated in Article 16 of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC). Extradition refers to a formal process to return or deliver fugitives from the jurisdiction where they are present to the jurisdiction with concerning criminal activities. Moreover, extradition is usually based on a treaty and in the absence of relevant treaty provisions there is no obligation under international law to extradite to another State. Article 16 only provides a broad legal framework, rather than spelling out all the requirements and conditions of extradition. The chapter explains the approaches to using UNTOC as the legal basis for extradition.
Measures to Enhance Cooperation with Law Enforcement Authorities
Authors: Taylor Matthew R
Published: June 2024

This chapter explores Article 26 of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC). It cites the role that informants can play in facilitating the investigation and prosecution of organized crime and proposes measures designed to encourage cooperation. Since informants face significant risks in providing information to law enforcement, many countries offer an exchange for information, which varies from monetary to anonymity. Article 26 recognizes the value of informants and contemplates various measures subject to domestic laws in an effort to encourage the receipt of evidence by informants. The chapter mentions the use of information as the best means for collecting useful evidence in the fight against organized crime.
Collection, Exchange and Analysis of Information on the Nature of Organized Crime
Authors: Taylor Matthew R
Published: June 2024

This chapter looks into Article 28 of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC). It explains the critical importance of having accurate, relevant, comprehensive, and contemporary data on organized crime. Moreover, Article 28 supplements Protocols that recognize and specifically provide a role for civil society as part of broader efforts to combat transnational organized crime. Thus, the provision promotes regional and international cooperation on research and data collection that is consistent with the Convention's overall objectives. The chapter also notes the significance of the evaluation and assessment of anti-crime policies in justifying continued support for such policies either at the domestic level or the international level.
Prevention
Authors: Schloenhardt Andreas , Lelliott Joseph
Published: June 2024

This chapter tackles the preventive measures indicated in Article 31 of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC). The deterrent function of criminal justice responses is now widely recognized that effective crime prevention goes far beyond this and requires holistic responses and cooperation. Article 31 particularly asks States parties to endeavour in developing and evaluating projects and best practices to prevent transnational organized crime. The chapter mentions Article 31 has been subject to little technical or scholarly analysis due to its framing with non-mandatory language. It also notes the provision’s sufficient flexibility to account for developments in prevention goals and strategies.
Conference of the Parties
Authors: Schloenhardt Andreas
Published: June 2024

This chapter explains the notion of the Conference of the Parties (CoP) as per Article 32 of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC). It notes the establishment of CoP as the institutional body to facilitate and review the implementation of UNTOC by States Parties. The COP aims to improve the capacity of States Parties to combat transnational organized crime and to promote and review the implementation of UNTOC. Moreover, Article 32 provides the basis for the UNTOC Review Mechanism that was launched in 2020. The chapter explains how the CoP must agree upon a mechanism for achieving objectives in line with the Convention.
Implementation of the Convention
Authors: Schloenhardt Andreas
Published: June 2024

This chapter expounds on Article 34 of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC). The provision provides States Parties with some guidance and great flexibility for the implementation of the Convention obligations. States Parties are required to ensure the accurate implementation of obligations through domestic laws and administrative measures. The chapter mentions how Article 34(2) secures that domestic offences are not limited to instances involving organized criminal groups and transnational cases. It notes how the provision also ensures the prevention of adopting new laws and administrative measures that are practically inoperative because they failed to comply with constitutional or fundamental legal principles.
Settlement of Disputes
Authors: Schloenhardt Andreas
Published: June 2024

This chapter looks into Article 35 of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC). It cites how the provision provides several avenues for the settlement of disputes between States Parties over the interpretation or application of UNTOC. Negotiation takes the first step in seeking a solution when disputes arise before being followed by arbitration, and then a referral to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The chapter notes how multilateral treaties commonly contain detailed dispute resolution provisions. Thus, Article 35 follows the provision of the Charter of the United Nations by outlining the various methods of the settlement of disputes.
Relation with Protocols
Authors: Schloenhardt Andreas
Published: June 2024

This chapter explains the relationship between the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) and protocols. It focuses on Article 37, wherein the separation of specific crimes influenced the initial design and drafting of the Convention. States are mandated to become a Party to the Convention before they can become a Party to a Protocol. Meanwhile, Protocols must be interpreted under the understanding of the Convention that contains general provisions concerning all forms of organized crime. The chapter notes how the UNTOC is supplemented by additional Protocols, citing that Protocols need separate ratification and accession, so they should be interpreted in line with the Convention.
Relation with the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime
Authors: Calderoni Francesco
Published: June 2024

This chapter examines Article 1 of the Trafficking in Persons Protocol. The text of Article 1(1) clarifies the relation between the Protocol and the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime. Indeed, a State must be a Party to the Convention to become a Party to any Protocol. Meanwhile, the main aim of paragraph 2 is to introduce a minimum of flexibility in the interpretation of the Convention provisions when they are applied to the Protocol. Paragraph 3 complements paragraph 2 by offering a specific provision for the criminalization of Trafficking in Persons. It can be interpreted so that any Articles referring to ‘offences covered by this Convention’ could be applied to the offences established in accordance with the Protocols.
Criminalization
Authors: Lelliott Joseph
Published: June 2024

This chapter addresses Article 5 of the Trafficking in Persons Protocol. The obligation to criminalize is necessary to give effect to the purposes of the Protocol and prevent, combat, and punish trafficking. Article 5 requires States Parties to criminalize trafficking as defined in Article 3(a) of the Protocol. In addition to criminalizing principal offenders and the completed offence, States Parties are further obliged to extend criminalization to attempts to traffic, as well as to persons who knowingly participate as accomplices in, or organize or direct, trafficking ventures. Criminalization of trafficking based on a widely agreed definition of the crime is key to cooperation between States, such as where extradition is dependent on the principle of dual criminality. The chapter then looks at the principle of ‘non-punishment’ for victims who were coerced or compelled to participate in trafficking conduct.