Correction Strategy Research Articles

High resolution X-ray phase contrast imaging for non-destructive testing of composite materials

X-ray imaging is widely used in non-destructive testing dedicated to industry, medical or security domain. In aircraft production, the aerospace industry increasingly integrates carbon fibre reinforced polymers (CFRP), which may develop defects from operational wear, like lightning strikes. To robustly characterize density changes resulting from induced lightning damage in CFRP, multilateral shearing interferometry (MLSI) – a phase imaging technique – have been incorporated on a X-ray laboratory bench. Indeed, such method provides higher contrasts than X-ray attenuation imaging for composite materials and brings complementary information of the imaged sample. However, extracting the phase signal requires conditions of the imaging system and algorithmic strategies, which can lead to the emergence of artifacts in phase images. This thesis work involved the characterisation of these artifacts in the context of MLSI applied to X-ray phase imaging, as well as the development of tracking methods and corrective strategies.

Data Assimilation in Chaotic Systems Using Deep Reinforcement Learning

AbstractData assimilation (DA) plays a pivotal role in diverse applications, ranging from weather forecasting to trajectory planning for autonomous vehicles. A prime example is the widely used ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF), which relies on the Kalman filter's linear update equation to correct each of the ensemble forecast member's state with incoming observations. Recent advancements have witnessed the emergence of deep learning approaches in this domain, primarily within a supervised learning framework. However, the adaptability of such models to untrained scenarios remains a challenge. In this study, we introduce a new DA strategy that utilizes reinforcement learning (RL) to apply state corrections using full or partial observations of the state variables. Our investigation focuses on demonstrating this approach to the chaotic Lorenz 63 and 96 systems, where the agent's objective is to maximize the geometric series with terms that are proportional to the negative root‐mean‐squared error (RMSE) between the observations and corresponding forecast states. Consequently, the agent develops a correction strategy, enhancing model forecasts based on available observations. Our strategy employs a stochastic action policy, enabling a Monte Carlo‐based DA framework that relies on randomly sampling the policy to generate an ensemble of assimilated realizations. Numerical results demonstrate that the developed RL algorithm performs favorably when compared to the EnKF. Additionally, we illustrate the agent's capability to assimilate non‐Gaussian observations, addressing one of the limitations of the EnKF.

STRATEGI KOMUNIKASI KONTROL JEJARING KEBIJAKAN DALAM GERAKAN BERSAMA RAKYAT ATASI KAWASAN PADAT KUMUH DAN MISKIN (GEBRAK PAKUMIS) DI KABUPATEN TANGERANG

Housing and settlements have a very fundamental role in the life of the Indonesian people considering the problem that often occurs is the level of housing needs that is not balanced with the level of regional capacity in providing habitable housing. As a result, a residential area will receive a load that exceeds the carrying capacity of its environment and tends to become slum. The problem of settlements is a serious problem because it is feared that it will cause fatal pockets of poverty and then cause various social problems beyond the government's ability to handle and monitor them. The Tangerang Regency government tries to clean up uninhabitable houses through the GEBRAK PAKUMIS Program. The main focus of this program is to improve the water and sanitation sector with a focal point on improving the quality of houses because a poor sanitation system is a major factor in the formation of slum areas. This study aims to analyze and find theoretical answers to the principles of policy networks and obtain new concepts about policy networks. This research uses descriptive qualitative methods, data collection techniques by means of interviews, observation, and documentation. One of the problems that is the basis for the failure of this program is the long procedure. This is something that is feared by residents, because it is considered difficult to be realized. Based on the problems faced by residents as recipients of house renovation assistance, environmental development and community empowerment, the correct communication strategy is a solution to communicate the benefits of the program to the beneficiary residents. Therefore, the communication strategy solution offered in this study is as a stimulant for local government to provide populist socialization to residents in order to bring citizens to ease in taking procedures in this program.

