bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combination of multi-agent systems and embedded hardware for the monitoring and analysis of diuresis
Authors: Villarrubia Gabriel , Hernández Daniel , De Paz Juan F , Bajo Javier
Published: July 2017

The early detection and monitoring of kidney disease continues being an important problem in medicine. The diagnosis and treatment of patients with this disease usually require expensive medical equipment that is difficult to install. Patients or medical centers may not always be able to afford such equipment. This work proposes the creation of a wireless sensor network for medical environments; it will assist medical professionals in the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with renal symptomatology. This work will focus on the analysis of symptoms that accompany this disease and the design of a system which will help determine types of kidney diseases. The proposed system will incorporate new hardware mechanisms and an intelligent system. It will be designed through a multi-agent architecture based on virtual organizations. This architecture will include a new model of agents, specifically designed to be incorporated into computationally limited devices. This hardware will be characterized by its low cost and ease of use. A case study has been carried out in order to validate the proposed architecture. In order to validate the proposed architecture, we designed a case study that aims to provide a technological tool for medical professionals and makes it possible to determine any diseases related to diuresis. The initial results are promising.
Received strength signal intensity performance analysis in wireless sensor network using Arduino platform and XBee wireless modules
Authors: Cama-Pinto Alejandro , Piñeres-Espitia Gabriel , Caicedo-Ortiz José , Ramírez-Cerpa Elkin , Betancur-Agudelo Leonardo , Gómez-Mula Francisco
Published: July 2017

Today, through the monitoring of agronomic variables, the wireless sensor networks are playing an increasingly important role in precision agriculture. Among the emerging technologies used to develop prototypes related to wireless sensor network, we find the Arduino platform and XBee radio modules from the DIGI Company. In this article, based on field tests, we conducted a comparative analysis of received strength signal intensity levels, calculation of path loss with “log-normal shadowing” and free-space path loss models. In addition, we measure packet loss for different transmission, distances and environments with respect to an “Arduino Mega” board, and radio modules XBee PRO S1 and XBee Pro S2. The tests for the packet loss and received strength signal intensity level show the best performance for the XBee Pro S2 in the indoor, outdoor, and rural scenarios.
What Constitutes Sexual Harassment and How Should Administrators Handle It?
Authors: Mansfield Katherine Cumings , Beck Amy Gray , Fung Kakim , Montiel Marta , Goldman Madeline
Published: July 2017

Gender discrimination and sexual harassment persist on college campuses across the United States. This seems especially obvious at the beginning of the academic year when many freshman women and their parents are welcomed to campus with sexually explicit signs displayed on all-male residences. But, sometimes, sexual harassment and gender discrimination takes a subtler form, creating unique challenges for administrators. This article presents the true case of a professional fraternity party gone awry, testing the leadership skills of several college administrators. The case provides a platform for educational leadership students to apply the theories they are learning in their preparation programs to real-life situations. This case is important and timely as educational leaders across the p-20 pipeline struggle to navigate the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights’ 2011 directives concerning defining and responding to allegations of sexual assault and harassment.
Beacon Charter School Needs a School: A Case of Capital Outlay of Charters in a Public District
Authors: Wronowski Meredith L.
Published: July 2017

The case study presented below is a representation of a real-world, ongoing situation involving a public school district’s capital outlay for charter schools within its boundaries. One particular charter, Beacon Charter School, was promised a permanent building by the public school district that also acts as its authorizer. However, recent events have created a statewide revenue failure which has, in return, caused a dramatic decrease in the school district’s available funds. The school district leadership must decide whether they can still provide school facilities to Beacon Charter School. To complicate matters, the political climate surrounding the district’s 12 charter schools has become increasingly contentious. This case study provides ample material for discussion as well as suggests guiding questions and activities.
Complex dynamics and control investigation of a Cournot triopoly game formed based on a log-concave demand function
Authors: Alnowibet K , Askar SS , Elsadany AA
Published: July 2017

This article investigates the dynamics of a Cournot triopoly game whose demand function is characterized by log-concavity. The game is formed using the bounded rationality approach. The existence and local stability of steady states of the game are analyzed. We find that an increase in the game parameters out of the stability region destabilizes the Cournot–Nash steady state. We confirm our obtained results using some numerical simulation. The simulation shows the consistence with the theoretical analysis and displays new and interesting dynamic behaviors, including bifurcation diagrams, phase portraits, maximal Lyapunov exponent, and sensitive dependence on initial conditions. Finally, a feedback control scheme is adopted to overcome the uncontrollable behavior of the game’s system occurred due to chaos.
Self-awareness and professionalism
Authors: Papanikitas Andrew
Published: July 2017

Professionalism is a key component of good general practice, and self-awareness is a key component of professionalism. Being self-aware means understanding your own fitness to practice as a GP. It is a critical skill for ePortfolio reflections and appraisals, as it is a critical skill for good practice. In this article I will offer an approach to professional self-awareness through a set of four questions: What are my goals? What are my beliefs? What are my values? and What is my condition?
Possible Similarities in the Linguistic Structure of John 8.25b and John 8.45a
Authors: Förster Hans
Published: July 2017

