Decision Factors Research Articles

Isolated Fracture of the Greater Tuberosity: Prediction of Superior and Posterior Fracture Displacement on Plain Radiographs.

Isolated fractures of the greater tuberosity represent up to 20% of all proximal humeral fractures. Conservative and surgical treatment strategies are reported. Fracture displacement on radiographs is a key factor in treatment decisions, but the accuracy of measurement methods can limit this process. This study aimed to (Aim I) assess the inter- and intraobserver reliability of established radiographic measurements of fracture displacement and (Aims II/III) determine if these measurements can predict superior, posterior, or combined superior + posterior fracture displacement quantified on CT scans in a patient cohort. Forty-nine cases of isolated greater tuberosity fractures with complete radiographs and CT scans were analyzed. (Aim I) Displacement was measured on radiographs in millimeters as superior ('sup') and lateral ('lat') displacement, along with Mutch's superior ratio ('sGT'), anterior/posterior ratio ('apGT'), and Nyffeler's impingement index ('I-Ind'). Reliability was assessed by three independent observers. (Aim II) A humerus saw-bone model with predefined superior, posterior, and combined fracture displacements was used to validate a CT-based measurement technique. (Aim III) This CT-based method was applied to patient CT scans, and linear regression was used to test if radiographic measurements predicted the CT-measured displacements. (Aim I) Inter- and intraobserver reliability was excellent for 'I-Ind' (inter 0.98/intra 0.94), good-excellent for 'lat' (0.82/0.76) and 'sGT' (0.75/0.94), and moderate for 'sup' (0.73/0.66) and 'apGT' (0.64/0.49). (Aim II) The CT-based technique accurately measured superior (R2=0.99), posterior (R2=0.99), and combined (R2=0.99) displacement. (Aim III) Patient CT scans showed mean displacement of 3.3±2.5 mm superior, 8.4±5.6 mm posterior, and 11.6±7 mm combined. Superior displacement correlated with 'sup' (p<0.001), posterior with 'lat' (p<0.001), 'apGT' (p=0.004), 'I-Ind' (p=0.048), and combined displacement with 'lat' (p<0.001) and 'apGT' (p=0.006). In fractures displaced ≥5mm, 'sup' (p=0.002) correlated with superior, 'lat' (p=0.003) and 'I-Ind' (p=0.049) with posterior, and 'lat' (p<0.001) with combined displacement. The CT-based technique accurately measured fragment displacement in the saw-bone model. For fractures with ≥5mm displacement, 'lat' was the best predictor of combined displacement (interobserver reliability: 0.82-0.94). However, in the reported cohort, 'lat' underestimated the "true" fragment displacement. Therefore, in 'lat' measurements ≥ 3mm, a CT scan for quantification of fragment displacement should be considered. However, these findings must be confirmed in bigger patient populations before clinical translation.

Triage knowledge, perceived skills, and associated factors among nurses working in adult emergency departments of selected public hospitals in Addis-Ababa, Ethiopia, 2023: multicenter cross-sectional study.

Triage is an essential function in the emergency department. Knowledge of nurses working in triage has been cited as an influential factor in triage decision-making. As there are increased numbers of clients with life-threatening traumatic injuries and medical patients in the emergency department in Addis-Ababa, triage knowledge and skill are essential competencies required for the nurses working in the emergency department. To assess nurses' knowledge and perceived skills towards triage and associated factors among nurses working in the adult emergency department of selected public hospitals in Addis-Ababa, Ethiopia, 2023. A multicentre cross-sectional study design was used. Three hospitals were purposefully selected. A census sampling technique was used to obtain the required sample size. Data was collected by an open data kit (ODK) version 2022.1.2. Then, it was exported to SPSS version 27 for final analysis. Bivariate analysis at a P-value of 0.25 and multivariable analysis at a P-value of 0.05 were applied. Results were presented using tables, figures, and texts. A total of 384 participants were included in this study. The proportions of poor triage knowledge and perceived poor triage skills among nurses were 58.1 and 50.3%, respectively. Educational level, triage experience, training experience, and the availability of triage equipment were significant predictors of triage knowledge and perceived triage skill, respectively. The triage knowledge and skill levels were found to be low. As nurses' knowledge about triage is a key tool in triage decision-making, there is a need to improve nurses' knowledge and skills in triaging at the ED.

