bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
omes of ACL Reconstruction in Adolescent Female Athletes
Authors: Darmafall Kristyn , Tompkins Marc , Agel Julie , Reams Megan , Nelson Bradley J.
Published: July 2017

Objectives:

Background: There is limited information in the literature specifically detailing the outcomes of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) in adolescent female athletes. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to (1) describe the 2-year clinical outcomes in skeletally mature adolescent female athletes undergoing ACLR and (2) determine if graft selection, concomitant injury, sport, body mass index, etc. affect outcomes.

Methods:

Methods: 200 consecutive skeletally mature adolescent females (207 knees) underwent primary isolated ACLR between June 2011 and January 2014 at a single orthopaedic outpatient clinic, Patients were asked to return for a physical exam and completion of subjective questionnaires.

Results:

Results: Clinical information was available on 114/207 knees with physical examination performed on 86 knees. Ninety-nine of 114 (86.8%) patients were able to return to play. Thirteen (11.4%) knees sustained a graft retear and eleven (9.6%) patients tore their contralateral ACL during the study period. KOOS data demonstrated a mean of 87.6 (14.1) for sports/rec and a mean of 82.1 (14.7) for quality of life subscales. All knees demonstrated a Lachman’s exam with less than 5mm side to side difference. 5 knees had rotatory instability with a pivot shift of greater than 2+. Twenty-one (21.2% ) knees underwent a subsequent nonrevision surgery on their reconstructed knee.

Conclusion:

Conclusions: This population of skeletally mature adolescent female athletes reported a high rate of return to play (86.8%) with ACL graft retear rate (11.4% ) and contralateral ACL tear (9.6%) consistent with other reports on male athletes undergoing ACL reconstruction. The variables of patient’s BMI, mechanism of injury, graft type, concomitant meniscal pathology at time of index procedure or undergoing a subsequent second surgery on the ipsilateral knee did not impact patient reported outcomes or physical exam findings at two years. Overall patient reported outcomes were high even in the setting of the 11.4% retear and 9.6% contralateral tear rates.
Assessing Trends in the Epidemiology of Concussions Among High School Athletes
Authors: Schallmo Michael S. , Weiner Joseph Arnold , Hsu Wellington
Published: July 2017

Objectives:

Approximately 300,000 youth athletes suffer a mild form of traumatic brain injury (TBI) known as a concussion annually while participating in organized athletics. Using data from the most recent 10-year period available, this study aimed to track national trends in high school sports-related concussion incidences over time, identify whether a particular sport predisposes athletes to a higher incidence of concussions, and evaluate the association between concussion occurrences and the enactment of TBI legislation that began in 2009.

Methods:

Injury data for academic years 2005-2006 through 2014-2015 was collected from annual reports generated by the High School Reporting Information Online sports injury surveillance system, which prospectively captures injury data directly from athletic trainers at participating U.S. high schools. Relative proportions of total estimated concussions to total estimated injuries were compared using an injury proportion ratio (IPR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI). Concussion rate was defined as the number of concussions per 10,000 athlete-exposures (AEs, one athlete participating in one practice or competition), and rates were compared using a rate ratio (RR) and 95% CI.

Results:

The overall number of concussions increased 2.2-fold ( p<0.0001) between 2005-2006 and 2014-2015, and significant increases were also found in the overall concussion rate (RR=2.30, 95% CI [2.04-2.59]; p<0.0001) and the overall proportion of concussions (IPR=2.68, 95% CI [2.66-2.70]; p<0.0001). Players injured during the 2014-2015 school year were more likely to have sustained a concussion if they played girls soccer than if they played girls volleyball (IPR=1.32, 95% [1.30-1.35]; p<0.0001), girls basketball (IPR=1.35, 95% CI [1.33-1.37]; p<0.0001), or boys football (IPR=1.40, 95% CI [1.39-1.41]; p<0.0001) (Table 1).

Conclusion:

The overall rate and proportion of concussions increased significantly post-TBI law enactment, suggesting an association between the passage of TBI laws and concussion incidences. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report that concussions now account for a higher proportion of injuries in girls soccer than boys football. Currently, no state TBI laws address the sport- or gender-specific differences identified by this study. Future studies should focus on examining specific risk factors, developing targeted measures to reduce the number of preventable concussions, and developing diagnostic and treatment algorithms to protect young athletes and improve outcomes. [Table: see text]
Impact of Bony Stress Injuries on Professional Basketball Performance
Authors: Khan Moin , Madden Kim , Rogowski Joseph P. , Stotts Jeff , Burrus Matthew Tyrrell , Samani Marisa , Sikka Robby Singh , Bedi Asheesh
Published: July 2017

Objectives:

Players in the National Basketball Association (NBA) subject their lower extremities to significant repetitive loading during the season as well as during off-season training. Little is known about the incidence and impact of lower extremity bony stress injuries in these athletes.

Methods:

Using the player injury database maintained by the NBA Players’ Association, all bony stress injuries from 1992 to May 2016 were identified. Those not involving the lower extremity were excluded from the study. Stress fractures and stress reactions were grouped together. Number of games missed due to the injury as well as player statistics including points per game (ppg), assists per game (apg), steals per game (spg), and blocks per game (bpg) were collected from two years prior to the injury to two years after the injury.

