High-end Research Articles

Coping with Social Media Envy in Luxury Consumption: The Role of Social Networking Site Actions

Because social networking sites facilitate social comparison, consumer envy becomes inevitable among social media users. Drawing on social comparison and coping theories, this study examines how different types of envy lead to consumers’ distinct behaviors on social networking sites, some of which are self-directed and focus on self-enhancement, while others are either positive or negative interactions with the envied person. Employing both the contexts of luxury product and service sharing experiences on Instagram, the authors consistently show in four studies that whereas consumers who experience benign envy are more likely to interact with the envied person positively, such as liking the envied person’s posts, those who experience malicious envy are more likely to engage in negative interactions, such as unfollowing the envied person. Benign enviers are more likely to engage in self-enhancement actions on social networking sites, such as posting images/videos more frequently, compared with malicious enviers. When coping with the negative feeling of envy, positive interactions help benign enviers improve their sense of belonging. In contrast, malicious enviers tend to engage in maladaptive coping behaviors, such as engaging in negative interactions with the envied, which may diminish their sense of belonging and lead to negative self-perceptions.

Low-emissions hydrogen from MCH dehydrogenation: Integration with LNG regasification

Methylcyclohexane (MCH) is a promising organic hydride carrier for hydrogen transport and storage. Recovering hydrogen from MCH is an energy intensive process. An innovative idea of integrating this process with liquified natural gas (LNG) regasification is proposed in this study and demonstrated via modelling and simulation to substantially reduce external energy use. The synergistic benefits are twofold. In addition to providing a cold energy source for an effective high recovery cryogenic flash separation, the organic Rankine cycle based electrical power generation potential from LNG cold energy is fully exploited to reduce/eliminate external electricity demand for hydrogen compression to the high (end use) pressure. The results is a major reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. The proposed design for an integrated LNG-H2terminal can supply (1) 99.99 mol% pure hydrogen to a Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power plant and (2) commercial-grade natural gas to a gas-grid, both at the desired pressures and temperatures. Subsequently, rigorous simulation-based optimization was performed to minimize external energy inputs.A case study with 100 tph MCH and 100 tph LNG showed that integrating regasification with dehydrogenation produced 6.2 tph of hydrogen while gasifying LNG with a net power generation of 310 kW and a hydrogen recovery cost of 0.282 $/kg H2. Up to 7.3 tonnes of hydrogen can be produced per 100 tonnes of LNG without the use of external power. On the other hand, using external power, up to 11.3 tonnes of hydrogen can be produced per 100 tonnes of LNG without any external refrigeration. Overall, the superstructure proposed in this manuscript provides a generic initial approach for future MCH hydrogen supply chain projects, when considering integrations with LNG regasification plants.

Analysis of forming mechanism and influencing factors of thermoacoustic plate end temperature difference

In order to explore the formation mechanism and influencing factors of the temperature difference between two ends of the plate stack, an expression of the temperature change of the stack with time was established based on the two-dimensional heat conduction equation. Based on this, the finite element model of heat transfer between a single thermoacoustic plate stack and the gas above it is established in Ansys, and the temperature of the plate stack is solved. When the sound field is constant, the variation law of the temperature of the stack with the working time and space is obtained, and the formation mechanism of the temperature difference between the two ends of the plate stack is revealed. From the calculation results, it is found that the net heat transfer between the gas and the plate stack is mainly reflected in the two ends of the plate stack, and the contribution of the air mass in the middle part is mainly the relay heat transfer. In the process of working, part of the sound work is converted into the internal energy of the air mass, which makes the gas temperature on the surface of the plate rise as a whole. The working frequency, stack length and stack thermal conductivity are taken as the influencing factors. When no load is added, the variation of the temperature of the high and low end of the stack with the working time under different working conditions is analyzed. And the theory of series between short plates is put forward to explain the formation mechanism of large temperature difference between the two ends of the plates. In order to further reduce the cooling temperature of thermoacoustic refrigerator, a new research method and exploration direction are proposed.