Multi-factor evaluation of clustering methods for e-commerce application

This research aimed to investigate the application of Vlse Kriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) multi-criteria decision-making to select the optimal clustering for e-commerce customer segmentation. In this context, clustering as an unsupervised machine learning method offered a way to overcome the limitations of traditional grouping, particularly by providing the ability to capture the diverse needs of consumers. A total of five different clustering methods were considered based on the behavioral data of e-commerce customers. Even though the analyzed algorithms were well-known and widely used, the comprehensive and multidirectional comparison was not trivial. Selected approaches were evaluated on the basis of twelve indicators (decision criteria), divided into four characteristics that take into account both the out-of-context aspects of clustering and the requirements arising from the context of using the clustering results. The results showed consistent outcomes from both analyzed Multi-Criteria Decision Methods, with some notable differences. The methods obtained the same ranking of the top three clustering algorithms (K-median - BIRCH - K-means). However, the TOPSIS and VIKOR sensitivity analysis recommended K-means in 87% of the cases and 60% of the variants verified, respectively. The parameterization of the decision factors had a significant impact on the final ranking of clustering options. This research demonstrated the practical application of the decision methods in selecting the best clustering for multivariate user interfaces to improve personalization in e-commerce.

Channel preferences: Unveiling omnichannel behavior in sports and leisure product purchases

Abstract Current customer segmentations in omnichannel retail are based on channel usage and tend to be rather descriptive. In comparison, this research focuses on the role of “need for touch” (NFT) and channel preferences (attractiveness, appropriateness, satisfactoriness) introduced as antecedents to channel choice. The aim of this research was to develop a predictive model of omnichannel purchase behaviour and use its results to identify customer segments in the so far under-researched sports and leisure category, where the key decision factor of NFT seems to dominate when considering information and purchase options. We have examined its role and incorporated it as an exogenous variable and channel preferences as mediating variables in a SEM model to predict omnichannel purchase behaviour. Using the latent scores of channel preferences, we performed a cluster analysis and introduced various segments. In the proposed structural model preferences towards the information channel and the purchase channel serve as key mediators. Webrooming behaviour is negatively related to offline search channel preference, but showrooming is positively related to it. Meanwhile, webrooming behaviour is positively related to offline shopping channel preference, but showrooming is negatively related to it. Competitive mediation results indicate cross-channel synergies and complementary mediation results point out lock-in effects. Six customer segments were identified, and we found significant differences in their shopping behaviour. Lock-in effect arises in the case of online information enthusiasts and online shopping enthusiasts. While in the case of the webrooming-oriented cluster, offline shopping was more appropriate and satisfactory, and positive cross-channel synergies appeared to be prevalent.

An Indian multicentre real-world study on long-term quality of life outcomes following bariatric surgery.

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) on Quality of Life (QoL) in Indian patients with obesity over 10 years. A retrospective chart review was conducted at 11 centres for individuals with MBS between February 2013 and May 2022. Patient medical records provided the source of de-identified data. Data from 2132 individuals with a mean age of 43.28 ± 11.96 years was analysed. There were 37.43% men and 62.57% females in the study population. The study population had a mean preoperative body mass index (BMI) of 45.71 ± 10.38 kg/m2. The Bariatric Analysis and Reporting Outcome System (BAROS) scoring method showed a higher overall QoL score throughout all follow-up periods, with 'very good' outcomes at one, three and 7 years and 'good' outcomes at 5 and 10 years. Improvements in QoL were associated with a substantial improvement (p < .01) in BMI at every follow-up time point. Following MBS, individuals with obesity exhibited a substantial and long-term improvement in their overall QoL for up to 10 years. This study presents Indian data on QoL, which is considered one of the most important decision-making factors for or against an intervention.