It appears possible to point to linguistic structures in John 8.25b and 45a which exhibit similarities. While John 8.25b has seen discussion, the problems of John 8.45a have not been given much attention. This article argues that both passages contain structures which derive from Semitic influence on the Greek. This is important both for translating the sentences and for the question of the author of John’s Gospel and his background.
Explaining Away Disorder: The Influence of Context on Impressions of Mental Health Symptoms
Authors: Marsh Jessecae K. , De Los Reyes Andres
Published: July 2017

Clinical assessments involve understanding displays of mental disorder symptoms in the contexts in which they display. Contextual information plays a large role in externalizing disorder assessments. Yet we know little about contextual information’s impact within internalizing disorder assessments. Panic disorder symptoms develop outside environmental effects, but over time symptoms become conditioned responses to one’s environment, making this disorder an interesting test case. In two experiments ( N = 269), lay participants read vignettes about children displaying a single symptom of panic disorder embedded in contextual information that either conformed or did not conform to the presence of panic disorder. Contextual information changed interpretations of panic disorder symptoms and reduced judgments of the likelihood of panic disorder. This effect held when participants made judgments about panic disorder only (Experiment 1) and when alongside externalizing disorder symptoms (Experiment 2). These findings have important implications for understanding interpretive judgments about symptoms within diagnostic assessments of mental health.
The use of fluoroscopic guided percutaneous pedicle screws in the upper thoracic spine (T1–T6): Is it safe?
Authors: Kwan Mun Keong , Chiu Chee Kidd , Chan Chris Yin Wei , Zamani Reza , Hansen-Algenstaedt Nils
Published: July 2017

Purpose:

This study analysed the accuracy and safety of the fluoroscopic guided percutaneous screws in the upper thoracic vertebrae (T1–T6).

Methods:

Computed tomography scans from 74 patients were retrospectively evaluated between January 2008 and December 2012. Pedicle perforations were classified by two types of grading systems. For medial, lateral, superior and inferior perforations: grade 0 – no violation; grade 1 – <2 mm; grade 2 – 2–4 mm and grade 3 – >4 mm. For anterior perforations: grade 0 – no violation; grade 1 – <4 mm; grade 2 – 4–6 mm and grade 3 – >6 mm.

Results:

There were 35 (47.3%) male and 39 (52.7%) female patients with a total 260 thoracic pedicle screws (T1–T6) analysed. There were 32 screw perforations which account to a perforation rate of 12.3% (11.2% grade 1, 0.7% grade 2 and 0.4% grade 3). None led to pedicle screw-related complications. The perforation rate was highest at T1 (33.3%, all grade 1 perforations), followed by T6 (14.5%) and T4 (14.0%).

Conclusion:

Fluoroscopic guided percutaneous pedicle screws of the upper thoracic spine (T1–T6) are technically more demanding and carry potential risks of serious complications. Extra precautions need to be taken when fluoroscopic guided percutaneous pedicle screws are placed at T1 and T2 levels, due to high medial pedicular angulation and obstruction of lateral fluoroscopic images by the shoulder girdle and at T4–T6 levels, due to smaller pedicular width.
A Model for Recruiting and Preparing New Rural Special Educators: Mining an Untapped Potential
Authors: Sundeen Todd H. , Wienke Wilfred D.
Published: July 2017

Special education teachers continue to be in short supply. The shortage is especially significant in rural areas. Identifying pools of potential new rural special educators is a challenging prospect for university personnel responsible for recruiting new students and populating graduate level special education teacher training programs. This article describes the current need for recruiting new rural special education teachers, traditional recruitment avenues, special recruitment challenges, and a unique and successful approach for recruiting new special educators. Aspects of the strategy described include the identification of specific populations of university students and recruiting new special educators from those populations of students who hold undergraduate degrees in fields other than teaching. Specific components of a unique recruitment effort designed to enhance enrollment in special education graduate programs are included.
A Comparison of Large Lecture, Fully Online, and Hybrid Sections of Introduction to Special Education
Authors: O'brien Chris , Hartshorne Richard , Beattie John , Jordan Luann
Published: July 2017

This study evaluated the effectiveness of flexible learning options at a university serving multiple geographic areas (including remote and rural areas) and age groups by teaching an introduction to special education course to three large groups of pre-teacher education majors using three modes of instruction. The university offered sections as (a) a traditional large lecture class, (b) a fully online asynchronous course, and (c) a hybrid course with lecture and asynchronous online instruction. Data analysis centered on course performance, perceptions of instructional effectiveness, and perceptions of preparedness for future role as teachers of students with special needs. The researchers noted no statistically significant differences in students’ perceptions of instructional effectiveness; however, the presumed attractiveness of the flexibility of online instruction did not appear to extend to traditional undergraduates who required more support in developing personal responsibility and organizational strategies. Results also indicated that face-to-face interactions with instructors positively impacted perceptions of preparedness for teaching.
Significance of long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in human health
Authors: Zárate Rafael , el Jaber‐Vazdekis Nabil , Tejera Noemi , Pérez José A. , Rodríguez Covadonga
Published: July 2017