Towards a gapless 1 km fractional snow cover via a data fusion framework

Accurate quantification of snow cover facilitates the prediction of snowmelt runoff, the assessment of freshwater availability, and the analysis of Earth’s energy balance. Existing fractional snow cover (FSC) data, however, often suffer from limitations such as spatial and temporal gaps, compromised accuracy, and coarse spatial resolution. These limitations significantly hinder the ability to monitor snow cover dynamics effectively. To address these formidable challenges, this study introduces a novel data fusion framework specifically designed to generate high-resolution (1 km) daily FSC estimation across vast regions like North America, regardless of weather conditions. It achieved this by effectively integrating the complementary spatiotemporal characteristics of both coarse- and fine-resolution FSC data through a multi-stage processing pipeline. This pipeline incorporates innovative strategies for bias correction, gap filling, and consideration of dynamic characteristics of snow cover, ultimately leading to high accuracy and high spatiotemporal completeness in the fused FSC data. The accuracy of the fused FSC data was thoroughly evaluated over the study period (September 2015 to May 2016), demonstrating excellent consistency with independent datasets, including Landsat-derived FSC (total 24 scenes; RMSE=6.8–18.9 %) and ground-based snow observations (14,350 stations). Notably, the fused data outperforms the widely used Interactive Multi-sensor Snow and Ice Mapping System (IMS) daily snow cover extent data in overall accuracy (0.92 vs. 0.91), F1_score (0.86 vs. 0.83), and Kappa coefficient (0.80 vs. 0.77). Furthermore, the fused FSC data exhibits superior performance in accurately capturing the intricate daily snow cover dynamics compared to IMS data, as confirmed by superior agreement with ground-based observations in four snow-cover phenology metrics. In conclusion, the proposed data fusion framework offers a significant advancement in snow cover monitoring by generating high-accuracy, spatiotemporally complete daily FSC maps that effectively capture the spatial and temporal variability of snow cover. These FSC datasets hold substantial value for climate projections, hydrological studies, and water management at both global and regional scales.

Pregnancy and Diabetes in Turin: Lights and Shadows from Real Life Data.

From 2021, PSDTA for women with pregnancy complicated by diabetes will be active in the ASL city of Turin; given the city's increasing multiculturalism, we decided to evaluate from this point of view the patients who entered this pathway. Data on women from 1/10/2022 to 30/09/2023 were collected from the computerized medical record. Total patients: 304, Type of diabetes: T1D 3%; MODY < 1%; T2D 4% Diabetes manifested in pregnancy (DMIP) 2%, GDM 90%, Foreigners prevalence: GDM: 67%, T2D%, T1D: Foreign 11%, Planned vs. neglected pregnancies: GDM 47% vs 18%, T2D 31% vs 32%, DMIP 28% vs 50%, T1D: 66% vs 11%, Therapy: GDM: insulin 31% (multi-injective <30%), metformin 5%, T2D: insulin 100% (multi-injective 68%, metformin in 20%); continuous glycemic sensor in 48%, DMIP: insulin 50% (multi-injective 50%), T1D: multi-injective therapy 33%; pump and glycemic sensor 33%; integrated sensor-micro-infuser system 33%. In the aspect of ISTAT data indicating that for northern Italy, a foreign origin for 26% of mothers, our population is "unbalanced" between GDM, T2D, and DMIP on one side and T1D on the other. The higher percentage of foreigners in the GDM group could be attributable to the higher share of Italian women opting for private practice, conversely, the "missing" share of foreign women with T1D is more difficult to interpret. Unplanned or even neglected pregnancies are significant in women with GDM and DMIP (who are mostly foreign). If these data are confirmed in other Italian realities, corrective strategies need to be planned.

Asymptomatic Empty Sella Syndrome: A "New" Hypothalamic Pathology or Paraphysiological Variant.

The term empty sella refers to a shrunken or displaced (by a subarachnoid diverticulum) pituitary gland. It can be primary (genetically determined) or secondary (due to trauma/surgery/radiation). It has been reported that 50% of patients are asymptomatic, and others experience symptoms, such as headache, hypertension, or visual field defects. Few cases have an empty sella syndrome, i.e., lacking functional pituitary hormones. Diagnosis is made through NMR or CT. If asymptomatic, this condition requires no treatment; otherwise, empty sella syndrome needs hormonal replacement therapy. We examined the case of asymptomatic empty sella syndrome. A 67-year-old female patient was admitted for dilatative cardiomyopathy. She had a past medical history of arterial hypertension and right ICA endovascular repair. Blood tests demonstrated hypothyroidism, hypoadrenalism, and GH deficiency, without any signs or symptoms. NRM confirmed an empty sella, hence replacement therapy with levothyroxine and cortisone acetate was started. During a follow-up evaluation, we discovered that this biochemical profile of the patient had been known for more than a decade and never treated. Despite being exposed to stress conditions, vascular surgery and angiography, she never developed an adrenal crisis, nor has she ever been symptomatic for severe hypothyroidism. Hormonal replacement therapy was performed. The described clinical scenario is rare, as usually, empty sella syndrome presents with signs of hormone deficiency, even if asymptomatic cases have been described. Some authors suggest considering it as a hypothalamic dysfunction requiring treatment; others identify it as a paraphysiological variant. However, more cases are needed to establish a correct therapeutic strategy for these patients.