“Comprehensive Analysis of Factors Influencing Recurrence and Survival in Glioblastoma: Implications for Treatment Strategies”: A Single Center Study

Glioblastoma is a highly aggressive malignancy affecting the brain and central nervous system. It is the most common malignant primary brain tumor, yet its prognosis remains poor. Median survival typically ranges from around 13 months with standard treatment to up to 19.9 months in some recent clinical trials. Despite advances in treatment, the aggressive nature of glioblastoma continues to present significant challenges for improving patient outcomes. This study aimed to analyze various biological, radiological, and molecular factors associated with glioblastoma recurrence and to estimate survival outcomes. A total of 104 glioblastoma patients diagnosed between January 2017 and September 2022 were included. Patient demographics, treatment received, and molecular characteristics were obtained from the Electronic Patient Record (EPR). Tumor molecular characteristics were analyzed using the OnkoSight Advanced CNS NGS panel. Statistical analyses were performed to develop a prognostic model for glioblastoma recurrence and estimate survival rates. Among the patients, 65.4% had no recurrence, with a mean age of 63 years. No gender or BMI differences were observed, but ages &lt;60 years were associated with recurrence. Radiological findings showed no significant differences in tumor size, necrosis, site, or focality. In multivariate analysis, the female gender, obesity, old age (&gt;60 years), or bifocal tumors were associated with decreased glioblastoma recurrence. However, factors like tumor site, size, necrosis, MGMT promoter methylation, and EGFR alteration showed no significant association with recurrence. Median survival was 12 months, with older age significantly associated with shorter survival. Tumor sizes &gt;4 cm showed shorter survival trends but not statistically significantly. Patients who lived longer experienced more tumor recurrence incidents. Standard or non-standard treatments were associated with longer median survival compared to no treatment. Our findings provide insights into factors influencing glioblastoma recurrence and survival. Age, gender, and tumor characteristics play pivotal roles in recurrence. Understanding these factors could aid in optimizing treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes. However, further multicentric investigations are needed to validate these findings. This study emphasizes the importance of considering biological and radiological factors in clinical decision-making for glioblastoma cases.

Assessing the Predictive Value of the SAMe-TT2R2 Score for Poor Anticoagulation Control in a Diverse Ethnic Population.

Introduction: In Asian countries, warfarin is still widely used for stroke prevention in non-valvular atrial fibrillation compared to non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) due to its affordability. A tool such as the SAMe-TT2R2 is needed to determine the probability of achieving and maintaining good anticoagulation control with warfarin therapy. However, it requires validation in the Malaysian cohort. Therefore, the objective of our study is to validate the SAMe-TT2R2 score in predicting poor anticoagulation control in Malaysia. A time in therapeutic range (TTR) < 65% was used to determine poor anticoagulation control. Method: This retrospective cohort study was conducted from July 2022 to July 2023. Patients were enrolled in 2020 from 49 facilities located across Malaysia resulting in a total of 957 included patients. TTR was calculated using Roseendaal's method. Results: The mean (SD) TTR and SAMe-TT2R2 score in the overall cohort is 65.2% (±24) and 5.5 (±0.9) respectively. Almost half of the population (43.7%) has the SAMe-TT2R2 score of 5. Having diabetes, ischemic heart disease, and increasing HAS-BLED and SAMe-TT2R2 score affects anticoagulation control on univariate analysis. However, after adjusting for demographics and clinical variables on multivariate analysis, only the SAMe-TT2R2 score as a continuous variable persists in predicting poor anticoagulation control. A SAMe-TT2R2 score cut-off point of >5 best predicts poor anticoagulation control with a sensitivity of 0.49 and a specificity value of 0.68. Conclusion: The SAMe-TT2R2 score, especially when exceeding 5, was associated with a higher likelihood of poor anticoagulation control, emphasizing its relevance in clinical assessment. However, its limited predictive capability, reflected by a C-statistic of 0.548, suggests the need for cautious interpretation and consideration of additional factors in anticoagulation management decisions. Continuous monitoring and personalized strategies are crucial for optimizing outcomes in this population.