In the last decades, the development of new technologies applied to lipidomics has revitalized the analysis of lipid profile alterations and the understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms of lipid metabolism, together with their involvement in the occurrence of human disease. Of particular interest is the study of omega‐3 and omega‐6 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC‐PUFAs), notably EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid, 20:5n‐3), DHA (docosahexaenoic acid, 22:6n‐3), and ARA (arachidonic acid, 20:4n‐6), and their transformation into bioactive lipid mediators. In this sense, new families of PUFA‐derived lipid mediators, including resolvins derived from EPA and DHA, and protectins and maresins derived from DHA, are being increasingly investigated because of their active role in the “return to homeostasis” process and resolution of inflammation. Recent findings reviewed in the present study highlight that the omega‐6 fatty acid ARA appears increased, and omega‐3 EPA and DHA decreased in most cancer tissues compared to normal ones, and that increments in omega‐3 LC‐PUFAs consumption and an omega‐6/omega‐3 ratio of 2–4:1, are associated with a reduced risk of breast, prostate, colon and renal cancers. Along with their lipid‐lowering properties, omega‐3 LC‐PUFAs also exert cardioprotective functions, such as reducing platelet aggregation and inflammation, and controlling the presence of DHA in our body, especially in our liver and brain, which is crucial for optimal brain functionality. Considering that DHA is the principal omega‐3 FA in cortical gray matter, the importance of DHA intake and its derived lipid mediators have been recently reported in patients with major depressive and bipolar disorders, Alzheimer disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The present study reviews the relationships between major diseases occurring today in the Western world and LC‐PUFAs. More specifically this review focuses on the dietary omega‐3 LC‐PUFAs and the omega‐6/omega‐3 balance, in a wide range of inflammation disorders, including autoimmune diseases. This review suggests that the current recommendations of consumption and/or supplementation of omega‐3 FAs are specific to particular groups of age and physiological status, and still need more fine tuning for overall human health and well being.
Smartphone citizen science: can a conservation hypothesis be tested using non specialist technology?
Authors: Wess T.
Published: July 2017

The work presented here, describes a citizen science scoping study using accessible stand-alone smartphone technology. Paper discolouration in a single journal type, the Wagga Wagga Daily Advertiser published from the dates 1876–2004 was chosen as the focus of study, with a specific hypothesis to be tested; that the wartime journals were more discoloured by yellowing due to them being accessed more frequently. A series of measurements were carried out with a smartphone device using the camera to act as a colorimeter and converting the CIE L xy vector length into a yellowing parameter Y. A number of preliminary attempts were made to recreate conditions that corresponded to the measurements of Y using a conventional spectrophotometer, this was by standardising distance from object and through a number of lighting conditions. It was found that the most consistently comparable results (with an offset) could be obtained using an iPhone 6S with the light source from an additional iPhone with sample to aperture distance of 4 cm. Both studies showed that the large increase in Y occurred in journals printed around 1912 with a plateau of elevated Y value detected in journals until the 1950s after which the Y parameter decreased until 2004. This indicates the frequency access hypothesis to be false and this negative proof was able to be evidenced by the data collected by the iPhone. It would be suggested that great care needs to be taken if such an approach of stand-alone measurement were to be taken into citizen science; training and testing would need to be undertaken, because of the challenge of reproducibility and the risk of sampling irreplaceable objects.
Internet of things enabled real time water quality monitoring system
Authors: Geetha S. , Gouthami S.
Published: July 2017

Smart solutions for water quality monitoring are gaining importance with advancement in communication technology. This paper presents a detailed overview of recent works carried out in the field of smart water quality monitoring. Also, a power efficient, simpler solution for in-pipe water quality monitoring based on Internet of Things technology is presented. The model developed is used for testing water samples and the data uploaded over the Internet are analyzed. The system also provides an alert to a remote user, when there is a deviation of water quality parameters from the pre-defined set of standard values.
Microscopy analysis of reconstituted COPII coat polymerization and Sec16 dynamics
Authors: Iwasaki Hirohiko , Yorimitsu Tomohiro , Sato Ken
Published: July 2017

The COPII coat and the small GTPase Sar1 mediate protein export from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) via specialized domains known as the ER exit sites. The peripheral ER protein Sec16 has been proposed to organize ER exit sites. However, it remains unclear how these molecules drive COPII coat polymerization. Here, we characterized the spatiotemporal relationships between the Saccharomyces cerevisiae COPII components during their polymerization by performing fluorescence microscopy of an artificial planar membrane. We demonstrated that Sar1 dissociates from the membrane shortly after the COPII coat recruitment, and Sar1 is then no longer required for the COPII coat to bind to the membrane. Furthermore, we found that Sec16 is incorporated within the COPII–cargo clusters, and that this is dependent on the Sar1 GTPase cycle. These data show how Sar1 drives the polymerization of COPII coat and how Sec16 is spatially distributed during COPII coat polymerization.
Bend Them but Don't Break Them: Passionate Workers, Skeptical Managers, and Decision Making in Organizations
Authors: Nayeem Omar A.
Published: July 2017

This paper explores the useful but delicate role of managerial skepticism in hierarchical knowledge-based organizations. In these settings, the decision-maker principal seeks advice from managers, who instruct expert frontline workers to acquire information. Given unverifiable information quality and private-valued agents, moral hazard and adverse selection arise with workers and managers, respectively. Pairing extremely passionate workers with moderately skeptical managers alleviates both problems; however, the degree of managerial skepticism must be finely tuned: too little skepticism fails to improve workers' incentives, while too much skepticism destroys workers' incentives altogether. Case studies from the high-tech industry support these insights. (JEL D23, D82, M12, M51)
Collective Self-Control
Authors: Lizzeri Alessandro , Yariv Leeat
Published: July 2017