Enhancing Ship Maintenance Management in Maritime Engineering Education: Insights from Vocational Internships

This research investigates ship maintenance management within the context of vocational education in maritime engineering, focusing on the experiences of senior students during internships in port and shipping management industries. Utilising qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions, the study explores the practical application of theoretical knowledge in preventive, corrective, and proactive maintenance strategies. Seven participants from a shipping vocational school in Jakarta provided insights into methodologies, challenges, and educational outcomes in ship maintenance. Key findings highlight the effectiveness of preventive maintenance in enhancing operational reliability and reducing downtime, despite challenges such as resource constraints and operational disruptions. Recommendations include curriculum enhancements to integrate advanced training in predictive maintenance technologies and promote sustainable practices. The research underscores the importance of vocational education in preparing future maritime engineers for industry demands and advancing sustainable practices in maritime transportation.

Analysis of Oral English Errors and Correction Strategies for Junior Middle School Students

Analysis of Oral English Errors and Correction Strategies for Junior Middle School Students

Artificial intelligence-based joint attenuation and scatter correction strategies for multi-tracer total-body PET

BackgroundLow-dose ungated CT is commonly used for total-body PET attenuation and scatter correction (ASC). However, CT-based ASC (CT-ASC) is limited by radiation dose risks of CT examinations, propagation of CT-based artifacts and potential mismatches between PET and CT. We demonstrate the feasibility of direct ASC for multi-tracer total-body PET in the image domain.MethodsClinical uEXPLORER total-body PET/CT datasets of [18F]FDG (N = 52), [18F]FAPI (N = 46) and [68Ga]FAPI (N = 60) were retrospectively enrolled in this study. We developed an improved 3D conditional generative adversarial network (cGAN) to directly estimate attenuation and scatter-corrected PET images from non-attenuation and scatter-corrected (NASC) PET images. The feasibility of the proposed 3D cGAN-based ASC was validated using four training strategies: (1) Paired 3D NASC and CT-ASC PET images from three tracers were pooled into one centralized server (CZ-ASC). (2) Paired 3D NASC and CT-ASC PET images from each tracer were individually used (DL-ASC). (3) Paired NASC and CT-ASC PET images from one tracer ([18F]FDG) were used to train the networks, while the other two tracers were used for testing without fine-tuning (NFT-ASC). (4) The pre-trained networks of (3) were fine-tuned with two other tracers individually (FT-ASC). We trained all networks in fivefold cross-validation. The performance of all ASC methods was evaluated by qualitative and quantitative metrics using CT-ASC as the reference.ResultsCZ-ASC, DL-ASC and FT-ASC showed comparable visual quality with CT-ASC for all tracers. CZ-ASC and DL-ASC resulted in a normalized mean absolute error (NMAE) of 8.51 ± 7.32% versus 7.36 ± 6.77% (p < 0.05), outperforming NASC (p < 0.0001) in [18F]FDG dataset. CZ-ASC, FT-ASC and DL-ASC led to NMAE of 6.44 ± 7.02%, 6.55 ± 5.89%, and 7.25 ± 6.33% in [18F]FAPI dataset, and NMAE of 5.53 ± 3.99%, 5.60 ± 4.02%, and 5.68 ± 4.12% in [68Ga]FAPI dataset, respectively. CZ-ASC, FT-ASC and DL-ASC were superior to NASC (p < 0.0001) and NFT-ASC (p < 0.0001) in terms of NMAE results.ConclusionsCZ-ASC, DL-ASC and FT-ASC demonstrated the feasibility of providing accurate and robust ASC for multi-tracer total-body PET, thereby reducing the radiation hazards to patients from redundant CT examinations. CZ-ASC and FT-ASC could outperform DL-ASC for cross-tracer total-body PET AC.