The Peculiarities of Confidence Manifestation and Psychological Conditions of its Development in the “Doctor – Patient” System

The aim of the article is to present the results of empirical study on the peculiarities of the manifestation of confidence and psychological conditions of its development in the “doctor-patient” system. Methods. The following methods were used: empirical method to study the manifestation of patient’s confidence in a doctor – “Methodology for assessing confidence / suspicion of an individual in other people” (adapted by O. Savchen­ko, V. Petrenko); in order to research the ability to take risks in interpersonal communication – the technique “Personal decision-making factors”; to identify strategies of self-presentation of doctors – the methodology “Strategies of self-presentation” (S. Lee, B. Quigley); mathematical and statistical methods of data processing. The results of the research. The research has proved that patients show a high level of trust in doctors: the subjects are able to form stable positive rela­tionships with other people, interact constructively with others in specific situations, they are confident in other people, and are able to rely on them in the process of interaction. The psychological conditions of confidence development in the “doctor-patient” system have been empirically investigated. According to the data obtained, the self-confidence of patients appears at an average level: in general, they trust their feelings, experiences, logical conclusions, but, at the same time, they may sometimes have doubts about their own competence, they do not always believe in their own strength, significance, value. It has been es­tablished that the studied patients have a high level of willingness to take risks in interpersonal communication, that is, they are ready to take a certain risk by establishing confidence in another person. Peculiarities of self-presentation among doctors have been studied. Among the studied doctors, the strategy of “Attractive behavior” is dominant. Conclusion. According to the results of the study, the assumption that the development of confidnce in the “doctor-patient” system is determined by a complex of psychological conditions (self-confidence, willingness to take risks, the effectiveness of the strategy of self-presentation in communication) has been confirmed.

Rol del contador público en las organizaciones de Medellín desde una perspectiva empresarial

The article examines the current strategic role of public accountants in modern companies, highlighting their importance not only in ensuring compliance with tax and regulatory obligations, but also in ensuring the long-term viability of organizations. Focused on companies in Medellin, the study shows how the accountant’s function has evolved from a traditional technical role to a more strategic position. A qualitative methodology was used based on interviews with managers and owners of companies. The results reveal that 53.67% of the participants believe that accountants should act as strategic advisors in the business decision-making processes. Additionally, they are seen as key contributors to improving operational efficiency and supporting the long-term sustainability of companies. Despite these advances, a traditional view of the accountant still persists in some organizations, indicating that there is still a way to go to fully recognize their strategic role as a key factor in decision making and business management, actively integrating them in working committees and long-term planning.

Scanning Micromirror Calibration Method Based on PSO-LSSVM Algorithm Prediction.

Scanning micromirrors represent a crucial component in micro-opto-electro-mechanical systems (MOEMS), with a broad range of applications across diverse fields. However, in practical applications, several factors inherent to the fabrication process and the surrounding usage environment exert a considerable influence on the accuracy of measurements obtained with the micromirror. Therefore, it is essential to calibrate the scanning micromirror and its measurement system. This paper presents a novel scanning micromirror calibration method based on the prediction of a particle swarm optimization-least squares support vector machine (PSO-LSSVM). The objective is to establish a correspondence between the actual deflection angle of the micromirror and the output of the measurement system employing a regression algorithm, thereby enabling the prediction of the tilt angle of the micromirror. The decision factor (R2) for this model at the x-axis reaches a value of 0.9947.

Real-world practitioner perceptions of CARTITUDE-4 results for patients with previously treated multiple myeloma.

Initially approved for the fifth-line or later therapeutic setting, the chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell regimen ciltacabtagene autoleucel (cilta-cel) was recently approved for second-line (2L) treatment in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). Oncology practitioners use clinical trials to inform treatment, but real-world impressions and impact on practice are lacking. We aimed to determine whether presenting CARTITUDE-4 clinical trial data would impact real-world preferences/perceptions around CAR T-cell therapy. Recruiting from the Cardinal Health Oncology Provider Extended Network (OPEN), we surveyed hematologists/oncologists to investigate fourth-line (4L) preferences in a hypothetical patient with triple-class-refractory MM. We posed the same questions and answers before and after the trial presentation and compared pre-/post-preferences toward cilta-cel and sequencing relative to bispecific antibodies (BsAbs). Using the same methodology as described above, we also performed a secondary analysis comparing pre-/post-perceptions on the use of CAR T-cell therapy in earlier lines for patients with triple-class-refractory MM. Among 50 respondents, decision-making factors before the trial presentation included CAR T-cell center availability (58%), comorbidities (52%), and center locations (34%). Additionally, 48% of 46 respondents chose 4L cilta-cel. Among 47, 40% wanted more real-world/long-term CAR T-cell therapy outcomes in any line, 38% wanted more 2L data, and 34% favored 2L/third-line (3L) use. After the presentation, the preference for cilta-cel doubled from 48% to 88% (p<0.001) among 50 respondents and rose from 34% to 55% (p=0.001) for earlier-line CAR T-cell therapy among 49. Moreover, 55% of 49 respondents preferred CAR T-cell therapy prior to BsAbs. We have shown that making oncology practitioners aware of trials precipitated decision-making factors and led to notable, significant shifts in future intended practice patterns. Being aware of trial data enables practitioners to make more informed decisions, tailor therapies to individual patients, and ultimately improve outcomes.