Results:

76 lower extremity bony stress injuries were identified involving 75 different NBA players with an average player age of 25.4 ± 4.1 years. 55.3% (42/76) involved the foot, 21.1% (16/76) involved the ankle or fibula, 17.1% (13/76) involved the tibia, and 6.6% (5/76) involved either the knee or patella. The majority of injuries occurred in season 82.9% (63/76) with half of the injuries occurring within the first 6 weeks of the season. 38.2% (29/76) of these injuries were managed surgically. An average of 25.1 ± 21.3 games were missed. 19.7% (15/76) of patients who sustained a stress fracture also had a subsequent injury. 29.2% (21/76) of players were not able to return to professional basketball after the season in which the injury was sustained; however, those who were able to return to the same level of play did not see a significant change in performance as measured by ppg, apg, spg, or bpg when comparing the season prior to the injury and either one or two years after the injury. Stress injuries to the foot carried the worst prognosis, 57.1% (12/21) of those unable to return to professional basketball sustained such an injury.

Conclusion:

While not extremely common in NBA players, lower extremity bony stress injuries may be career-ending. However, if they are able to return to the NBA following this injury, then their level of play should return to their pre-injury level.
The Epidemiology of Injuries Identified at the National Football League Scouting Combine and their Impact on Professional Sport Performance: 2203 athletes, 2009-2015
Authors: Price Mark D. , Rossy William H. , Sanchez George , McHale Kevin Jude , Logan Catherine , Provencher Matthew T.
Published: July 2017

Objectives:

Normal At the annual National Football League (NFL) Scouting Combine, the medical staff of each NFL franchise performs a comprehensive medical evaluation of all athletes potentially entering the NFL. Currently, little is known regarding the overall epidemiology of injuries identified at the Combine and their impact on NFL performance. The purpose of this study is to determine the epidemiology of injuries identified at the Combine and their impact on future NFL performance.

Methods:

All previous musculoskeletal injuries identified at the NFL combine (2009-2015) were retrospectively reviewed. Medical records and imaging reports were examined. Game statistics for the first two seasons of NFL play were obtained for all players from 2009 to 2013. Analysis of injury prevalence and overall impact on draft status and position-specific performance metrics of each injury was performed and compared versus a position-matched control group with no history of injury and surgery.

Results:

A total of 2,203 athletes over seven years were evaluated, including 1,490 (67.6%) drafted athletes and 1,040 (47.2%) who ultimately played at least two years in the NFL. The most common sites of injury were the ankle (1160, 52.7%), shoulder (1143, 51.9%), knee (1128, 51.2%), spine (785, 35.6%), and hand (739, 33.5%). Odds ratios (OR) demonstrated quarterbacks were most at risk of shoulder injury (OR 2.78, p=0.001) while running backs most commonly sustained ankle (OR 1.49, p=0.038) and shoulder injuries (OR 1.55, p=0.022). Ultimately, defensive players demonstrated a more negative impact than offensive players following injury with multiple performance metrics impacted for each defensive position analyzed whereas skilled offensive players (i.e. quarterbacks, running backs) demonstrated only one metric affected at each position.

Conclusion:

The most common sites of injury identified at the Combine were: (1) ankle, (2) shoulder, (3) knee, (4) spine, and (5) hand. Overall, performance in the NFL was significantly impacted by previous injuries. NFL performance was directly dependent on position played as well as anatomic location of injury. Defensive players were more negatively impacted than offensive players. Additional work is necessary to determine longer-term impact of these injuries on NFL career and post-NFL quality of life.
Hyaluronic Acid Injections of the Knee: Predictors of Successful Treatment
Authors: Bowman Eric N. , Hallock Justin , Azar Frederick M. , Throckmorton Thomas
Published: July 2017

Objectives:

Knee viscosupplementation yields variable results for osteoarthritis. Establishing patient and treatment factors that predict a favorable response to intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HA) treatment will better guide patient and treatment selection.

Methods:

This prospective study evaluated patients presenting with Kellgren-Lawrence grade 1-3 painful, primary knee osteoarthritis. The primary outcome measures were the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index/ Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (WOMAC/KOOS) and a standardized visual analog scale (VAS). Surveys were completed at the first and subsequent injections, then at three months post-treatment. Response to treatment was defined according to the Osteoarthritis Research Society International 2004 criteria.

Results:

We enrolled 135 patients, 102 remained for final analysis. Fifty-seven percent of patients had a positive response to treatment. Factors related to a positive response included those with grade 1 or 2 osteoarthritis (RR=2.17; 95%CI, 1.40-3.37), and those who showed improvement after the first injection (RR=2.22; 95%CI, 1.49-3.31). Seventy-eight percent of people who responded to the first injection had a positive response at follow-up. In multi-variable analysis, those aged 60 or older responded more positively with grade 2 osteoarthritis than those less than 60 years (RR=1.98; 95%CI, 1.18-3.21). Gender, race, BMI, smoking status, HA brand, and initial VAS and KOOS scores were not significant predictors of success in either independent or multivariable analysis.