Behavioral economics presents a “paternalistic” rationale for a benevolent government's intervention. We consider an economy where the only “distortion” is agents' time-inconsistency. We study the desirability of various forms of collective action, ones pertaining to costly commitment and ones pertaining to the timing of consumption, when government decisions respond to voters' preferences via the political process. Three messages emerge. First, welfare is highest under either full centralization or laissez-faire. Second, introducing collective action only on consumption decisions yields no commitment. Last, individuals' relative preferences for commitment may reverse depending on whether future consumption decisions are centralized or not. (JEL D03, D11, D61, D72, D91)
No differences in radiological changes after 3D conformal vs VMAT-based stereotactic radiotherapy for early stage non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Badellino Serena , Muzio Jacopo Di , Schivazappa Giulia , Guarneri Alessia , Ragona Riccardo , Bartoncini Sara , Trino Elisabetta , Filippi Andrea Riccardo , Fonio Paolo , Ricardi Umberto
Published: July 2017

Objective:

To compare patterns of acute and late radiological lung injury following either 3D conformal or image-guided volumetric modulated arc therapy stereotactic radiotherapy for Stage I non-small-cell lung cancer.

Methods:

We included 148 patients from a prospective mono-institutional stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) series (time interval 2004–2014), treated with prescription BED10 Gy (at 80%) in the range 100–120 Gy. The first 95 patients (2004–2010) were planned with 3D-CRT, with a stereotactic body frame. The second cohort (2010–2014) included 53 patients, planned with volumetric IMRT on a smaller planning target volume generated from a patient’s specific internal target volume, with a frameless approach through cone-beam CT guidance. Acute and late radiological modifications were scored based on modified Kimura’s and Koenig’s classifications, respectively.

Results:

Median follow-up time was 20.5 months. The incidence of acute radiological changes was superimposable between the groups: increased density was observed in 68.4 and 64.2% of patients for 3D-CRT and VMAT, respectively, and patchy ground glass opacity in 23.7 and 24.5%, respectively; diffuse ground glass opacity was 2.6 vs 9.4%, respectively, and patchy consolidation 2.6 vs 1.9%, respectively. Late changes occurred in approximately 60% of patients: modified conventional pattern was the most frequent modification (25 vs 32.6%, respectively); other patterns were less common (mass-like 19.6 vs 17.4%, and scar-like 13 vs 10.9%, respectively).

Conclusion:

Results of the present study indicate that the pattern of radiological lung changes following SBRT for peripheral early stage non-small-cell lung cancer is not influenced by the different techniques used for planning and delivery.

Advances in knowledge:

This comparative observational study shows that smaller margins, image guidance and most importantly dose distribution do not change the pattern of radiological injury after lung SBRT; the same scoring system can be used, and expected incidence is similar.
Quantifying potential reduction in contrast dose with monoenergetic images synthesized from dual-layer detector spectral CT
Authors: Tsang Derek S , Merchant Thomas E , Merchant Sophie E , Smith Hanna , Yagil Yoad , Hua Chia-Ho
Published: July 2017

Objective:

To estimate the potential dose reduction in iodinated contrast when interpreting monoenergetic images from spectral CT.

Methods:

51 paediatric patients received contrast-enhanced CT simulation for radiation therapy using a single-source, dual-layer detector spectral CT. The contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs) of blood vessels were measured relative to surrounding soft tissue. CNRs on monoenergetic 40–70 keV images were compared with polychromatic 120 kVp images. To compare with in vivo results, a phantom with iodine inserts (2–20 mg ml–1 concentration) was scanned and CNRs were calculated relative to water background.

Results:

Monoenergetic keV and body site had significant effects on CNR ratio (p < 0.0001). Across all body sites, the mean CNR ratio (monoenergetic/polychromatic CNR) was 3.3 (20th percentile [%20] 2.6), 2.4 (%20 2.1), 1.7 (%20 1.5), 1.2 (%20 1.0) for 40, 50, 60 and 70 keV images, respectively. Image noise was highest at 40 keV and lowest at 70 keV. Phantom measurements indicated that the same CNR as 120 kVp images can be achieved with a 4.0-fold lower iodine concentration on 40 keV images and 2.5-fold lower on 50 keV images.

Conclusion:

50 keV monoenergetic images provided the best balance of improved CNR on all studies (mean 2.4-fold increase in vivo) for enhancing vessels vs image noise. A 50% reduction in contrast dose on a 50 keV image should maintain comparable or better CNR as compared with polychromatic CT in over 80% of CT studies.

Advances in knowledge:

Use of a novel, single-source, dual-layer detector spectral CT scanner to improve visualization of contrast-enhanced blood vessels will reduce the amount of iodinated contrast required for radiation oncology treatment planning.
Phase II study of concurrent chemoradiotherapy with a modified target volumes delineation method for inoperable oesophagealcancer patients
Authors: Zhang Wenyi , Li Huifang , Chen Xingxing , Su Meng , Lin Ruifang , Zou Changlin
Published: July 2017

Objective:

A Phase II study was designed to test the safety and efficacy of concurrent chemoradiotherapy with a modified target volumes delineation method for inoperable oesophageal cancer patients.