Ecoproducts in the Dynamic Era of Digital Communication: A Neuromarketing Study of Users’ Emotional Reactions on Social Media

In the present era, where social media have become a primary tool for interaction between brands and consumers, the importance of emotional reactions triggered by observing public comments is increasingly emphasised. This study analyses how these reactions shape the decision-making process when purchasing eco-friendly products. The aim of this study is to bridge the gap in the analysis of emotional reactions from social media users who are exposed to various unofficial information published on social media while gathering information about eco-products, which can significantly influence their purchasing decisions. The objective is to examine, compare, and evaluate how positive and negative sentiment in user comments affects the perception and value of eco-products amongst other social media users. The findings indicate that posts with positive comments foster increased engagement and a favourable perception of products, while negative comments lead to doubt and frustration. In the neuromarketing experiment, we found that 81.8% of respondents considered the visual design of the eco-product and the ecological brand message attractive, with 63.6% reporting that negative social media comments had a significant impact on their perception of the brand. These results support the hypothesis that emotional reactions to comments are a strong factor in consumer decision-making, suggesting that positive reviews may serve as social proof, while negative comments can cause cognitive dissonance. Through this study, we aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of the dynamics between emotional reactions and the perception of eco-products in the digital communication era, which has significant implications for the marketing strategies of ecological brands.

Machine learning for automation usage prediction: identifying critical factors in driver decision-making

Machine learning for automation usage prediction: identifying critical factors in driver decision-making

Relevant factors for policy concerning comprehensive genomic profiling in oncology: stakeholder perspectives

BackgroundComprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) can identify targets beyond standard of care, potentially revolutionizing personalized cancer management. However, conducting well designed studies in this rapidly evolving field is complex and demands time and investments. Consequently, the total added value of CGP remains uncertain. Clinical benefit and costs often are driving factors in coverage decisions. Recently, five additional factors were identified in the literature that can influence the choice for targeted profiling vs. CGP, specifically: “feasibility”, “test journey patient/physician”, “wider implications of diagnostic results”, “organization of laboratories”, and “scientific spillover”. The objective of the current study is to examine the role and importance assigned to these five additional factors for a comprehensive technology assessment by different stakeholders.MethodsPurposive sampling was used to identify respondents from 4 stakeholder groups (i.e., medical specialists, molecular specialists, patient representatives, and policymakers) from different regions and hospital types (academic vs. non-academic) in the Netherlands. In semi-structured interviews, respondents scored the importance to decision-making of the five factors on a 0 (not important) to 5 (essential) scale. Reasoning behind the scores were elicited using open-ended follow-up questions. Transcripts were independently double-coded by two researchers using thematic analysis.ResultsNineteen stakeholders (100% response rate; medical specialists (n = 7), molecular specialists (n = 7), patient representatives (n = 2), and policymakers (n = 3)) were interviewed. We observed differences between stakeholders in the relative importance assigned to the factors (range of median importance scores: 2–5). Overall, “wider implications of diagnostic results”, primarily CGP’s potential to identify additional treatment options, was deemed the most important factor alongside clinical benefit and costs in decision-making about CGP (median range: 3–5). While the “organization of laboratories” was considered less important (median range: 3–4), opposing arguments and preferences regarding the organization of laboratories were identified, with participants from academic centers preferring a centralized approach whilst non-academics preferred a decentralized approach.ConclusionsStakeholders deemed “wider implications of diagnostic results”, “feasibility”, and “test journey” the most important considerations for decision-making about targeted profiling vs. CGP alongside clinical benefit and costs. For policy decision-making, it is important to understand the arguments behind the heterogeneous opinions, often related to the setting they originate from.