Conclusion:

Patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis (grades 1 and 2), and those who responded positively to the first injection were two times more likely to respond positively to the injection series than those with grade 3 osteoarthritis, or those who did not respond initially. Patients aged 60 or older are twice as likely to respond than those less than 60 years for grade 2 osteoarthritis. Judicious patient selection and counseling may improve outcomes associated with intra-articular HA injections. [Table: see text]
The Efficacy of Intra-Articular Injections for Pain Control Following Hip Arthroscopy for Femoroacetabular impingement
Authors: Nho Shane Jay , Ukwuani Gift , Alter Jennifer , Friel Nicole A. , Basques Bryce A.
Published: July 2017

Objectives:

There is a rising trend among surgeons to administer intra-articular local anesthetic to help alleviate postoperative pain following hip arthroscopy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of intra-articular Marcaine for postoperative pain control after hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI).

Methods:

A prospective cohort study was performed. A total of one hundred consecutive patients who underwent hip arthroscopy by a single surgeon for FAI were included in this study. Patients were divided into two groups, with one group receiving intra-articular Marcaine (0.5% Marcaine plain) and the other group receiving intra-articular saline. The primary outcome measure was VAS pain measured at specific time intervals immediately upon arrival to the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), at 10, 20, and 30 minutes postoperatively, and at the 1 week follow up visit. Propensity scores were generated from baseline patient demographics and comorbidities, and patients were matched 1:1 based on propensity scores in order to reduce potential confounding.

Results:

A total of 100 patients were included. Of these, 38% were males and the average age was 29.7 + 12.1. 50 patients received intra-articular Marcaine while the other 50 did not. Before and after matching, there were no statistically significant difference in age, BMI, gender and preoperative VAS pain between the cohorts (Table 1). No differences in preoperative and postoperative VAS pain were found between the Marcaine and non-Marcaine cohorts within the immediate postoperative period. However, there was significant reduction in the absolute VAS at 1 week follow up in the Marcaine cohort compared to the non-Marcaine cohort. All patients were discharged home and did not experience any complications from the procedures.

Conclusion:

This study suggests that injecting intra articular Marcaine during hip arthroscopy for FAI may not be necessary as it may only provide minimal pain control. [Table: see text]
How Comprehensive and Efficient are Patient Reported Outcomes for Femoroacetabular Impingement?
Authors: Meadows Molly , Makhni Eric C. , Hamamoto Jason Taizo , Higgins John , Nho Shane Jay , Verma Nikhil N.
Published: July 2017

Objectives:

Increasing emphasis is placed on patient reported outcomes following common orthopedic procedures as a measure of quality and patient satisfaction. When considering patient reported outcome (PRO) utilization in patients with hip pain secondary to femoroacetabular impingement, several different PRO exist with varying levels of utilization and accuracy. Understanding which disease-specific PRO may be most efficiently administered in patients with femoroacetabular impingement, particularly those undergoing arthroscopic hip procedures, may assist in promoting increased patient and physician adoption of these useful scores. Using a novel assessment criterion, this study assessed all commonly used PRO in hip arthroscopy literature. We hypothesize that surveys with fewer numbers of questions may remain comparable (with regards to comprehensiveness) to longer surveys.

Methods:

Commonly utilized PRO in hip arthroscopy literature were analyzed with regards to number of survey components, comprehensiveness, and efficiency. Comprehensiveness (maximum score 13) was scored as the total number of pain (at rest/baseline, at night, during activities of daily living, during sport, during work, and mechanical symptoms) and functional (range of motion, ability to perform ADL, sport, work, ability to sit, and pre-injury level of function) metrics included, along with inclusion of quality of life/satisfaction metrics. Efficiency was calculated as comprehensiveness divided by number of survey components.

Results:

Thirteen different PRO were studied. Number of components ranged from 1 (UCLA Activity Score) - 40 (HOOS). Only the iHOT-33 included all six pain components, while only the iHOT-33 and HOS PRO contained all six functional components. Seven PRO included a quality of life/satisfaction component. The most comprehensive scores were the iHOT-33 (score = 13) and HAGOS (score = 10), and the least comprehensive score was the UCLA (score = 2). The most efficient PROs were the UCLA, MHHS, and EQ-5D scores. The least efficient scores were the HOS and SF-36 scores.

Conclusion:

Many commonly utilized PRO for FAI are lacking in comprehensiveness and efficiency. Continued critical assessment of PRO quality may help practitioners identify the most comprehensive and efficient PRO to incorporate into daily clinical practice. [Figure: see text]
The emergence of carbon disclosure: Exploring the role of governance entrepreneurs
Authors: Pattberg Philipp
Published: July 2017

An innovative approach to mitigating climate change beyond the international negotiations and hard-law approaches is governing by disclosure – the acquisition and dissemination of information to influence the behavior of particular actors. This paper analyzes the institutionalization of carbon disclosure as an organizational field, focusing in particular on the role of governance entrepreneurs in this process. The emergence of carbon disclosure is scrutinized along four distinct stages of transnational institutionalization: start-up; competition and growth; convergence and consolidation; integration into international public policy. For each phase, the role and relevance of governance entrepreneurs is analyzed. The article finds that during the first stage, entrepreneurs mainly acts as innovators and “out-of-the-box” thinkers; in stage 2, entrepreneurs can be characterized as flexible adaptors and opportunity seekers, while in stage 3, the role of meta-governors in dominant. Finally, the last stage, entrepreneurs acts as connectors and bridge-builder between the transnational sphere of carbon disclosure and the wider international governance arena.
Reaching Out to Paraprofessionals: Engaging Professional Development Aligned With Universal Design for Learning Framework in Rural Communities
Authors: Barrio Brenda L. , Hollingshead Aleksandra
Published: July 2017

