High-end Research Articles

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.

Pengaruh Profitabilitas, Likuiditas, Pertumbuhan Penjualan, dan Operating Capacity terhadap Financial Distress

This study aims to determine the influence of Profitability, Liquidity, Sales Growth, and Operating Capacity on Financial Distribution on the clothing and luxury goods sub-sector listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the 2019-2023 period. The sampling technique used is Non Probability Sampling with a sample of 9 companies in the clothing and luxury goods sub-sector listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the 2019-2023 period. In this study, a multiple linear regression method was carried out assisted by the SPSS version 29 program and Microsoft Excel 2010. The results showed that (1) Profitability had no effect on Financial Distress, (2) Liquidity had an effect on Financial Distress, (3) Sales Growth had no effect on Financial Distress, (4) Operating Capacity had an effect on Financial Distress.

Removal of signal peptide variants by cation exchange chromatography: A case study

Signal peptide (SP) is required for secretion of recombinant proteins and typically cleaved by signal peptidase at its C-region to generate the mature proteins. Miscleavage of the SP is reported occasionally, resulting in a truncated- or elongated-terminal sequence. In the present work, we demonstrated that cation exchange (CEX) chromatography is an effective means for removing SP variants with a case study. With the selected resin/conditions, the chromatographic performance is comparable between runs performed at the low end and high end of load density and elution range. The procedure described in this work can be used as a general approach for resin selection and optimization of chromatographic conditions to remove byproducts that bind more strongly than the product to the selected resin.

The Enablers and Interdependencies of Blockchain Technology in Supply Chain Management: Evidence From Luxury Products

ABSTRACTBlockchain is a technology that combines a set of properties to guarantee network security, transparency, and visibility, including a decentralized structure, distributed notes and storage mechanism, consensus algorithm, intelligent contracts, and asymmetric encryption. Supply chain management activities, including supply chain management provenance, business process reengineering, and security enhancement, have enormous potential to be transformed by blockchain. This research uses the integrated interpretive structural modeling–cross‐impact matrix multiplication applied to classification (ISM‐MICMAC) technique to ascertain the hierarchical relationships and to comprehend the severity of interrelationships among various components in tackling our research questions. In MICMAC analysis, the enablers were classified into four categories based on their dependence and driving powers. The combined ISM‐MICMAC methodology employed for this study relies on experts’ individual evaluations and subjective assessments. Therefore, even with extreme caution, it is impossible to guarantee that the results are entirely devoid of personal biases. To further validate the linkages discovered in this study, we suggest employing more multiple‐criteria decision‐making (MCDM) methodologies and comparing the results with those of our research. Another method for confirming the results of the current study is to use an empirical research design based on survey methods.

Serum Calcium Level at Diagnosis Can Predict Lethal Prostate Cancer Relapse.

Background/Objectives: The most important prognostic factors in curatively treated prostate cancer are T and N stage, histology, grade group and initial PSA. A recent study found that men with blood calcium levels at the high end of the normal range are over two-and-a-half times more likely to develop fatal prostate cancer than those with lower calcium levels. However, there is limited evidence regarding the prognostic value of calcium levels at the time of prostate cancer diagnosis. We aimed to determine whether a calcium level in the upper range of normal values has any prognostic value in curatively treated prostate cancer. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 84 consecutive patients with prostate cancer who underwent curative-intent radiotherapy-either as primary treatment or adjuvant therapy-using external beam radiotherapy with or without brachytherapy. We analyzed all pertinent prognostic factors that could potentially impact disease-free survival. Results: The study revealed that calcium levels at diagnosis significantly predict disease-free survival, whereas the initial PSA level did not hold prognostic significance-likely due to interference from benign prostatic hyperplasia. Conclusions: If our findings are validated, calcium levels at the time of prostate cancer diagnosis could be incorporated into future predictive and prognostic models.

The Impact of Little Red Book Key Opinion Leader Characteristics on Young Consumers' Intention to Purchase Luxury Goods

In the era of globalization, marketization, and intelligent development, Xiaohongshu, as a mainstream social media platform with a large volume in China, is committed to the development of Key Opinion Leader (hereinafter referred to as KOL) to attract traffic and increase the conversion rate of purchase. Therefore, in the online marketing of luxury brands, KOL with different characteristics of Little Red Book plays an important role in whether young consumers are willing to buy. Nowadays, under the wind of Influencer marketing, the competition of KOL group is very fierce, the content paradigm tends to be homogenized, the cost of transferring consumers' attention is low, and KOL has its distinctive features and personalized characteristics to stand out, attract the traffic, and get consumers' attention. This paper takes influencer marketing as the background to study the influence mechanism of Little Red Book KOL characteristics on young consumers' willingness to buy luxury goods. The research results show that young luxury consumers are more likely to be influenced by their recommendation information when they have purchase demand and are familiar with opinion leaders to a certain extent.