The SRG/eROSITA all-sky survey. X-ray emission from the warm-hot phase gas in long cosmic filaments

The properties of the warm-hot intergalactic medium (WHIM) in cosmic filaments are among the least quantified units in modern astrophysics. The Spectrum Roentgen Gamma/eROSITA All Sky Survey ((SRG/eRASS) provides a unique opportunity to study the X-ray emission of the WHIM. We applied both imaging and spectroscopic stacking techniques to the data of the first four eRASS scans to inspect the X-ray emissions from 7817 cosmic filaments identified from Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) optical galaxy samples. We obtained a $9 significant detection of the total X-ray signal from filaments in the 0.3--1.2 keV band. Here, we introduce a novel method to estimate the contamination fraction from unmasked X-ray halos, active galactic nuclei, and X-ray binaries associated with filament galaxies. We found an approximately 40<!PCT!> contamination fraction for these unmasked sources, suggesting that the remaining 60<!PCT!> of the signal could be coming from the WHIM and a $5.4 detection significance of the WHIM. Moreover, we modeled the temperature and baryon density contrast of the detected WHIM by fitting the stacked spectrum and surface brightness profile. The best-fit temperature $ K obtained by using a single temperature model, is marginally higher than in the simulation results. This could be due to the fitting of a single temperature model on a multi-temperature spectrum. Assuming a 0.2 solar abundance, the best-fit baryon density contrast $ b is in general agreement with the X-ray emitting phases in the IllustrisTNG simulation. This result suggests that the broadband X-ray emission traces the high end of the temperature and density values that characterize the entire WHIM population.

Knowledge, Morality, and the Appeal of Counterfeit Luxury Goods

Knowledge, Morality, and the Appeal of Counterfeit Luxury Goods

Arterial stiffness after 6 weeks postdelivery in women with a history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: a systematic review protocol

IntroductionHypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are one of the leading causes of maternal morbidity and mortality. The risk of developing cardiovascular diseases following HDP is high. Arterial stiffness is a...

What, no logos? Why some minimalists prefer quiet luxury

AbstractMinimalism is a philosophy based on reduction of consumption and holding fewer possessions that has gained great momentum and popularity worldwide. While prior literature suggests that not all minimalists engage in luxury consumption, a segment of minimalists labeled inconspicuous minimalists are theorized to not only focus on having fewer possessions, but also to have a preference for high product quality and subtlety in design that translates into a higher propensity to purchase “quiet luxury” products. This research empirically examines the relationship between inconspicuous minimalism and luxury consumption. In four experimental studies, we find that contrary to popular belief, certain minimalists are in fact likely to purchase luxury goods. Moreover, we find that inconspicuous minimalists prefer “quiet” versions of luxury brands that are more discreet (no logos), and that these luxury purchases are motivated by a desire for social connectedness to knowledgeable “elites” who share similar cultural capital and values. These findings suggest that inconspicuous minimalists are motivated by social factors, but not by traditional Veblen style conspicuous consumption motives in which the buyer has a desire to impress the masses.

A Qualitative Study on Counterfeit Consumption in Kuwait

Purpose: This study explores the phenomenon of counterfeit luxury goods consumption in Kuwait, influenced by high disposable incomes, social status importance, and Islamic norms. The research aims to understand the socio-psychological motivations behind purchasing counterfeit luxury products.Study design/methodology/approach: Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and netnography. Semi-structured interviews provided in-depth exploration of participants' experiences, while netnography captured real-time online interactions and discussions.Sample and data: The study involved semi-structured interviews with 21 participants familiar with counterfeit luxury brands, predominantly under 30 years old. Additionally, 372 comments were collected from Instagram for the netnographic analysis to understand consumer behaviors and attitudes.Results: The study reveals that socio-psychological factors significantly impact counterfeit product consumption. Social conformity and public image influence counterfeit luxury consumption in Kuwait. Fashion consciousness and financial considerations, prioritizing visual appeal and cost savings over authenticity, are also highlighted. The hedonic experience associated with buying and using counterfeit products emerged as a significant motivator.Originality/value: This research provides a nuanced understanding of counterfeit consumption within a unique cultural and religious context, contributing to the limited literature on the subject in the Middle East. It offers insights for policymakers and brand managers to develop strategies addressing this issue.Research limitations/implications: The qualitative nature and convenience sampling limit the generalizability of the findings. Future research could expand to include different socio-economic backgrounds for a more comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon.