The literature reveals that paraprofessionals are responsible for supporting students at risk of/with disabilities in a variety of academic and nonacademic tasks, yet they often lack appropriate training. Recent studies demonstrated the effectiveness of training for paraprofessionals to support students with disabilities in a meaningful way. In rural communities, such professional development and training opportunities are often unavailable despite the need. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of a Universal Design for Learning (UDL)–based ongoing professional development model for paraprofessionals in rural general and special education classrooms. Specifically, this study sought to first examine the professional development needs among paraprofessionals in rural communities in the inland Northwest United States and second to provide effective and ongoing professional development opportunities. Findings from this study suggest that ongoing professional development models for paraprofessionals working with students with disabilities, based on needs assessments and consistent with UDL framework, have positive effects. Discussions of implications for future research and practice are included.
Response to Radiotherapy After Breast-Conserving Surgery in Different Breast Cancer Subtypes in the Swedish Breast Cancer Group 91 Radiotherapy Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Sjöström Martin , Lundstedt Dan , Hartman Linda , Holmberg Erik , Killander Fredrika , Kovács Anikó , Malmström Per , Niméus Emma , Werner Rönnerman Elisabeth , Fernö Mårten , Karlsson Per
Published: July 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) after breast conservation surgery in different breast cancer subtypes in a large, randomized clinical trial with long-term follow-up.

Patients and Methods

Tumor tissue was collected from 1,003 patients with node-negative, stage I and II breast cancer who were randomly assigned in the Swedish Breast Cancer Group 91 Radiotherapy trial between 1991 and 1997 to breast conservation surgery with or without RT. Systemic adjuvant treatment was sparsely used (8%). Subtyping was performed with immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization on tissue microarrays for 958 tumors.

Results

RT reduced the cumulative incidence of ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR) as a first event within 10 years for luminal A–like tumors (19% v 9%; P = .001), luminal B–like tumors (24% v 8%; P < .001), and triple-negative tumors (21% v 6%; P = .08), but not for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–positive (luminal and nonluminal) tumors (15% v 19%; P = .6); however, evidence of an overall difference in RT effect between subtypes was weak ( P = .21). RT reduced the rate of death from breast cancer (BCD) for triple-negative tumors (hazard ratio, 0.35; P = .06), but not for other subtypes. Death from any cause was not improved by RT in any subtype. A hypothesized clinical low-risk group did not have a low risk of IBTR without RT, and RT reduced the rate of IBTR as a first event after 10 years (20% v 6%; P = .008), but had no effect on BCD or death from any cause.

Conclusion

Subtype was not predictive of response to RT, although, in our study, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–positive tumors seemed to be most radioresistant, whereas triple-negative tumors had the largest effect on BCD. The effect of RT in the presumed low-risk luminal A–like tumors was excellent.
Gender Transformations in Sinophone Taiwan
Authors: Chiang Howard
Published: July 2017

In the summer of 1953, the United Daily News (聯合報) in Taiwan announced the sex change surgery of the “first” Chinese transsexual, Xie Jianshun (謝尖順). Xie's story soon triggered an avalanche of media sensationalism in postwar Taiwan. This article adds greater historical depth to this episode of trans-culturation by examining other accounts of unusual bodily condition that the press brought to light in response to Xie's story. The author focuses on examples of “trans” formation that made explicit reference to Xie, especially during moments when Xie and her doctors intentionally withheld information from the public. Of particular interest are stories of gender transgression, defects of the reproductive system, uncommon problems related to pregnancy, the marriages of individuals with cross-gender identification, transsexual childbirth, human intersexuality, and sex metamorphosis itself, emanating from both domestic contexts and abroad. These stories provide crucial evidence for the growing frequency of sex-change-related discussions in Chinese-speaking communities in the immediate post–World War II era. Additionally, this essay has one broader aim: to offer a historiographical framework in which these stories of trans formation could be adequately appreciated. The second half of this article contextualizes them within the field of Sinophone postcolonial studies, demonstrating their broader historical import in terms of new analytic angles, new chronologies, and new theoretical vocabularies. The “Sinophone world” refers to Sinitic-language communities and cultures situated outside China or on the margins of China and Chineseness. By contesting the epistemic status of the West as the ultimate arbiter in queer historiography, the history of trans formations in Sinophone Taiwan offers an axial approach to provincializing China, Asia, and “the rest.”
Peacekeeping Force: Effects of Providing Tactical Equipment to Local Law Enforcement
Authors: Harris Matthew C. , Park Jinseong , Bruce Donald J. , Murray Matthew N.
Published: July 2017

We provide the first local level empirical analysis of the causal effects of providing military equipment to local police. Employing a novel combination of publicly available county-year panel data matched to hand-collected data on citizen complaints, we investigate the effects of acquiring tactical weapons, optics, and vehicles on citizen complaints, assaults on police officers, and offender deaths. For causal identification, we exploit exogenous variation in equipment availability and cost-shifting institutional aspects of the 1033 Program. Our results indicate that these items have generally positive effects: reduced citizen complaints, reduced assaults on officers, increased drug crime arrests, and no increases in offender deaths. (JEL H76, K42)
CONTRIBUTION OF LIGNITE IN THE GREEK ECONOMY
Authors: Karageorgiou D. E. , Metaxas A. , Dimitriou D. , Arapogiannis E. , Varvarousis G.
Published: July 2017