Catering to Luxury Chinese Tourists Demand: Insights from Malaysian Inbound Travel Agencies

ABSTRACT The shift toward luxury tourism has engendered a new class of high-end Chinese tourists, presenting significant opportunities for generating substantial revenue through premium tourism products and services. This study specifically explores Malaysian inbound travel agencies’ perceptions, preparedness, and challenges in attracting luxury Chinese tourists. Through qualitative interviews and thematic analysis, this study delves into nine Malaysian inbound travel agencies’ perspectives on attracting luxury Chinese tourists. The qualitative findings reveal distinct characteristics and preferences of Chinese luxury tourists, notably their substantial financial capability, penchant for shopping activities, preference for authentic local Chinese cuisine, and the significance of Mandarin-speaking tour guides. The Chinese tourists also seek high standards and exclusivity, aspire for unique experiences, and often desire customization in their travel itineraries. However, challenges surface in meeting their unique preferences, including limited infrastructures, the need for customization in luxury services, and bureaucratic hurdles. Despite these challenges, travel agencies assert their readiness to cater to the demands of Chinese luxury tourists, actively promoting and enhancing their high-end offerings. By delving into these aspects, the study provides valuable practical and academic insights into industry strategies and the complexities of serving affluent tourist segments within a multicultural destination.

Consumption patterns of fresh and frozen chicken: A Ghanaian food policy perspective

AbstractDespite the global increase in poultry consumption, there are different preferences for chicken products in different countries. In Ghana, two main categories dominate the market: live/fresh whole chickens and imported frozen chicken parts. This study leverages data from 13,201 households to explore Ghanaian demand dynamics for these products using the Quadratic Almost Ideal Demand System. Findings reveal stark differences between the two. Live/fresh whole chickens, considered luxury goods, display a complex interplay with other non‐chicken meat products, cultural festivities, and various sociodemographic factors. Meanwhile, frozen chicken parts, seen as necessities, exhibit different demand shifters and peak consumption periods. Importantly, these two categories emerge as distinct products, signaling to policymakers the need for differentiated strategies. Simulated policy scenarios further emphasize that reducing prices of live/fresh chickens significantly boosts domestic chicken demand more than policies raising prices of frozen parts. However, the broader implications on alternative protein sources differ between the two policy types. We urge policymakers to adopt an integrated approach, considering these nuances, to strengthen Ghana's domestic poultry sector without unintended market disruptions. [EconLit citations: Q11, Q13, Q17, Q18, D12].

Pengaruh Current Ratio, Return on Asset, Debt to Equity Ratio dan Firm Size terhadap Price to Book Value pada Perusahaan Consumer Cyclicals Subsektor Apparel and Luxury Goods yang Terdaftar di Bursa Efek Indonesia Periode 2015-2023

The purpose of this research is to ascertain how the price to book value of consumer cyclical companies in the apparel and luxury goods subsector listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange is affected by return on assets, current ratio, debt to equity ratio, and business size between 2015 and 2023. An approach to verification and description is combined with a quantitative methodology in this study. Statistical tests for verification include the traditional assumption test, multiple linear regression, Pearson correlation coefficient, determination coefficient, and hypothesis testing with partial and simultaneous tests (t and f tests). The Financial Reports of 72 Companies in the Apparel and Luxury Goods Subsector of Consumer Cyclicals Companies provide the sample data. sampling with nonprobability purposive sampling. Version 26.0 of SPSS is utilized as a data processing tool. Price to Book Value is not impacted in any way by the study's findings regarding Current Ratio, Return on Asset, Debt to Equity Ratio and firm size. The study's findings concurrently demonstrated that Price to Book Value was significantly impacted by Current Ratio, Return on Asset, Debt to Equity Ratio, and Company Size

Analysis of the Impact of Luxury Marketing Methods on Customer Consumption Psychology

Our research object is Herms, a world-renowned luxury brand, especially its brand strategy, distribution and purchase system, and the psychological characteristics of brand consumers. We use a variety of research methods for analysis, including an in-depth study of Herms' brand history, product lines, and marketing strategies through literature. Using the 4P marketing theory model of product, price, location and promotion, it makes a comprehensive analysis of Hermes' marketing strategy. Finally, a questionnaire about Hermes consumers was used to conduct detailed data analysis and interpretation. It is found that the success of Hermes is largely due to its unique brand strategy and marketing strategy. Although the distribution system is controversial, for Herms, its existence is exactly in line with its brand positioning, and it has successfully attracted some wealthy consumers who are willing to pay for luxury experiences.