Kebijakan Hukum Pengaturan Penggunaan Kendaraan Listrik Dalam Penguatan Ketahanan Energi Nasional

A number of government policies to accelerate the use of electric vehicles are outlined in a number of statutory provisions. The legal umbrella for the use of electric vehicles was first outlined in Presidential Regulation Number 55 of 2019 concerning the Acceleration of the Battery-Based Electric Motorized Vehicle Program. Based on the background above, researchers are very interested in studying: 1) How are electric vehicles currently regulated in Indonesia? and 2) What is the ideal arrangement for electric vehicles to strengthen sustainable energy security in Indonesia? The type of research used in this research is normative legal research. The legal material analysis technique applied in this research involves describing what is the problem, explaining the problem (explanation), examining the problem (evaluation) and providing arguments from the results of the evaluation. The regulation of electric vehicles in Indonesia is currently regulated in Presidential Decree No. 55 of 2019, which is the initial regulation that became the legal umbrella for Indonesian electric vehicles, then derivatives such as PP No. 73 of 2019 which regulates the imposition of Sales Tax on Luxury Goods (PPnBM). Regulation of electric vehicles is ideal in strengthening sustainable energy security in Indonesia by advancing and regulating the biofuel industry, lithium battery industry and electric vehicles. In the future, the government can target public transportation vehicles to switch to using electric power with batteries.

A Study on the Phenomenon of Conspicuous Consumption in South Korea’s Luxury Market Under Economic Uncertainty

This paper investigates the phenomenon of conspicuous consumption in South Korea’s luxury market under conditions of economic uncertainty. While traditional economic theories suggest that luxury spending should decrease during periods of financial instability, the South Korean market demonstrates a contrasting trend, where luxury consumption not only persists but often intensifies. Through qualitative interviews with consumers, industry experts, and market analysts, this study explores the cultural, social, and psychological factors driving this behavior. The findings reveal that social status, identity, and emotional coping mechanisms play crucial roles in sustaining luxury consumption, even amidst economic downturns. Furthermore, the influence of K-Culture and social media amplifies the desire for luxury goods, especially among younger consumers. The study also highlights the complex interplay between economic variables, such as GDP growth, unemployment rates, and consumer confidence, and their impact on luxury spending patterns. This paper contributes to a deeper understanding of the unique dynamics at play in the South Korean luxury market and offers insights for luxury brands, marketers, and policymakers to develop effective strategies in this rapidly evolving environment.

Effect of the competitive exclusion culture on the growth, blood parameters, leg health, and innate immunity of broiler chickens

Abstract The primary aim of poultry production is to obtain a high yield and quality end product. To reduce the risk of disease, many direct-fed microbial products have been developed. That appears to be an excellent tool for disease prevention. We evaluated the influence of the commercial, competitive exclusion (CE) product, Broilact®, on the growth rate, hematology, serum biochemistry, and innate immunity in male ROSS-308 chickens, randomly divided into two groups (Broilact® treatment and control) raised for 42 days. The birds’ body weight was determined at 1, 7, 14, 28, 35, and 42 days, and the blood samples were collected at days 22 and 42 of life. We observed lower mortality, better gait score, and higher final body weight in the Broilact® group. At day 22, birds from the treated group presented higher white blood cells counts (WBC) and T cytotoxic lymphocyte (CD8+) counts, higher total protein (TP) (fraction globulin and albumin), and lower triglyceride (TAG) and Ca2+ plasma concentrations. No differences were found in acute phase proteins (APPs). At day 42, only the K+ and Na+ concentrations were higher, while the IL-10 was lower in treated birds’ blood serum. Our results indicate that treatment with one dose of the Broilact® product at day one of life has a beneficial influence, which improves the chickens’ performance, leg health and some serum enzymes activity, maintains electrolyte homeostasis, and influences leukocyte count with the rise of T CD8+ subpopulations.