The objective of the present work is the assessment of the lignite contribution to the energy balance of Greece, according to the creation processes and the chronological classification. The lignite deposits known so far in Greece have been discovered and researched from the scientists of IGME in the course of evolution since 1948 (Greek Geological Survey), 1950 (Institute of Geology and Surface Research), 1973 (National Institute of Geological and Mineral Exploration) and finally in its current form in 1976 (Institute of Geology and Mineral Exploration) and are divided into (a) “productive”, (b) future “productive” and (c) no financial interest in power generation. A project, co-financed by the Greek Government and the European Union, is currently implemented, aiming at the recovery of the latter in non-electrical purposes with very good results in the first stage of research. According to the works carried out so far it has been observed that lignite formation started in Greece during Eocene and continued to date. From 1950 until today there is an upward trend in lignite reserves. Lignite generates electricity at a rate 63% today with higher rates 79.3%, during 1994. In Greece 41% of lignite deposits were created during Miocene. However, only 13% of these deposits that contribute to electricity generation derive from economically exploitable reserves. In Greece, due mainly to use of lignite for electricity production, the cost of Kw/h for both domestic use and for industrial is below the European Union average.
ADSORPTION OF PHENOLS FROM OLIVE OIL MILL WASTEWATER AS WELL AS N AND P FROM A SIMULATED CITY WASTEWATER LIQUID ON ACTIVATED GREEK LIGNITES
Authors: Papanicolaou C. , Triantafyllou G. , Pasadakis Ν. , Foscolos Α,Ε.
Published: July 2017

The results show that surface area of activated coal samples increased substantially and in some more than the commercial one. The increase in surface area was higher the higher the carbon content and the lower the ash content. The adsorption capacity of phenols and the decrease of COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) in olive oil mil wastewater disposals were measured in selected samples as well as the decrease of COD and the adsorption of nitrogen and phosphorus from a solution which simulates city waste disposals were measured in 14 selected Greek lignites and 1 commercially available activated lignite sample (HOK). The maximum recorded adsorption of phenol was 30.6 mg/g of activated lignite while the commercial one (HOK) adsorbed 16 mg/g of activated lignite. The COD reduction was 1262 mg of COD/g of activated lignite while in the commercial one the reduction was 439 mg of COD/g of activated lignite. The maximum adsorption of N and P from the simulated city waste liquid was 6.41 mg/g of activated lignite and 2.52 mg/g of activated lignite, respectively. while the commercial one (HOK) adsorbed 2.84 mg/g and 2.42 mg/g, respectively. Finally, the COD reduction was 50.28 mg/g of activatedlignite and 34.92 mg/g for the commercially one (HOK). The results show that Greek activated lignites can be used successfully for cleaning industrial and city wastes. These findings open the door for the economic exploitation of small to medium size lignite deposits in Greece, which are widespread in Greece.
HETEROGENEITY IN HEAVY METAL CONCENTRATIONS IN THE SOIL OF A FIRING RANGE AREA AT KESARIANI, ATHENS, GREECE
Authors: Argyraki A. , Petrakaki N.
Published: July 2017

Heterogeneity in metal concentrations is a typical characteristic of contaminated sampling targets, with consequences in the estimation of measurement Nuncertainty and the spatial delineation of contamination. Heterogeneity of Ncontamination is site specific and is linked to the type and origin of the Ncontaminants. In this paper we present a case study on a completed firing range, at Skopeftirio Park in Kesariani, Athens, Greece. The study focused on two heavy metals in the soil with contrasting properties. Lead, an element with high concentrations due to the previous land use of the park and Cr, an Nelement with concentrations close to the natural background at this site. Forty nine top soils samples (0-10cm) were collected from an area of 0.7 km2 by using a 40m x 40m grid. Duplicate samples were collected from 8 randomly selected sampling sites, 5 m away from the original sampling location and were analyzed in duplicate for the estimation of measurement uncertainly. Elemental concentrations were measured by AAS after an aqua- regia acid attack. Robust analysis of variance applied on duplicate measurements separated the total variability of the results into three components, representing the analytical, sampling and geochemical variances for the two elements in soil. It was shown that the combined sampling and analytical variance for the Pb has a high proportion in the total (53.5%) reflecting the extreme small-scale spatial variation of Pb contamination. For Cr, the proportion is lower (17%) indicating a more homogeneous distribution of elemental concentrations.
GEOCHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF NATURAL GAS MANIFESTATIONS IN GREECE
Authors: D’Alessandro W. , Brusca L. , Martelli M. , Rizzo A. , Kyriakopoulos K.
Published: July 2017