Rapid and Near-Analytical Planning Method for Entry Trajectory under Time and Full-State Constraints

A rapid trajectory-planning method based on an analytical predictor–corrector design of drag acceleration profile and a bank-reversal logic based on double-stage adaptive adjustment is proposed to solve the entry issue under time and full-state constraints. First, an analytical predictor–corrector algorithm is used to design the profile parameters to satisfy the terminal of altitude, velocity, range, time, and flight-path angle constraints. Subsequently, an adaptive lateral planning algorithm based on heading adjustment and maintenance is proposed to achieve the flight stage adaptive division and determination of the bank-reversal point, thereby satisfying the terminal position and heading angle constraints. Concurrently, a rapid quantification method is proposed for the adjustable capacity boundary of the terminal heading angle. On this basis, a range-and-time correction strategy is designed to achieve high precision and the rapid generation of a three-degree-of-freedom entry trajectory under large-scale lateral maneuvering. The simulation results demonstrated that compared with the existing methods, the proposed method can adaptively divide flight stages, ensuring better multitask applicability and higher computational efficiency.

GABA levels decline with age: A longitudinal study

Abstract One factor that might contribute to functional deterioration in healthy older adults is a decline in the brain’s major inhibitory neurotransmitter, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Previous studies have reported mixed results regarding whether GABA declines in healthy aging. These previous studies were cross-sectional and therefore cannot provide insight into GABA changes over time within aging individuals. Furthermore, aging is associated with gray and white matter atrophy that may confound age-related differences in GABA. In the present study, we utilized a repeated-measures, longitudinal design and MR spectroscopy to measure GABA levels in bilateral auditory, sensorimotor, and ventrovisual voxels of interest (VOI) in 30 healthy older adults at two time points a few years apart. Furthermore, we applied two of the most common tissue correction strategies to control for the effects of tissue composition on GABA estimates. Results from mixed-effects models showed that longitudinal change in age is a significant predictor of tissue-corrected longitudinal change in GABA levels: as age increases, GABA declines. In contrast, there was no cross-sectional effect of age on GABA in our sample (e.g., the oldest old did not have lower GABA levels than the youngest old). In conclusion, results from this study provide support for within-person, age-related declines in GABA over time, even after controlling for tissue composition.

Establishing the Interrelations of the Laboratory Parameters in the Gut-Kidney Axis in Cats with Signs of Triple Phosphate Urolithiasis

Introduction. Efficient treatment of the feline urolithiasis much depends on the early diagnosis of the disease, however, the diagnostic algorithm of this type of pathology is extremely poor due to the various reasons, in particular, it does not take into account the interrelations in the gut-kidney axis. Analysis of the state of gastrointestinal tract functioning and the composition of the gut microbiota can improve the potential of diagnosing the urolithiasis, predict the risk, improve the prognosis and choose the correct treatment strategy. The aim of this publication is to establish the interrelations of the laboratory parameters in the gut-kidney axis in cats with struvite urolithiasis with the signs of cystolithiasis.Materials and Methods. The objects of the research were the outbred cats with the triple phosphate urolithiasis with the signs of cystolithiasis: 1st experimental group — females; 2nd experimental group — neutered males; the control group — clinically healthy animals of both sexes. The laboratory and clinical examinations of sick animals included: ultrasonography of abdominal organs; macroscopic and biochemical urine tests; microscopy of urine sediment and urine culture test without determination of antibiotic sensitivity; macroscopic, microscopic and simple chemical examinations of freshly excreted feces; bacteriological culture test of rectal flushes without determination of antibiotic sensitivity.Results. In the urine of cats of the experimental groups, under the activity of gram-negative microorganisms Escherichia coli (0.03±0.01×106 CFU (colony forming units) and 1.00±0.03×106 CFU) and gram-positive microorganisms Staphilococcus intermedius (1.05±0.07×106 CFU and 1.00±0.08×107 CFU) there were recorded within the microscope field of view: alkalization, development of hypersthenuria, proteinuria, hypercalciuria, hematuria, including microhematuria and leukocyturia, crystalluria. The results of coprological examinations in sick cats indicated the presence of stercobilin, well-digested muscle fibres, undigested and digested cellulose, extracellular and intracellular starch, as well as impurities of non-food origin (wool). The data of microbiological examinations of feces indicated the growth of Escherichia coli (1.00±0.05×105 CFU and 1.04±0.08×107 CFU). Along with the cystolytiasis, the acoustic shadowing of the gastrointestinal tract organs in the experimental animals revealed the hyperechogenicity of liver capsule and parenchyma and heterogeneity of the pattern.Discussion and Conclusion. The revealed character of the laboratory parameter changes in the experimental animals, such as the increase of protein and creatinine levels in urine and growth of Escherichia coli in feces, proved the existence of the pathogenetic relationship between the urogenital tract lesion caused by the gram-negative microorganisms and the gut microbiota in the gut-kidney axis. The results of our study of the sick animals’ urine indicated on the infection of the urogenital tract with the urease-producing microorganisms, which led to the alkalization of urine and formation of the infection struvite stones. Urolithiasis, in turn, had an impact on the gut microbiome due to the topographic proximity of the urogenital and gastrointestinal tracts: examination of feces in cats of the experimental group had confirmed the disorder of gastrointestinal tract functioning due to dysbiotic processes in the large intestine.