Determining Filipinos’ Preferences for Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests: Insights From a Choice-Based Conjoint Analysis

Filipinos in the U.S. have worse colorectal cancer screening rates and outcomes than non-Hispanic Whites, despite 85% of Filipinos being proficient in English and having insurance rates, education, and incomes that exceed those of the general population. To begin to address this disparity, the authors used conjoint analysis-a method that assesses complex decision making-to better understand Filipinos' preferences for the different colorectal cancer screening test options. The authors conducted a conjoint analysis survey among unscreened Filipinos aged ≥40 years at average risk for colorectal cancer to determine the relative importance of screening test attributes in their decision making (e.g., modality, effectiveness at reducing colorectal cancer risk, bowel prep). The authors also performed simulations to estimate the proportion of people who would prefer to do an annual fecal immunochemical test or colonoscopy every 10 years for their screening. Overall, 105 Filipinos completed the survey; most respondents were female (74.3%) and aged 40-49 years (84.8%). The authors observed that test modality was the most important factor in respondents' decision making. After conducting simulations using the conjoint analysis data, the authors noted that 70 (66.7%) Filipinos preferred to do an annual fecal immunochemical test for their screening, whereas 35 (33.3%) wanted to do a colonoscopy every 10 years. The authors found that 2 in 3 Filipinos prefer fecal immunochemical test to colonoscopy for their colorectal cancer screening. To address colorectal cancer disparities in the Filipino community, investigators, health systems, public health agencies, and community organizations need to develop culturally tailored, sustainable interventions, and such programs may want to focus on improving education on and access to fecal immunochemical test.

Amachine learning technique embedded reference-dependent choice model for explanatory power improvement: Shifting of reference point as a key factor in vehicle purchase decision-making

Machine learning is a powerful tool with the potential to improve a choice model's ability to explain consumer behavior. Although the reference-dependent choice model, developed with an emphasis on real decision-making processes, has an advantage over general discrete choice models in terms of explanatory power and interpretability, there is still a lack of consensus on how the reference point should be set. Currently, the common practice is to design a reference point-based utility equation to make an arbitrary decision between past experience, the status quo, and future expectations as the reference point. However, as individual consumers may differ from researchers in how they set their reference points, the current method is rather limited for understanding consumer choice behavior. Therefore, this study proposes a new approach to more accurately understand consumer choice behavior by shifting individual reference points using ANNs (Artificial Neural Networks). The analysis results show that the model proposed in this study has better explanatory power than both the discrete choice model and the existing reference-dependent choice model. This implies that the reference point typically set by researchers approximates each individual's actual reference point through artificial neural networks. This study is significant in that it confirms the possibility that the current status, which showed the highest model fit among several reference price proxy candidates in vehicle choice, may not function as the actual reference price, while also proposing a foundational framework for identifying each consumer's true reference price. Furthermore, it can contribute to corporate strategies and government policy recommendations based on consumer preference analysis, where high explanatory power is required.

Exploring internal factors of capacity expansion decision-making in Hungarian family businesses in food industry: Introducing a novel model

The purpose of the research on which this paper is based was to test and validate the decision-making model previously set up by the authors. The model presents the internal factors influencing the decisions of family businesses regarding capacity expansion and the possible decision outcomes. The distinctiveness of the model is that it presents the internal factors affecting decisions related to capacity expansion, thereby helping family businesses to make decisions. For collecting data, both qualitative and quantitative techniques were used. As qualitative data collection techniques, in-depth interviews and focus group interviews were conducted. As quantitative method, an online questionnaire was used, whose questions were compiled based on previous research of the authors. The questions indirectly assess the internal factors influencing capacity expansion decisions of family businesses and the possible outcome of the decisions. The questionnaire was sent to the VOSZ (National Association of Entrepreneurs), MAPI (Hungarians on the Market Club) and the Association of Family Entrepreneurs, which means approximately 500 addresses. After data cleaning, 135 completed questionnaire were analyzed with SPSS software. In-depth interview was conducted with the heads of five family businesses, whose results were analyzed using tagging and artificial intelligence. The model previously set up by the authors was validated by both qualitative and quantitative research. It can be concluded that the following three internal factors influence the decision of family businesses regarding capacity expansion: socio-emotional wealth, cooperation between generations, and heterogeneous top management team. The family businesses themselves are not necessarily aware of this, so the model enriches the scientific literature and helps in the conscious operation of family businesses.