Effects of Moringa oleifera leaf extract on growth performance, blood hematology, immunity, carcass, and meat quality of Mae Hong Son chicken

Moringa oleifera is a nutrient-rich plant with a wide range of beneficial effects on chicken and chicken products. Mae Hong Son chickens, a variety of Thai native poultry, are renowned for their exceptional meat quality, distinct flavor, and remarkable tenderness. Therefore, this present study aimed to investigate the effects of Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MOLE) on growth performance, blood hematology and immunity, carcass, and meat quality of Mae Hong Son chickens, respectively. Briefly, 200 birds of Mae Hong Son chickens were subsequently divided into 4 groups, each containing 50 birds. They were fed for 16 weeks with different supplementary as follows: 1. Control group 2. Placebo (maltodextrin + microcrystalline cellulose PH101) 3. 2% of MOLE extract supplementation and 4. 4% of MOLE extract supplementation. The results showed that T4 achieved the best outcomes in terms of body weight and average daily gain, while also having the lowest total white blood cell (WBC) count and the highest ND HI titer at 12 weeks old (p < 0.05). On the other hand, T1 had the highest fat percentage and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) values in both the thigh and breast (p < 0.05). Additionally, the shear force of T1 was the lowest, both in the thigh and breast (p < 0.05). In summary, the potential of MOLE could improve growth performance, hematological parameters, immune response, and meat quality in Thai native chicken production.

Analyzing the Decline of Luxury Women’s Shoe Brands in China: A Market Analysis – Based Study of STUART WEITZMAN

The luxury goods industry has always been a highly anticipated area in the market. With the development of the global economy and the improvement of people's living standards, the luxury goods market has also flourished. However, overall, according to the quarterly or fiscal annual reports released by major luxury brands in the luxury industry in recent years, their common characteristic is the sharp decline in revenue in China; from a regional perspective, the decline in sales in China has the greatest impact on the decreasing total revenue of brands over the years. Such as STUART WEITZMAN, the representative head luxury women's shoe brand, total direct sales, which include stores and e-commerce, in FY23 both declined by as much as 24% compared to FY22. This article takes STUART WEITZMAN as an example to study the specific reasons for the decline in sales volume of luxury in China market in recent years compared to previous years. This study uses the market mix model to analyze STUART WEITZMAN 's marketing strategy in the market, Using the PEST model to analyze the macro environment, Use SWOT to analyze the internal and external environment of STUART WEITZMAN. Research has found that the main reason for the decline in luxury goods sales in recent years is luxury brands have been raising prices, and consumers are psychologically unable to accept the increasing premium. The middle class is more inclined to consider practicality and cost-effectiveness, pursuing the ultimate cost-effectiveness. Secondly, consumers have more other options. In addition to luxury brands, high-end niche brands, designer brands, high-end custom brands, and traditional Chinese brands have also begun to be favored by luxury consumers. Finally, in the post pandemic era, outbound tourism has resumed, and consumers can purchase the same products overseas at more favorable prices.

The relationship between health-care expenditure and disposable personal income: a panel econometric analysis on the EU countries

PurposeWhen the factors affecting health expenditures are examined in the literature, it is seen that one of the most important factors is income. In this context, the purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between out-of-pocket health expenditures and disposable personal income and revealing the income elasticity of health expenditures.Design/methodology/approachTherefore, short/long-term coefficients were obtained by analyzing Westerlund (2007) co-integration analysis and pooled mean group (PMG) regression methods for 22 European Union (EU) member states during the period 2003–2017. In addition, a comparison of the long-term coefficients for each country was obtained with augmented mean group (AMG) estimator.FindingsThe results of the AMG and PMG tests show that the long-term coefficients between disposable personal income and health expenditures are 0.83 and 0.97, respectively. These results imply that there is a significant relationship between the variables, and that health care should be categorized in the group of normal goods. However, the fact that the long-term coefficient is very close to 1, despite being classified in the category of necessity goods, requires more care to be taken in evaluating whether health services are luxury goods or necessity goods.Originality/valueThe use of second generation econometric tests on both cross-sectional dependence and heterogeneity demonstrates the value of the study. On the other hand, obtaining similar results by investigating the relationship between variables using different appropriate econometric models reveals the importance of the methodology used in this study. It reveals important details in terms of the literature regarding the long-term and short-term results obtained in this study.