Methods:

All eligible patients were treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy. The method of delineating target volume is as follows: Planning gross target volume (PGTV) was defined as the primary gross tumour volume (GTV-t) plus a 3 cm margin longitudinally and a 0.5 cm margin circumferentially, and positive lymph nodes(GTV-n) plus a 0.5 cm margin in all directions. Clinical target volume (CTV) was defined as PGTV plus a 0.5 cm margin in all directions and elective nodal region. Planning target volume (PTV) was defined as CTV plus a 0.5 cm margin in all directions. The dose of PGTV is 54–60 Gy in 27–30 fractions(2Gy per fraction). The dose of PTV is 48.6–54 Gy in 27–30 fractions(1.8Gy per fraction). The regimen consists of paclitaxel135 mgm−  2 on 1 day and DDP 25 mgm−  2 on 3 days per 3 weeks. The patients received 2 cycles of chemotherapy during radiotherapy and 2–4 cycles of chemotherapy after radiotherapy.

Results:

34 patients were enrolled in this study. The median follow-up time was 20.9 months (range: 3.7–28.4 months) for all patients. The 1- and 2-year survival rates for all patients were 70.5 and 44.1%, respectively. Clinical complete response was observed in 21 patients(61.8%), cPR was observed in 9 patients(26.5%) and cSD was observed in 4 patients(11.7%).

Conclusion:

This modified method with concurrent chemotherapy could achieve better locoregional control rate. The 1- and 2-year survival rates of this method were close to the survival rates of the current methods widely adopted.

Advances in knowledge:

The modified target volumes delineation method can enhance locoregional control rate of concurrent chemoradiotherapy.
OFFSHORE FAULTING IN THE AEGEAN SEA: A SYNTHESIS BASED ON BATHYMETRIC AND SEISMIC PROFILING DATA
Authors: Sakellariou D. , Tsampouraki-Kraounaki K.
Published: July 2017

Twenty five years after a first attempt by Mascle and Martin (1990), this paper aims at delivering an updated and considerably richer, map of the offshore faults in the Aegean Sea. Reinterpretation of vintage analogue seismic profiles, interpretation of new profiles and records of swath bathymetry data made available in the last two decades, as well as relocation of published faults originally interpreted on lowresolution bathymetric maps, on the new, more accurate bathymetric background have enabled the preparation of a more precise and complete map of active faults occurring in the Aegean Sea. This attempt is a first step towards the creation of an offshore faults database.
DEVELOPMENT AND PRECODIFICATION OF A LITHOSPHERE QUESTIONNAIRE AS A TOOL IN EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH (GEOSCIENCES)
Authors: Bakopoulou A. , Antonarakou A. , Lozios S. , Zambetakis - Lekkas A.
Published: July 2017

This paper presents the theoretical approach and the technical steps for the development of a questionnaire on lithosphere for the 1st class of Greek junior high school. It, also, discusses the importance and the multifunctional role of such a questionnaire (i.e. GCI tool). Furthermore it presents an innovative precodification of open-ended questions based on the set question - control question, which offers valid data for a qualitative study like this. The cognitional control table offers abundant data about students’ cognitional structure and about whether conceptual change has been achieved.
CLASSIFICATION OF BUILDING STONES OF THE FRANGOKASTELLO CASTLE, SFAKIA, CRETE
Authors: Cheimonas Th. , Manoutsoglou E. , Stavroulaki M. , Skoutelis N.
Published: July 2017

Frangokastello is a medieval castle which was built by the Venetians in 1371-74 in a narrow coastal zone at the southeastern part of the White Mountains, approximately 12 km east of Chora Sfakion. The region around Frangokastello characterized by a strong morphological relief, which was formed by activity of normal faults striking E-W, NNESSW and NNW-SSE. The region of interest has covered at the surface from sequences mainly marine sediments of Τortonian, Low Pliocene and Lower Pleistocene. From the Middle Pleistocene multiple alluvial fans have been cover the alpine basement of the region which consists from metamorphic rocks of the Plattenkalk Group, Trypali Unit and Phyllite Quartzite Series as well the youngest in age formations. Rounded and angular fragments of rock materials from alpine and post alpine formations transported and deposited within the various parts of alluvial fan which had deposited over the Frangokastello formation, constituted the building stones for the construction of the castle. The microclimate of the region and the intense tectonic activity associated with relatively high rates of uplift of the tectonic segments in the region, has critically affect not only the static of the castle but also the resistance from the weathering of building stones after physical dismantling large parts of the binding cement and surface from outer wall. On the basis of the above, the objective of this work is initially the collection of bibliographic data related to the stratigraphy and tectonics of the region. The results obtained, combined with the results from counting and statistical processing of various lithological types of building materials of the castle can be considered input data to form static models, in the framework of proposals for maintenance and restoration of the monument.
COASTAL GEOMORPHOLOGICAL FEATURES AND GEOARCHAEOLOGICAL POTENTIAL OF KAVOURI BAY, ATTICA, GREECE
Authors: Vandarakis D. , Pavlopoulos K. , Kapsimalis V.
Published: July 2017