Integrated optimization of truck appointment quotas and container relocations for multiple blocks considering transshipment containers handling

The container terminal is a crucial transshipment node in the sea and land cargo transport supply chain, and the efficiency of container collection and distribution has always been a research hotspot. In this paper, we consider the impact of transshipment containers resulting from various uncertainties and integrate the operations of external truck pickups with the handling of transshipment containers in the import yard of the container terminal. In light of the varying number of transshipment containers and transit times for different blocks, coupled with the unpredictable arrival order of external trucks leading to the unknown number of relocations, it is proposed to dynamically adjust the upper limit of the appointed quota for each block. We establish a two stage mixed integer programming model for the truck appointment quota and the block relocation problem. The objective functions aim to minimize the number of relocations and minimize the number of yard crane moves under the maximal appointment quota, respectively. This model is utilized for dynamically regulating the upper limit of the appointed quota for each block and determining the time intervals for picking up the appointed and transshipment containers, along with the yard crane scheduling scheme. The problem is solved using CPLEX and the improved variable neighborhood search algorithm (IVNS). The IVNS incorporates the correction strategy, decoding strategy, and scheduling rules designed to align closely with the characteristics of the problem. Through scheme comparison and sensitivity analysis, five management insights are proposed for terminals. Experimental results demonstrate that the approach presented in this paper effectively enhances the utilization efficiency of yard cranes, reduces yard congestion, and yields benefits for both terminals and trucking companies.

Misinformation or hard to tell? An eye-tracking study to investigate the effects of food crisis misinformation on social media engagement

Visual misinformation about ongoing contaminated food crises poses a significant threat to organizational well-being and public health, particularly when people share incorrect images on social media. Corrective responses and highly credible media sources as effective strategies geared toward combating crisis misinformation. Extending Lewandowsky and colleagues’ (2012) corrective strategies for debunking misinformation, the concept of visual misinformation, cognitive process, and the theory of social sharing of emotion, this study aims to advance research on visual misinformation in public relations and crisis communication. A 2 (image veracity: incorrect vs. true) x 2 (corrective strategy: simple rebuttal vs. simple rebuttal + fact elaboration) x 2 (source credibility: high vs. low) between-subjects eye-tracking experiment was conducted to test the effects of these features on visual attention and intention to share. Additionally, we explored the mediation effects of emotional surprise and perceived crisis severity on sharing posts. Results showed visual cues (e.g., images and sources) and textual cues (e.g., corrective strategies) led to different allocations of visual attention. We found visual attention significantly mediated the effects of combined corrective messages on sharing. Additionally, feeling surprised also significantly mediated the effects of messages with low credible sources on sharing. This study provides insights into advancing crisis communication theory and offers evidence-based recommendations for health organizations and practitioners to better fight against food crisis misinformation.

The functional lumen imaging probe contractile response pattern is the best predictor of botulinum toxin response in esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction.

Esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) is a heterogenous disorder in which the correct management strategy is unclear. We assessed whether functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) topography data could select EGJOO, which would benefit from lower esophageal sphincter Botulinum toxin (Botox) injection. This was a single-center prospective study of adult patients meeting Chicago Classification (CC) v3.0 criteria for EGJOO. We assessed differences in pretreatment physiologic measurements on high-resolution manometry (HRM) and FLIP and other relevant clinical variables in predicting Botox response (>50% in BEDQ at 2 months). Sixty-nine patients were included (ages 33-90, 73.9% female). Of these, 42 (61%) were Botox responders. Majority of physiologic measures on HRM and FLIP and esophageal emptying were not different based on Botox response. However, a spastic-reactive (SR) FLIP contractile response (CR) pattern predicted a Botox response with OR 25.6 (CI 2.9-229.6) when compared to antegrade FLIP CR; and OR for impaired-disordered/absent CR was 22.5 (CI 2.5-206.7). Logistic regression model using backward elimination (p value = 0.0001, AUC 0.79) showed that a SRCR or IDCR/absent response and the upright IRP predicted Botox response. Response rates in tiered diagnostic groups were: (i) CCv3.0 EGJOO (60.9%), (ii) CCv4.0 EGJOO (73.1%), (iii) CCv4.0 + FLIP REO (80%), (iv) CCv4.0, FLIP REO, and abnormal FLIP CR (84.2%), and (v) CCv4.0, FLIP REO, and SR FLIP CR (90%). FLIP helps identify patients with EGJOO who are likely to response to LES Botox therapy. An abnormal FLIP contractile response pattern is the single-most important predictor of a Botox response.

Ict-Based Teaching Strategies in Fashion Design in Shaanxi Province, China

With the rapid development of modern technology, clothing design teaching is facing more and more challenges and opportunities, which have also become more diverse and intelligent. In the context of the modern teaching era, traditional teaching models are no longer able to meet the needs of students and the market. Therefore, teachers must seek new teaching strategies to adapt to this era. How to adopt correct teaching strategies to improve students' learning effectiveness and practical ability has become an important issue that teachers need to consider. This project will study ICT-based teaching strategies in fashion design to help teachers better teach students.

Should the pelvis be included? An analysis of distal junctional failure risk factors in correcting adult spinal deformity in women with fusion to L5.

To identify the risk factors for distal junctional failure (DJF) in women treated for adult spine deformity with fusion to L5 and to highlight the significance of preoperative assessment, surgical decision-making, and postoperative care. This is a retrospective study of data collected prospectively on the local institutional spine surgery registry (2016-2021). All patients, women older than 18 years, with a diagnosis of adult spine deformity who underwent long posterior instrumentation to L5 and had a minimum of 2-years follow-up were included in the study (two groups: with or without DJF). Demographic and radiographic data, corrective strategy, preoperative level of degeneration at L5/S1 and GAP score were compared between the two groups. Forty-eight patients (n = 48) satisfied eligibility criteria. At two-years follow-up, nine patients (18,7%) developed a DJF that required surgical revision. Thirty-nine patients did not present distal junctional complications. Patients with or without DJF showed significant differences in terms of preoperative spinopelvic parameters (PT: 28°± 6° vs. 23°± 9°, p-value 0.05; DJF group vs. not DJF) and degeneration of L5-S1 (Pfirmann grade L5-S1 disc 3.7 ± 1.0 vs. 2.6 ± 0.8, p-value 0.001; DJF group vs. not DJF) (L5-S1 Facet joint Osteoarthritis 3.1 ± 0.8 vs.2.4 ± 0.8, p-value 0.023; DJF group vs. not DJF). DJF following spinal deformity correction surgery is influenced by a combination of patient-related, surgical and implant-related factors. Fusion construct length, preoperative and postoperative sagittal alignment and the grade of degeneration of the distal disc have been identified as significant risk factors. Surgeons should carefully evaluate these factors and employ appropriate strategies.