The Greek region is characterized by intense geodynamic activity with widespread volcanic, geothermal and seismic activity. Its complex geology is reflected in the large variety of chemical and isotopic composition of its gas manifestations. Basing on their chemical composition the gases can be subdivided in three groups, respectively CO2, CH4 or N2-dominated. On oxygen-free basis these three gases make up more than 97% of the total composition. The only exceptions are fumarolic gases of Nisyros that contain substantial amounts of H2S (up to more than 20%) and one sample of Milos that contains 15% of H2. CO2-dominated gases with clear mantle contribution in their He isotopic composition (R/Ra corrected for air contamination ranging from 0.5 to 5.7) are found along the subduction-related south Aegean active volcanic arc and on the Greek mainland close to recent (upper Miocene to Pleistocene) volcanic centers. These areas are generally characterized by active or recent extensive tectonic activity and high geothermal gradients. On the contrary, gases sampled in the more external nappes of the Hellenide orogen have generally a CH4- or N2-rich compositions and helium isotope composition with a dominant crustal contribution (R/Ra corr < 0.2). The chemical and isotopic characteristics of the emitted gas display therefore a clear relationshipwith the different geodynamic sectors of the region. Gas geochemistry of the area contributes to a better definition of the crust-mantle setting of the Hellenic region.
URBAN GEOCHEMICAL STUDIES IN EUROPE
Authors: Demetriades A. , Birke M. , Locutura J. , Bel-lan A.B. , Duris M. , EuroGeoSurveys Geochemistry Expert Group EuroGeoSurveys Geochemistry Expert Group
Published: July 2017

Urban soil is generally contaminated to a variable degree depending on its proximity to contamination sources. Traffic is one of the main sources of urban contamination; lead (Pb) from the use of leaded petrol, zinc (Zn) and cadmium (Cd) from tyre wear, antimony (Sb) from break pads, and the platinum group Nelements (PGEs) from the wear of catalytic converters, are some typical elements that often reach high concentrations in the urban environment. Lead was also a key ingredient in white paint, and in towns with a high proportion of white wooden houses very high concentrations were found in soil. Crematoria can or have emitted mercury (Hg). Coal and heavy oil fired municipal power and heating stations emit sulphur (S), silver (Ag), vanadium (V), bromine (Br) and barium (Ba). The use of impregnated wood may have resulted in high concentrations of arsenic (As), especially in kindergartens (nursery schools) and playgrounds. Building materials (plaster and paint) may also contain high concentrations of organic contaminants, especially polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which again end up in urban soil. Coal and wood burning, the use of diesel fuel, and the production of coke, all lead to the emission of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). There exist countless other sources of local contamination in towns, and there is thus every reason to be concerned about the quality of the urban environment, and the suitability of soil for sensitive land uses, such as schools, playgrounds, parks and vegetable gardens. Contaminated urban soil may contaminate indoor dust and, therefore, to an increased human exposure to toxic chemicals. Consequently, the distribution of toxic contaminants in urban soil needs to be documented and known by city administration to avoid costly mistakes in land use planning, and further spreading of highly contaminated materials. The EuroGeoSurveys ‘Geochemistry’ Expert Group during the compilation of a proposal to the Directors for a European wide urban geochemistry project, using a harmonised sampling and analytical methodology, it discovered that many urban geochemical studies have been performed in Europe by National Geological Surveys, which are not known to the wider geoscientific community. Since, the results of these studies are directly related to our quality of life, the EuroGeoSurveys ‘Geo-chemistry’ Expert Group decided to publish at least one case study from each country in a book,which will be available in the second half of 2010. A concise description of some of these studies will be given in this paper.
COMPARISON OF SAMPLING TECHNIQUES FOR ISOTOPIC ANALYSIS OF SHALLOW MARINE CARBONATES
Authors: Psomiadis D. , Dotsika E. , Albanakis K. , Zisi N. , Poutoukis D. , Lazaridis A.
Published: July 2017

Recent studies have widely used beachrock samples for isotopic and dating techniques; however the source matrix of the analyzed samples varied. Bulk rock material, skeletal fragments, allochems and pure cement have been used in different studies. Basic parameters of each technique are crucial for the accuracy and the reliability of the obtained results, affecting each time important agents. This study includes isotopic analyses (δ13C, δ18O) of marine carbonates (beachrocks) from the coasts of N. Greece (Thassos island). The sub-sampling was carried out along beachrock cores, following different procedures and protocols. The obtained results show in general expecting differences in isotopic composition of the samples. Experiments that included heating of the samples show an influence on oxygen isotope. Different separation and selection of sampling material affect majorly the isotope of carbon (13C). Differences are attributed to the origin of the carbonate component of the analyzed material. The study indicates that a full-range of comparison experiments should be implemented in order to define in detail the analytical parameters that affect isotopic measurements. The results of that kind of studies will be used not only in stable isotope analyses but also in a variety of methods used in palaeoclimatic and palaeoenvironmental research.
METHODOLOGY FOR OPTIMAL DETERMINATION OF NEW DRILLING PROGRAM IN AN ACTIVE OPEN PIT: EXAMPLE FROM AN ACTIVE SULFATE OPEN PIT IN ALTSI, LASITHI PREFECTURE, EASTERN CRETE
Authors: Manoutsoglou E. , Panagopoulos G. , Spyridonos E. , Georgiou A.
Published: July 2017