Consumer Buying Behaviour in Sustainable Luxury Fashion

The purpose of this research paper on sustainability in luxury fashion is to analyse the current state of how each gender has a different purchasing behaviour in terms of sustainability practisesin luxury fashion, identify challenges, and contribute to a larger discussion on the role of luxury fashion in shaping a more sustainable and equitable global fashion industry. Chi- square test has been used to determine how gender influences the sustainability of luxury fashion. The two variables in this case are luxury fashion sustainability and gender. To achieve this objective, a primary survey was conducted with a sample of 124 participants who were divided into gender group namely female, male, others and prefer not to say. In this research paper it was found out using data analysis based on the primary survey of 124 respondents on how often do people purchase luxury fashion products that are marketed as sustainable or eco-friendly based on gender. As seen in the table 1,64% percentage of men always purchase fashion products that are marketed as sustainable, which is 29% more than women. 56% of the of the men never buy luxury goods that are more sustainable compared to 44% women who never buy sustainable goods. 53% of women sometimes purchase fashion products that are marketed as sustainable than 47% of the men. The same has been depicted in chart 1. It can be found out that overall men purchase more sustainable goods than women Keywords: sustainability, luxury fashion, purchasing behavior, gender differences, Chi-square test, eco-friendly products, consumer behavior

Effect of the Heaviness of Smoking Index (HSI) and Duration of Smoking on Central Neural Processing Using Brainstem Auditory Evoked Responses (BAERs).

Purpose of study The goal of this research was to find the correlation of nicotine dependence and duration of smoking with the status of central neuronal processing in chronic smokers. Our primary objective was to record brainstem auditory evoked responses (BAERs) in chronic smokers and further find their correlation to the Heaviness of Smoking Index (HSI) scores and years of non-abstained smoking of the subjects. We postulated that smoking leads to myelination abnormalities which in turn causes decreased impulse conduction velocity. Methods After obtaining informed consent, we conducted BAER on 60 male smokers who were further classified into groups based on their HSI scores (low, moderate, and high nicotine dependency) and 20 age-matched, non-smoking males. The obtained data was examined using the two-way ANOVA test and the Kruskal-Wallis test. Pearson's coefficient of correlationand the median (as a measure of central tendency) were calculated. Results We observed a non-significant negative correlation between wave I BAER latency and the degree of nicotine dependence. Wave II showed minimal correlation, whereas a positive correlation was seen in waves III, IV, and V. Interpeak latencies (IPL) I-III and III-V showed a non-significant positive correlation with the HSI score, whereas IPL I-V showed a significant positive correlation with the same. When correlated with the duration of smoking (years), the latencies (msec) of BAER waves I-V showed a pattern of progressively decreasing negative correlation, out of which waves I, II, and III were significantly affected. The IPL (msec) of waves I-III was non-significantly, yet positively, correlated, while the IPL of waves I-V and III-V showed a significant positive correlation to the duration of smoking. Conclusions The degree of nicotine dependence and duration of tobacco smoking progressively affected the latencies of BAER waves at the pontomedullary level of the brainstem. This indicates slower central neuronal processing at this level and an increased central transmission time, the extent of which is directly dependent on the extent of tobacco smoking. This is attributed to the myelination defects caused by direct and indirect effects of the toxic metabolites of tobacco smoke, chronic hypoxia, hypercapnia, and respiratory acidosis.

Factors that influence consumers’ inclination to acquire counterfeit luxury goods

This study investigates the influence of perceived value and perceived risk on consumer intentions to purchase counterfeit luxury goods, drawing upon an integrated theoretical framework encompassing perceived value theory, risk perception theory, and consumer behavior models. Through a quantitative research design involving a structured survey and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), the study examines the relationships among perceived value dimensions (functional, emotional, social, economic), perceived risk factors (financial, social, performance), consumer attitudes, and purchase intentions. The findings reveal that perceived value positively influences purchase intentions, with consumer attitudes acting as a critical mediating mechanism. Conversely, perceived risk negatively impacts purchase intentions, with this relationship also mediated by consumer attitudes. Furthermore, Bayesian Network analysis uncovers the indirect pathways through which perceived risk shapes purchase intentions via its influence on consumer attitudes. By integrating these theoretical frameworks and employing advanced analytical techniques, this study contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the complex decision-making processes underlying counterfeit luxury goods consumption. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, luxury brand managers, and consumer protection agencies in devising targeted strategies to address consumer perceptions of value and risk, ultimately mitigating the proliferation of counterfeit luxury goods.