Evaluating and classifying market alternatives using the CAPMA technique to assess potential export volume: an application for Turkey’s fig exports

PurposeAppropriate target market selection and classification are complex, time-consuming, and strategically important management decisions. The current study proposes and implements a new systematic approach that evaluates and ranks alternative markets’ potential to increase the export volume of Turkey’s fig exports.Design/methodology/approachThe classification approach of potential market alternatives (CAPMA) method, which was developed to evaluate, compare, and classify alternative markets according to their potential, was used in this study. CAPMA, an objective decision-making technique, is based on calculating the classification coefficient and classifying the alternatives into four dimensions, taking this coefficient into consideration. In the current study, 25 alternative markets were analysed on the basis of four evaluation criteria and classified into four dimensions according to their potential to increase export volume.FindingsAccording to the application results, alternative markets with the greatest potential to increase export volume were identified as the United States of America (USA), Netherlands, China, and Spain. The USA has the greatest potential for expansion of export volume. By implementing correct and effective marketing strategies, fig export volume has the potential to reach very high levels.Originality/valueThe study’s results on alternative markets for fig exports were categorized, countries with greater potential to increase export volume were identified, and findings that could contribute to the development of the sector were obtained. The approach proposed in the current research can be used to determine the target market of many other products, especially agricultural products, whose production is concentrated within a specific geography.

Unravelling the identity of lake ecotype of brown trout (Salmo trutta) in Slovenia: genetic insights and conservation implications

Abstract The genetic identity and conservation status of lake ecotype of brown trout (Salmo trutta) populations in Slovenia’s Alpine lakes Bled and Bohinj have been subjected to changes due to historical stocking practices. We aimed to evaluate the genetic differentiation and origins of these populations to advise for correct conservation strategies. Using microsatellite and mitochondrial DNA analysis on 365 trout specimens, we explored the genetic diversity and structure of these populations, comparing them with potential originators. Results revealed distinct genetic profiles between Bled and Bohinj lake trout, with Bohinj lake trout closely aligned with the native Danubian lineage and Bled lake trout showing a hybrid composition, significantly influenced by hatchery-introduced Atlantic lineage strains. The genetic distinction between these populations underscores the complexity of their conservation, showcasing the impact of human-mediated introductions on natural populations. The urgent need for conservation measures to preserve the Bohinj population’s native genetic pool is highlighted, underlining the must to prevent the transfer of individuals from Lake Bled or elsewhere and to reconsider stocking practises in order to prevent further genetic dilution of these iconic European lake dwellers.

Refraction dynamics in schoolchildren with congenital partial atrophy of the optic nerve over a ten-year observation period

Introduction. Optic nerve atrophy is a degenerative condition and a prevalent cause of visual impairment, including in children. Data on refractogenesis in schoolchildren with partial atrophy of the optic nerve (PAON) are scarce, with existing literature focusing primarily on the correction of low vision associated with this disorder. Purpose: to assess the refraction dynamics in schoolchildren with congenital PAON over a ten-year observation period.Materials and methods. We conducted a retrospective analysis of refraction changes over a decade among three groups: 1) 47 schoolchildren with PAON, 2) 49 schoolchildren with ametropia without PAON, and 3) 49 schoolchildren without any ophthalmopathology.Results. All groups exhibited a trend towards myopization (р &lt; 0.001). In groups with myopic and emmetropic refractions (without ophthalmopathology at the start), either the emergence or an increase in myopic refraction was noted. In hypermetropic children, a gradual decrease towards emmetropic refraction or a shift to myopic refraction was observed. For myopic schoolchildren using contact lenses and perifocal glasses from the ages of 11–13, myopia progression stabilized, particularly with perifocal optical correction (р &lt; 0.01). Despite refractive changes during the school years, regular courses of functional treatment and accommodation training led to a slight improvement in visual acuity in PAON patients (by an average of 0.05 ± 0.01 (p = 0.001) in myopes and 0.06 ± 0.01 (р &lt; 0.001) in hypermetropes) and a significant increase in visual acuity in children with normal fundus ametropia (by an average of 0.14 ± 0.02 (р &lt; 0.001) in myopes and 0.18 ± 0.02 (р &lt; 0.001) in hypermetropes).Conclusion. The ten-year observation demonstrates a myopization trend in all groups of schoolchildren, which holds particular relevance for those with PAON due to their inherently lower visual acuity. An optimal optical correction strategy, employing modern myopia control measures in tandem with regular functional treatment and accommodation training, is essential for a health-preserving educational approach in schoolchildren with PAON.