The discovery of a paved Hellenistic road, which was ended at the shoreline of the Megalo Kavouri bay in Attica, Greece, led the archaeologists to hypothesize that an ancient harbour would be located somewhere at the adjacent submarine area. For the identification of the position of this harbour, a joint submarine and littoral geomorphological survey was carried out. The oceanographic mission was conducted in order to map the underwater landforms. A variety of geomorphological characteristics, types of substrate and habitats (i.e., rocky outcrops, boulder or gravel accumulations etc.) and anthropogenic objects (i.e., debris of recent construction material) were identified in the shallow water seabed of the Kavouri Bay. The littoral geomorphological survey was carried out to determine the natural processes affecting the continental part of the area and map the coastal landscape features. Data derived by both submarine and littoral geomorphological investigations indicate that the most probable location of the harbour could be situated in the southern part of the study area.
GEOMORPHIC CONSTRAINS ON THE EVOLUTION OF THE AGGITIS RIVER BASIN NORTHERN GREECE (A PRELIMINARY REPORT)
Authors: Pennos Ch. , Lauritzen S.E. , Pechlivanidou S. , Sotiriadis Y.
Published: July 2017

In this paper we discuss the landscape evolution of the Aggitis River basin by correlating the morphological characteristics of the Maaras Cave (Aggitis River spring) with the main geomorphological features of the Aggitis fluvial valley. We combine the various morphological features that are hidden inside the Maaras Cave with the surface geomorphology of the river valley in order to trace the imprint of the different evolutionary stages on the landscape. Also, we provide a relative chronological framework for the evolution of the area. The 3D survey of the Maaras Cave shows that the roof of the cave is looping-like shaped in contrast to the floor of the cave that shows low slopes and holds thick clastic sediment deposits. Furthermore, the geomorphological mapping of the Aggitis River valley shows two prominent windgaps at the southern part of the basin that formed as the result of river capture. Our results suggest that the Aggitis River basin suffered four major evolutionary stages from the Neogene until the Quaternary.
RECENT SEDIMENTARY PROCESSES IN THE WESTERN GULF OF CORINTH, GREECE: SEISMIC AND ASEISMIC TURBITIDES
Authors: Sergiou S. , Beckers A. , Geraga M. , Papatheodorou G. , Iliopoulos I. , Papaefthymiou H.
Published: July 2017

The Corinth rift is counted among the most active tectonic grabens in the world, with extension rates up to 15 mm/yr (Western part). These high extension rates are associated with very strong seismic events that are, occasionally, responsible for submarine mass movements. These movements, their consequential bottom currents, and the differential river-discharging sediment accumulation in the whole gulf, strongly affect the modern marine sedimentary processes. The definition and understanding of these processes is the main aim of this project. This is attempted through via sedimentological, mineral and geochemical analyses on sediment samples from two ~1.1 m long, sediment cores from a WE submarine canyon (10 km long, 3 km wide) that lies in the Western tip of the gulf. The general sedimentation motif reveals the presence of hemipelagic deposits which are occasionally interrupted by sandy turbidites. Occasionally, these turbidites seem to have seismic origin. The sedimentation rates range between 2.57 mm/yr in the western part and 0.67 mm/yr in the eastern part.
PRELIMINARY GEOCHEMICAL AND SEDIMENTOLOGICAL ANALYSIS IN NW CORFU: THE MIOCENE SEDIMENTS IN AGIOS GEORGIOS PAGON
Authors: Tserolas P. , Mpotziolis C. , Maravelis A. , Zelilidis A.
Published: July 2017

A total of 80 samples of the Miocene deposits in Agios Georgios Pagon (NW Corfu) were selected and studied in regard of their geochemical and sedimentological characteristics. Organic content and calcium carbonate measurements were used and combined to investigate the depositional conditions and preliminary source rock potential. TOC analysis presented significant values ranging up to ~3% of organic carbon, with an average of 0,7%, and thus providing a promising basis for further assessment of their source rock potential. Calcium Carbonate measurements presented an average of ~27%. Fluctuations, correlative trends and the combined use of sieve analysis provide insights and alterations in the depositional conditions. The studied strata are part of an ongoing investigation throughout the Miocene to Pliocene sediment accumulations in Corfu, from Lefkimmi in the SW part to Agios Stefanos to the NW. The depositional conditions and source rock potential should provide new insights in understanding the geotectonic processes and basin development in the western margin of the Hellenic Fold and Thrust Belt.
COSEISMIC DEFORMATION AND SEISMIC FAULT OF THE 17 NOVEMBER 2015 M=6.5 EARTHQUAKE, LEFKADA ISLAND
Authors: Ganas Ath. , Briole P. , Melgar D. , Bozionelos G. , Valkaniotis S. , Avallone A. , Papathanassiou G. , Mendonidis E. , Elias P.
Published: July 2017

On November 17, 2015 a strong, shallow earthquake, Mw 6.5, occurred on the island of Lefkada along a strike-slip fault with right-lateral sense of slip. The event triggered widespread environmental effects that were mainly reported at the south and western part of the island while moving towards the eastern part, the intensity and severity of these earthquake-induced deformations were decreased. Relocation of seismicity and inversion of geodetic data suggests that the seismic fault runs parallel to the west coast of Lefkada, along the Aegean - Apulia plate boundary. The earthquake measured Mw=6.5 using the PGD relation of Melgar et al (2015, GRL). The fault plane strikes N20±5°E and dips to east with an angle of about 70±5 degrees. Coseismic deformation was measured in the order of tens of centimeters of horizontal motion by continuous GPS stations of NOANET (the NOA GPS network) and by InSAR (Sentinel 1A image pairs). Released interferograms from various groups show a large decorrelation area that extends almost along all the western coast of Lefkada, observation which provides strong support of landsliding. A coseismic slip model was produced from inversion of the ascending InSAR. We have not observed significant vertical motion of the shoreline and this is consistent with the predictions of the model.
SPATIAL SUSCEPTIBILITY OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES TO EARTHQUAKE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS (EEES)
Authors: Minos-Minopoulos D. , Dominey-Howes D. , Pavlopoulos K.
Published: July 2017