For the cement industry the minerals gypsum and anhydrite, due to their similar chemical composition, are of the same importance. In cement production line, the energy requirements for grinding anhydrite are different from that of gypsum. Occasionally, the difference in mechanical properties of the extreme members (anhydride / stiff - gypsum / brittle) can cause problems during grinding procedure. For these reasons it is necessary to be aware of the spatial distribution of these rocks in an active open pit. This knowledge, because of its strict connection with the calculation of the reserves (geological and recoverable), contributes to the direct production planning of the open pit and to the medium and long term planning as well. In order to approach the spatial distribution of sulphate rocks in the active gypsum open pit of INTERBETON S.A. in Altsi (Sitia region, Εastern Crete), new exploration boreholes were drilled. The proposed methodology concerning the determination of the new borehole locations consists of two steps. In the first step detailed geological mapping of the surface sulphate rocks is conducted and in the second step a three dimensional geological model is constructed. The model’s construction is based on data derived from a past drilling program. Those data were enriched with the results of geochemical analysis of 100 new surface samples. The surface samples were taken by means of Wagon Drill accordingly to a predefined grid. Five different drilling scenarios were proposed, contributing to the determination of the optimal drilling program.
PURIFICATION OF URBAN WASTEWATERS BY HELLENIC NATURAL ZEOLITE
Authors: Filippidis A. , Papastergios G. , Apostolidis N. , Filippidis S. , Paragios I. , Sikalidis C.
Published: July 2017

Treatment of urban wastewaters (pHinitial 8.2), with 6 g of Hellenic Natural Zeolite (HENAZE) of an grain-size < 1.5 mm, gave overflowed clear water of pH 7.5, free of odors and improved quality parameters by 87% for the suspended particles, 88% for the color, 91% for the P2O5 content, 93% for the chemical oxygen demand (COD) and 97% for the NH4 content. Compared to previous experiment, the decrease of the amount of HENAZE by 1.5 g (20%) resulted to the purification worsening only by 1-2%. The HENAZE comes from Ntrista stream of Petrota village of Trigono Municipality of Evros Prefecture, Northeastern Greece. HENAZE contains 89 wt.% HEU-type zeolite and exhibit an ammonia ion exchange capacity (sorption ability) of 226 meq/100g. The mineralogical composition and the unique physico-chemical properties, make the HENAZE suitable material for numerous environmental, industrial, agricultural and aquacultural applications, such as: Animal nutrition, soil amendment for agriculture, pH soil regulation, greenhouse and flowers substrates, durability and health improvement of lawn, purification of industrial and urban wastewaters, treatment of sewage sludge, odor control, fishery and fish breeding, gas purification and drying systems, oxygen enrichment of aquatic ecosystems, improvement of drinking water quality, constructed wetlands and wastewater treatment units. The treatment gave as precipitate an odorless and cohesive zeo-sewage sludge, suitable for safe deposition and also for the reclamation of agricultural soils. The zeo-sewage sludge, produced either from the urban wastewater treatment or from the mixing of HENAZE and sewage sludge, can be used for the reclamation of agricultural soils. The presence of HENAZE in the agricultural soils, increases the crops yield by 29 57% and improves the quality of agricultural products by 4-46%, reduces the use of fertilizers by 55-100%, reduces the usage of irrigation water by 33-67%, prevents the seepage of dangerous species into the water environment (e.g., NO3 - by 55-57%), protecting thus the quality of surface and underground waters. The usage of HENAZE in vivarium units and in the animal nutrition, increases the production and improves the quality of the relevant products.
STUDY OF THE METAMORPHIC EVOLUTION OF A CARBONATE-BEARING METAPERIDOTITE FROM THE SIDIRONERO COMPLEX (CENTRAL RHODOPE, GREECE) USING P-T AND P(T)-XCO2 PSEUDOSECTIONS
Authors: Mposkos E. , Baziotis I.
Published: July 2017

The carbonate-bearing metaperidotite from Sidironero Complex, north of the Xanthi town is composed primarily of olivine and orthopyroxene megacrysts and of Ti-clinohumite, tremolite, chlorite, dolomite, magnesite, talc, antigorite and spinel group minerals. The metaperidotite underwent a prograde HP metamorphism probably isofacial with the neighboring amphibolitized eclogites. Calculated P-T and P(T)-XCO2 phase diagram sections (pseudosections) for the bulk rock composition showed that XCO2 in the fluid phase was extremely low (≤0.008) at the first stages of the metamorphism and increased up to 0.022 at the peak P-T conditions ~1.5 GPa and 690 0C. The prograde metamorphism probably started from a hydrated and carbonated assemblage including talc+chlorite+magnesite+dolomite and proceeded with tremolite and antigorite formation before olivine growth, and orthopyroxene formation after olivine growth (Ol-1). Matrix dolomite, breakdown of chlorite (Chl-1) to Cr spinel+olivine and of Ti-clinohumite to olivine+Mg-ilmenite occurred during decompression. The P-T path is constrained by the absence of clinopyroxene in the metaperidotite.
MODELLING OF VOLCANIC ERUPTIONS ON TITAN
Authors: Solomonidou A. , Fortes A.D. , Kyriakopoulos K.
Published: July 2017

Observations by the Visual Infrared Spectrometer instrument (VIMS) aboard the Cassini mission haveindicated the possible presence of CO2 ice on the surface on Titan, in areas which exhibit highreflectance in specific spectral windows (McCord et al., 2008). Two of the bright spots of significanceare located within the Xanadu region – Tui Regio (located at 20°S, 130°W) and Hotei Regio (locatedat 26°S, 78°W), and there is a further spot situated in proximity to Omacatl Macula (Hayne et al.,2008). Explosive volcanic eruptions of a cryomagma containing H2O and CO2 are modelled forseveral potential scenarios regarding entrained CO2 clathrates. The model yielded a range of valuescorresponding to the fragmentation pressure in the lava conduit, the velocity of the explodingcryomagma, the height of the associated lava fountain and the potential distance covered by ejecta.The results show that a single vent source does not possess the force required to cover an arearesembling Hotei Regio or Tui Regio. Therefore, we consider alternative origins: the area may havebeen resurfaced by small CO2 grains resulting from multiple explosive eruptions emanating from azone of weakness (Hayne et al., 2008); the characteristics of the area are consequential of an eruptionof cryomagma with CO2 and NH3 components (McCord et al., 2008); or finally, long term seasonalwinds transferred small CO2 grains and distributed them within the limits of Tui Regio area.
THE USE OF DIATOMACEOUS ROCKS OF GREEK ORIGIN AS ABSORBENTS OF OLIVE-OIL WASTERS
Authors: Stamatakis M. , Stamatakis G.
Published: July 2017