Profit or prestige? Strategies for luxury brands to navigate the second-hand market using blockchain technology

Luxury brands are increasingly adopting blockchain technology to combat counterfeiting, yet they face a dilemma in addressing the market of second-hand luxury products. While a luxury brand’s involvement in second-hand sales could diminish its exclusivity, it could also increase the brand’s profits. Motivated by luxury brands’ concerns about venturing into the second-hand market while preserving their brand exclusivity, this study presents an analytical model to investigate how blockchain authentication impacts their strategies in the second-hand market. A distinctive feature of this study is the conceptualisation of aspirational value associated with the luxury brand. Our analysis reveals that premium and mass-market brands can improve brand exclusivity by enhancing second-hand product quality. However, luxury brands may diminish brand exclusivity if the quality of second-hand products is high. Additionally, luxury brands can maintain exclusivity by avoiding the second-hand market when using blockchain for authentication, provided that the authentication cost is below a threshold. Furthermore, our research sheds light on the strategies of various fashion brands (mass-market, premium, and luxury brands), contingent upon their aspirational values, to combat counterfeit products by deploying a blockchain-based authentication mechanism for the second-hand market.

Design principles for >90% efficiency and >99% indistinguishability broadband quantum dot cavities

Abstract Quantum dots have the potential to be one of the brightest deterministic single photon sources with high end applications in quantum computing and cluster state generation. In this work, we re-examine the design of simple micropillars by meticulously examining the structural effects of the decay into leaky channels beyond an atom-like cavity estimation. We show that precise control of the side losses with the diameter and avoidance of propagating Bloch modes in the distributed Bragg reflectors can result in easy-to-manufacture broadband (Q≈ 750 − 2500) micropillars, allowing for broad optical coherent control pulses necessary for high single photon purity (> 99.2 − 99.99% achievable) while simultaneously demonstrating extremely high efficiency out the top (90.5% − 96.4%). We also demonstrate that such cavities naturally decouple from the phonon sideband, with the phonon sideband reducing by a factor of 5 − 33 allowing us to predict that the photons should show 98.5% − 99.8% indistinguishability without the need for filtering.

Exploring the Influence of Consumer Perception, Social Norms, and Face Consciousness on Generation Z’s Willingness to Purchase Counterfeit Luxury Goods

This conceptual study explores the influence of consumer perception, social norms, and face consciousness on Generation Z's willingness to purchase counterfeit luxury goods. As the youngest and most digitally connected consumer group, Generation Z presents a unique paradox: a desire for luxury and social status juxtaposed with value-driven, often budget-conscious purchasing behaviors. Drawing on theories of consumer behavior, social identity, and face consciousness, this paper examines how Generation Z’s motivations are shaped by perceptions of counterfeit value, peer influence, and a heightened sense of social image. By analyzing these factors, the study provides a framework for understanding Gen Z's attitudes toward counterfeit luxury goods, offering insights for luxury brand managers to reinforce brand authenticity and mitigate counterfeit appeal. Findings suggest that aligning brand strategies with Gen Z’s values around authenticity, social responsibility, and exclusivity can play a pivotal role in counteracting the demand for counterfeit products, while fostering a culture of informed and ethical consumption.

Pengaruh Intellectual Capital, Kepemilikan Manajerial, Firm Size, Ukuran Komite Audit Terhadap Nilai Perusahaan

This study aims to determine and analyze the effect of Intellectual Capital, Managerial Ownership, Firm Size, Audit Committee Size on Firm Value in Apparel and Luxury Goods Sub-Sector Companies Listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for 2019-2023. The method of determining the sample in this study using purposive sampling method and the population in this study were 22 companies, while the sample used was 13 companies. The data analysis used in this research is multiple linear regression analysis using SPSS software version 25. The results of this study indicate that intellectual capital has no effect on firm value, and managerial ownership has a positive and significant effect on firm value, then firm size and audit committee size have a negative and significant effect on firm value.