The study examines a semi-quantitative indicator based method to assess the spatial susceptibility of archaeological sites to the secondary Earthquake Environmental Effects (EEEs) of ground liquefaction, landslides and tsunami. The method was applied at 16 archaeological sites allowing the identification of the EEEs each site is susceptible to and their prioritization at a national and regional level through the Spatial Susceptibility index (SSi). Results indicate that the majority of the sites are susceptible to at least one Earthquake Environmental Effect. This highlights their contribution to the vulnerability of archaeological sitesto earthquake hazard and the necessity for the integration of spatial susceptibility parameters in vulnerability assessment studies for cultural heritage protection.
GEOENVIROMENTAL EFFECTS OF THE M=6.4 17 NOVEMBER 2015 EARTHQUAKE ON SOUTH LEFKADA, IONIAN SEA, GREECE
Authors: Papathanassiou G. , Ganas A. , Moshou A. , Valkaniotis S.
Published: July 2017

The 17th November Mw=6.4 shallow event occurred along a N20±5°E strike-slip fault with right-lateral sense of slip. The earthquake caused a lot of structural damage to the villages of Agios Petros, Athani, Dragano and Komilio, all located in south Lefkada island. Environmental effects include liquefaction, extensive rock falls and landslides. No surface ruptures were found in the field. Road cracks are interpreted as secondary phenomena of gravitational nature induced by ground shaking. The value of the macroseismic intensity ESI-07 was assessed as VIII-IX. The documentation of the earthquake-induced environmental effects was realized using the Earthquake Geo Survey App. (for Android OS).
EARTHQUAKE TRIGGERING EFFECT SCENARIOS DURING THE 2014 SEQUENCE IN CEPHALONIA AND 2015 EARTHQUAKE IN LEFKADA BROADER AREAS, IONIAN SEA, GREECE
Authors: Sboras S. , Chatzipetros A. , Pavlides S. , Karastathis V. , Papadopoulos G.
Published: July 2017

In this paper we defined the local complex fault system of the Cephalonia three strongest earthquakes (Mw6.1, Mw5.3 and Mw6.0) of the January-February 2014 sequence and the Lefkada mainshock (Mw6.4) on November 17, 2015, in order to investigate the fault interaction i) within the 2014 sequence, ii) between the 2014 sequence and the fault that produced the 2015 Lefkada event, and iii) the cumulative effects of all Cephalonia and Lefkada strong events on other neighbouring faults, by calculating the static stress changes. The Coulomb stress change calculations suggest a complex distribution pattern on most of the cases, with only exceptions the F4 fault (Lefkada earthquake), which seems to be barely loaded with stress after the Cephalonia 2014 events, and the “Assos-Skala” fault, which seems to be stress relieved after all Caphalonia 2014 and Lefkada 2015 events.
THERAPEUTIC MUD OCCURRENCES IN GREECE: MINERALOGICAL AND GEOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF THE SAGIADA MUD (THESPROTIA PREFECTURE)
Authors: Athanassoulis C. , Zaimis S. , Chatziapostolou A. , Agalaniotou S.
Published: July 2017

The current study presents the preliminary results of the mineralogical and geochemical characterization of the Sagiada mud (Prefecture of Thesprotia), which is considered as one of the most representative therapeutic mud occurrences in Greece. This work is part of a bigger project, conducted by IGME (Athens, Greece), for the characterization of the Greek therapeutic mud deposits. The mineralogical composition was determined using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA), optical microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The main mineral phases of the Sagiada mud are quartz, feldspars, clay minerals such as illite, kaolinite, chlorite and vermiculite, and calcite accompanied by minor phases such as halite and pyrite. Traces of muscovite and gypsum were also identified. Geochemical analyses were performed using X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) and Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) for the determination of major and trace element content, respectively. Compared to Spanish peloids and European floodplain sediments, the Sagiada mud reveals an analogue chemical composition.
SIMULATION OF A QUAY WALL FOUNDATION ON AN IMPROVED SEABED. THE EXAMPLE OF THE NEW PORT OF PATRAS
Authors: Botsou I. , Botsou M. , Loupasakis C.
Published: July 2017

The current study examines the possibility of simulating a quay wall foundation on a gravel pile improved seabed by using the finite element method. For this purpose data from the construction of the New Port of Patras were used. The behavior of the construction was simulated by conducting a series of parametric analyses altering the length and the density of the gravel piles as well as the gradient and the volume of the preloading embankment. Important conclusions regarding the safety factor and the deformations rate of the construction were finally extracted. The simulations were conducted by using PLAXIS 2D.
ASSESSMENT OF SEAWATER INTRUSION IN FUSHE KUQE AQUIFER, ALBANIA
Authors: Cenameri S. , Beqiraj A.
Published: July 2017