FACTORS INFLUENCING CHINESE TOURISTS’ PURCHASE DECISION ON THAI AMULETS IN THAILAND

With the continuous development of tourism and the pursuit of spiritual blessings, Thai amulets have become a unique cultural product that attracts Chinese tourists. However, to date, there has been a lack of in-depth research on the decision-making factors of PRC tourists purchasing amulets in Thailand and the association between these factors. This study aimed to 1) conduct a comprehensive investigation to explore how Chinese tourists' characteristics affect their choices to buy Thai amulets in Thailand, and 2) explore how product characteristics of Thai amulets influence Chinese tourists' decisions to purchase Thai amulets in Thailand. Data was collected through a questionnaire administered to a sample of 400 Chinese tourists who visited Thailand and purchased Thai amulets. The statistics used to analyze the data were descriptive statistics, including frequencies, means, and standard deviations, and inferential statistics, including the independent sample t-test, one-way ANOVA, LSD, and multiple linear regression. The results found that differences in terms of gender, monthly income level, and religious affiliation affect purchase decisions differently. Product characteristics, including price, reputation, and advertising, have influenced the purchasing decisions of Chinese tourists in Thailand. This study provides strong support for understanding and promoting the purchasing decision-making process of Chinese tourists towards Thai amulets. The marketing strategies and recommendations to develop a more attractive program for Chinese tourists in Thailand are provided in detail.

The Influence of Risk, Leverage, Board Gender Diversity, Moderated by Firm Size on Profitability of Banking Sector

The economic growth has been propelled by substantial changes in the monetary framework, the relaxation of financial limitations, and the incorporation into the international market. Various factors influence how companies operate to gain profits. The theory underpinning this research is risk management theory, focusing on how credit risk and market risk affect company profitability. Credit risk refers to potential losses from parties failing to meet their financial obligations, while market risk relates to asset value fluctuations due to market factors. Leverage (debt usage) represents financial theory innovation, addressing how a company's capital structure impacts profitability. Board diversity represents corporate governance theory innovation, examining the influence of female board representation on profitability. This study aims to determine the influence of credit risk, market risk, leverage, and board gender diversity on profitability, considering the moderating effects of business size. The data employed in this study was acquired from the annual financial reports of banking firms listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX), covering the period from 2018 to 2023. Purposive sampling identified a sample of 38 banks. The results show that credit risk and market risk significantly positively influence profitability. Credit risk and market risk moderated by firm size significantly negatively affect profitability. Leverage significantly negatively influences profitability, moderated by firm size. Board gender diversity does not affect profitability, and its moderation by firm size also does not affect profitability. Leverage, credit risk, and market risk have the potential to enhance profitability and attract investors, who can consider these factors for better risk-based investment decisions

Exploring consumers' perceptions of online purchase decision factors: electroencephalography and eye-tracking evidence.

Consumer behavior on the Internet is influenced by factors that can affect consumers' perceptions and attention to products. Understanding these processes at the neurobiological level can help to understand consumers' implicit responses to marketing stimuli. The objective of this study is to use electroencephalography (EEG) to investigate the differential effects of selected online purchase decision factors that are becoming increasingly important in online shopping. Using event-related potentials (ERPs) and simultaneous eye-tracking measurements, we identified differences in the perception of utilitarian and hedonic products when the products are exposed together with visual elements of the factors review, discount, and quantity discount. The ERP analysis focused on the P200 and late positive potential components (LPP). By allowing free-viewing of stimuli during measurement, early automatic and later more complex attentional affective responses could be observed. The results suggest that the review and discount factors are processed faster than the product itself. However, the eye-tracking data indicate that the brain processes the factor without looking at it directly, i.e., from a peripheral view. The study also demonstrates the possibilities of using new objective methods based on neurobiology and how they can be applied, especially in areas where the use of neuroscience is still rare, yet so much needed to objectify consumers' knowledge of their need satisfaction behavior.