Diatomite is a multifunctional industrial mineral, having commercial interest in the food/agricultural and the construction sectors and also in environmental applications. Certain diatomite deposits worldwide are used as absorbents and filtering media in industrial scale. In Greece, several types of diatomaceous deposits (calcareous, clayey or amorphous phases-rich) occur in marine or lacustrine Tertiary basins. Bulk samples originated from western Macedonia, Thessaly and the islands of Samos and Milos were characterized, tested and compared concerning their absorption ability against olive mill wastes. The results of the current research show insignificant variations in the absorption ability of the tested Greek diatomites exhibiting equal or better behavior than some of the commercially used absorbents, either diatomaceous, or clayey. Hence, the Greek raw materials could find applications in the prevention of seashores and river banks pollution from the acidic olive-oil wastes.
Case Report: Laparoscopic hepatectomy in an elderly patient with major comorbidities
Authors: Sotiropoulos Georgios C. , Machairas Nikolaos , Kostakis Ioannis D.
Published: July 2017

Surgeons have been hesitant to proceed to hepatectomy in elderly patients, due to the higher rate of comorbidities and the reduced reserves. An 81-year-old male with hepatocellular carcinoma in the segment VI of the liver and several major cardiovascular, pulmonary and metabolic comorbid illnesses was referred to our department for treatment. He underwent transarterial chemoembolization of the liver tumor and afterwards he underwent laparoscopic resection of the hepatic segment VI, with an uneventful postoperative course. This case indicates the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic liver resections in older patients, even when major comorbidities are present, provided that there is a careful planning of therapeutic strategy and operation.
How to volunteer – a true-life experience in a refugee camp
Authors: Cox Laura
Published: July 2017

Helping a charity with much-needed dental care can be a rollercoaster but also ‘a fulfilling, character-building, friendship-making, amazing experience’ says dental therapist Laura Cox
The science behind the products
Authors: Yates Laura
Published: July 2017

What is it like to be an integral part of a real scientific team?
Purification of Alginate Lyase from Streptomyces violaceoruber and the Growth Activity of Intestinal Bacteria by Degree of Polymerization of Alginate Hydrolysates
Authors: Yoon Min , Park Young-Seo , Park Gwi-Gun
Published: July 2017

Alginate lyase from Streptomyces violaceoruber was purified by DEAE sephacel chromatography and SP sepharose chromatography. The specific activity of the purified enzyme was 14.6 units/mg protein, representing a 40.6-fold purification of the crude extract. The final preparation thus obtained showed a single band on Tricine-SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis whose molecular weight was determined to be 23.3 kDa. The polyMG block of sodium alginate was hydrolyzed by the purified alginate lyase and then separated by activated carbon column chromatography and bio gel P-2 gel filtration. The main hydrolysates were composed of hetero type M/G-oligosaccharides with the degrees of polymerization (D.P.) being 6 and 8. To investigate the effects of hetero type M/Goligosaccharides from the sodium alginate on the growth of some intestinal bacteria, cells were cultivated individually on the modified-MRS medium containing D.P. 6 and 8 M/G-oligosaccharides. B. longumgrew 4.25-fold and 6.44-fold more effectively by the treatment of D.P. 6 and 8 M/G-oligosaccharides compared with those of standard MRS medium. In addition, B. bifidumgrew 3.3-fold and 5.4-fold more effectively by the treatment of D.P. 6 and 8 M/G-oligosaccharides. In conclusion, D.P. 8 was more effective than D.P. 6 hetero M/G-oligosaccharides as regards the growth of Bifidobacteriumspp. and Lactobacillus spp.
Effect of Millimeter Waves on Quality Characteristics of Cheonggukjang
Authors: Seo Dong-Ho , Kim Mi-Seon , Kum Jun-Seok
Published: July 2017

Millimeter waves are electromagnetic waves with frequencies of 30–300 GHz (wavelength 1–10 mm), and millimeter wave stimulation affects microorganism growth. The present study stimulated Bacillus subtilis with 60 and 70 GHz millimeter waves during cheonggukjang fermentation and characterized the effects on cheonggukjang quality. Cheonggukjang treated with millimeter wave irradiation showed no significant difference in total bacterial count but generated only 5.52-5.92% viscous substance. Irradiation with 60 GHz millimeter waves yielded bright and intense color values relative to 70 GHz millimeter waves. Examination of the amylase activity and reducing sugar content of finished Cheonggukjang revealed that irradiation at 70 GHz inhibited amylase activity in Cheonggukjang. Furthermore, irradiation at 70 GHz increased protease activity, whereas irradiation at 60 GHz inhibited the activity. Moreover, the amino acid content changed with millimeter wave irradiation.