The Fushë Kuqe costal aquifer is a typical confined alluvial aquifer. The aquifer medium consists of alternating and discontinuous layers of gravel and sand-gravel with and silt-clay impermeable layers which have conditioned its multilayer character. The aquifer recharge occurs mainly through water infiltration from the Mat river in the North, and from Droja river in the South, while its natural discharge proceeds to the Adriatic sea. As from the variation of chloride and TDS content in groundwater, an advancement of sea water intrusion into aquifer fresh water was evidenced. The direction of sea water wedge from coastal southwestern sectors towards the Gorre and Fushe Kuqe where pumping station are located, favors the opinion that it was caused by a decrease of groundwater pressure due to the groundwater pumping. The increase of chloride content in groundwater through time confirms that sea water intrusion towards the fresh aquifer water is still ad-vancing and is caused by both intensification of groundwater pumping for public water supply and by the drilling of artesian private wells.
HYDROGEOCHEMISTRY FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF GROUNDWATER QUALITY OF SPRINGS ON ANDROS: AN ISLAND OF THE CYCLADES COMPLEX, GREECE
Authors: Filippidis F. , Stamatis G. , Mantaloufa I.
Published: July 2017

The paper presents the results of the physicochemical parameters of the springs of Andros which were studied to evaluate the chemistry of the major ions and solute acquisition processes, which control the chemical composition and the suitability of the quality of water for drinking use. Forty two samples were taken for physicochemical analysis almost at the end of the summer period, in September 2014. The Piper plot was used for the hydrogeochemical classification of groundwater which also indicated that the majority of groundwater samples belong to the Ca-Na-HCO3-Cl type. According to the Durov plot the majority of samples, can be positioned in field 2 in which a process of cation exchange is in progress. Also, the HCO3 /(HCO3 +SO4) ratio indicates a weathering process from carbonic acid. In general, the majority of samples can be characterized as potable.
GROUNDWATER RESOURCES ASSESSMENT OF GRANULAR AQUIFERS IN GREECE
Authors: Kallioras A. , Pliakas F. , Marinos P.
Published: July 2017

Sound groundwater resources management is a matter of paramount importance in Circum-Mediterranean, for the ecologic status of the underlying aquifer systems. Freshwater resources in Greece are identified within all types of aquifer formations, however two distinct types are the ones that draw the attention of the scientific and the engineering community; the granular as well as the karst aquifers. This paper describes the groundwater resources potential that are found within granular aquifer formations, in combination with the major environmental threats associated with their exploitation and management.
GROUNDWATER VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT TO SEAWATER INTRUSION THROUGH GIS - BASED GALDIT METHOD. CASE STUDY: ATALANTI COASTAL AQUIFER, CENTRAL GREECE
Authors: Lappas I. , Kallioras A. , Pliakas F. , Rondogianni Th.
Published: July 2017

Groundwater resources assessment has resulted in development of models that help identify the vulnerable zones. This paper presents a GIS-based hydrogeological index, named GALDIT, aiming at the assessment of aquifer vulnerability to seawater intrusion in Atalanti coastal aquifer, Central-Eastern Greece. The above acronym is formed from the most important factors controlling seawater intrusion, that is, four intrinsic hydrogeological parameters, one spatial parameter and one boundary parameter including Groundwater occurrence (aquifer type), Aquifer hydraulic conductivity, depth to groundwater Level above the sea (hydraulic head), Distance from the shore, Impact of seawater intrusion and aquifer’s Thickness. These factors nclude the basic requirements needed to assess the general salinization potential of each hydrogeological setting. Each parameter is evaluated with respect to the other to determine the relative importance of each factor. GALDIT model is described to assess and quantify the significance of vulnerability to seawater intrusion due to excessive groundwater withdrawals. Different thematic maps are prepared for seawater intrusion indicators and overlaid to develop the final vulnerability map. The derived map can be used as a tool for coastal groundwater resources management and areas’ determination of potential saltwater intrusion since the result of GALDIT ndex is classified based on vulnerability rate.
AN ENGINEERING GEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT USING TERRESTRIAL LASER SCANNING FOR THE STABILIZATION OF A VOLCANIC SLOPE IN SANTORINI ISLAND
Authors: Marinos V. , Papathanassiou G. , Kaklis T. , Prountzopoulos G. , Asteriou P. , Pantazis G. , Lambrou E. , Grendas N. , Pavlides S.
Published: July 2017

Η παρούσα έρευνα εστιάζεται στην χρήση επίγειου σαρωτή LiDar στην τεχνικογεωλογική ερμηνεία του φαινομένου των καταπτώσεων και στην αξιολόγηση του βαθμού επικινδυνότητας εκδήλωσης νέων καταπτώσεων σε ηφαιστειακό πρανές της νήσου Σαντορίνης. Στην περιοχή εκτός από την επίγεια σάρωση, εφαρμόστηκαν τοπογραφικές μέθοδοι για την ειδική αποτύπωση των βραχωδών και των κατολισθητικών φαινομένων, και η απεικόνισή τους σε κατάλληλα τοπογραφικά διαγράμματα. Η ανάλυση ευστάθειας και η υποβολή συγκεκριμένων προτάσεων μέτρων αντιστήριξης ή/και ενίσχυσης του πρανούς, όπου έλαβαν χώρα πρόσφατες αστοχίες, αναλύονται σύμφωνα με το τεχνικογεωλογικό μοντέλο της περιοχής αλλά και τις ιδιαιτερότητες της.