High dietary advanced glycation end products (dAGEs) intake is associated with obesity risk in college students

High dietary advanced glycation end products (dAGEs) intake is associated with obesity risk in college students

The Role of Housewives in the Management of Household Finances

The aim of study focuses on evaluating the role of the housewives, regarding the terms such as: financial management, knowledge and use of financial products, financial planning, forecasting and savings as well, level of debt. Female workers from the “Duxom” Corporate participated in the study, which are located in the different headquarters in the State of Mexico, Progreso, Tabasco, Sinaloa, Sonora, Guadalajara, Veracruz, and Baja California. Of the total number of employees, a non-probabilistic sample was applied by self-determination, in order to obtain the greatest number of cases in the time established for the field study, which was two months. To obtain the data we used a scale, which integrates questions from the participants' profile, and 27 items related to financial management (9 items); knowledge and use of financial products (4 items); financial planning at home (4 items), foresight and savings (3 items), debt level (7 items). With the results, a four-factor model is validated, where we can see that women like to have items to impress people, and it gives them pleasure to buy luxury items. They agree to be guarantors for other people, they make extreme decisions in investments and something very risky, they make purchases even when they cannot pay them, since they prefer to have debts than to let their children go without gifts on important dates. They like to buy online because the internet makes everything easier for them. They recognize the importance of families setting financial goals to identify priorities. Finally, they consider that having a written financial plan is essential for successful financial management of income, savings and expenses, which translates into family success.

Conspicuous consumption and conscientious conservation: Testing for a status-prosociality link through need for uniqueness and variety seeking

Whereas the environmental impact of buying luxury goods is debated, there is evidence that purchasing such products—often referred to as conspicuous consumption—can be more sustainable than hoarding cheaper alternatives because luxury goods are more durable and are often passed down through generations, resulting in fewer resources being consumed by the average consumer. Contrary to popular beliefs that conspicuous consumption is inconsistent with environmental concerns, recent studies demonstrate that conspicuous consumption is sometimes positively associated with proenvironmentalism. However, less is known about the psychological mechanisms responsible for this counterintuitive association. In this research, we propose and find that conspicuous consumption orientation is positively related to proenvironmental consumption values, with this relationship being mediated by consumers' need for uniqueness and variety seeking. The proposed framework was tested and supported by a large-scale cross-sectional survey (N = 1400; 59.9% women), with data analyzed using structural equation modeling. Together, the current findings shed light on the processes that explain the link between conspicuous consumption and proenvironmental purchasing preferences, with the current results suggesting that consumers’ tendency to seek unique and varied options in the marketplace may be used to promote sustainable consumption.

Clinicians' confidence in diagnosing atypical anorexia nervosa: An experimental study of the role of patient and clinician characteristics.

This experimental study investigated the weight loss parameters and resulting end weight that influence clinician confidence in diagnosing atypical anorexia nervosa (AAN). Clinicians (N=67) read a series of vignettes where patient weight loss and end weight varied, then rated their confidence in an AAN diagnosis and alternatives. Using repeated measures ANOVAs, we examined patient (weight loss, end weight) and the possible relationship between clinician (e.g., age, profession) characteristics and confidence in diagnosing AAN. Clinicians were most confident in an AAN diagnosis when patients had lost 10% or 15% of their body weight, leaving them at a high or normal weight. Clinicians considered 5% as significant weight loss for AAN, but only when the patient ended at a high or normal weight. However, they did not clearly differentiate AAN from unspecified feeding and eating disorder (UFED) when there was a 5% weight loss resulting in high or normal end weight. Clinician characteristics did not impact on confidence in diagnoses. The DSM's 'significant weight loss' criterion leaves room for clinicians to interpret it idiosyncratically. The lack of a clear pattern of UFED and AAN diagnosis has important clinical implications, as UFED tends to be dismissed as being less serious.

GEMTELLIGENCE: Accelerating gemstone classification with deep learning

The value of luxury goods, particularly investment-grade gemstones, is influenced by their origin and authenticity, often resulting in differences worth millions of dollars. Traditional methods for determining gemstone origin and detecting treatments involve subjective visual inspections and a range of advanced analytical techniques. However, these approaches can be time-consuming, prone to inconsistencies, and lack automation. Here, we propose GEMTELLIGENCE, a novel deep learning approach enabling streamlined and consistent origin determination of gemstone origin and detection of treatments. GEMTELLIGENCE leverages convolutional and attention-based neural networks that combine the multi-modal heterogeneous data collected from multiple instruments. The algorithm attains predictive performance comparable to expensive laser-ablation inductively-coupled-plasma mass-spectrometry analysis and expert visual examination, while using input data from relatively inexpensive analytical methods. Our methodology represents an advancement in gemstone analysis, greatly enhancing automation and robustness throughout the analytical process pipeline.