Crafting Luxury Marketing Strategy: Strategic Integration of Sustainability and Market Leadership of Hermes

This study delves into Hermes strategic operations in the luxury goods market, focusing on its brand management, brand marketing, and their profound impact on corporate sustainability. Anchored in its rich history and exceptional craftsmanship, Hermes has strategically positioned itself as a leader in the global luxury market through market segmentation and innovative marketing strategies. Particularly amidst ethical controversies and increasing consumer concerns about ecological issues, Hermes has enhanced its market competitiveness through initiatives such as ethical sourcing and environmental advocacy, establishing itself as a benchmark in corporate social responsibility (CSR). Additionally, starting from the definition of luxury goods, the study analyzes Hermes current brand development status, emphasizing brand management and marketing. Sustainable development as a core value continues to influence luxury brands marketing strategies, targeting specific middle and upper social classes to ensure brand image alignment with the identity and status of target consumers. Through an analysis of Hermes marketing strategies, this study provides insights into luxury consumers psychological needs and behavioral habits.

Traditional vs. AI-generated brand personalities: Impact on brand preference and purchase intention

This study evaluates how generative AI images align with consumer perceptions and impact consumer-brand relationships and purchase behavior. Using generative AI (ChatGPT 4 and DALL-E 3), images of luxury fashion brands were generated and assessed against established brand personalities. Findings show that AI-generated images effectively reflect brand personalities, significantly influencing consumer preferences and purchase intentions through self-brand connections. While traditional models have higher explanatory power, this research highlights the vital role of generative AI in marketing. The insights underscore AI's potential to shape consumer-brand dynamics, particularly among younger generations in the luxury market.

In Situ Velocity‐Strain Sensitivity Near the San Jacinto Fault Zone Analyzed Through Train Tremors

AbstractWe utilize train tremors as P‐wave seismic sources to investigate velocity‐strain sensitivity near the San Jacinto Fault Zone. A dense nodal array deployed at the Piñon Flat Observatory is used to detect and identify repeating train energy emitted from a railway in the Coachella valley. We construct P‐wave correlation functions across the fault zone and estimate the spatially averaged dt/t versus strain sensitivity to be 6.25 × 104. Through numerical simulations, we explore how the sensitivity decays exponentially with depth. The optimal solution reveals a subsurface sensitivity of 1.2 × 105 and a depth decay rate of 0.05 km−1. This sensitivity aligns with previous findings but is toward the higher end, likely due to the fractured fault‐zone rocks. The depth decay rate, previously unreported, is notably smaller than assumed in empirical models. This raises the necessity of further investigations of this parameter, which is crucial to study stress and velocity variations at seismogenic depth.

Drug utilization evaluation of ceftazidime-avibactam in a tertiary care hospital

Background: The World Health Organization considers antimicrobial resistance a major global threat, and ceftazidime-avibactam (CAZ-AVI) is a treatment for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections. The FDA approved its use in 2015 for infections with limited treatment options. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in a hospital in India to analyse the use of CAZ-AVI formulation in patients. Data was collected from electronic records and included information on patient demographics, clinical and microbiological profiles, antibiotic treatment, and patient outcomes for those in the ICU. Results: A total of 110 patients were included in the study. On assessing the results of this study, it was found that, the median age of population who received CAZ-AVI was 63 years and hypertension, diabetes mellitus were the common comorbidities present in the patients. Out of 110 subjects, 66 (60%) patients were started with a high-end antibiotic as an empirical therapy. While analysing the resistance pattern, it was found that 22 (20%) were resistant and 84 (76%) of the study subjects were sensitive to ceftazidime-avibactam. There was higher clinical success for BSI, CUTI, VAP amongst the indications of CAZ-AVI and combination of CAZ-AVI with aztreonam has given the most successful treatment outcome. The combination of CAZ-AVI with one or two high end antibiotics was observed as a common clinical practice. Conclusions: The analysis of results showed encouraging clinical cure rates. Our study results suggest that ceftazidime-avibactam could be an effective standard therapy for managing MDR Gram -negative organisms.