Popular Brands Research Articles

Prevalence and identification of Bacillus species in cellophane, foil, and disposable plastic containers used for food packaging

Background: Foil, cellophane, and disposable plastic containers are commonly employed in food packaging, namely as coatings on food items. Nevertheless, the existence of microbes on the surface and inside the internal composition of these materials gives rise to concerns, as they have the capacity to multiply under ideal circumstances and spread to food items, thereby jeopardizing the safety and quality of the food. Objective: This study aimed at examining the number of microorganisms and identifying specific bacterial species within frequently used food packaging materials like foil, cellophane, and disposable plastic containers. Methods: samples of foil, cellophane, and disposable plastic containers were collected from various popular brands in Iran. The overall bacterial count wضas determined using defibering, flooding, and smear techniques followed by culturing on Tryptone Glucose Extract Agar (TGEA) medium. To identify the bacterial species, various biochemical tests were performed, including fermentation, motility testing, catalase test, oxidase test, and methyl red-Voges Proskauer (MR-VP) test. Results: Bacterial quantity ranged from 0 CFU/g to 8.3 × 103 CFU/g in analyzed samples. All the samples had primary contaminants mainly Bacillaceae family bacteria that could produce spores. Disposable plastic containers had the lowest bacterial count whereas cellophane showed the highest bacterial contamination level. Among Bacillaceae family members Bacillus licheniformis was dominant. Conclusion: The study's findings emphasize the possibility of microbial contamination in food packaging materials, including cellophane. These results indicate that the food packaging industry should adopt a rigorous approach to hazard evaluation and Important Control Points (HACCP) in order to guarantee the microbiological safety and efficacy of packaging materials.

Identifying Topics Around Nicotine Gum: A Machine Learning Approach with Twitter Data

Background Nicotine gum products from brands like Lucy and Rogue are relatively new arrivals to the tobacco marketplace. While studies of correlates of nicotine gum use are in their nascent stage, data from social media can be used to stay abreast of user experiences with novel tobacco products. This study leveraged machine learning to identify topics of Twitter posts about nicotine gum from the year 2022. Methods Twitter data was collected using the Twitter Application Programming Interface (API), with search terms “nicotine” AND “gum” OR “nic” AND “gum”. 16,940 tweets from 10,353 unique users were included in the analysis. Topic modeling with Top2Vec was used to identify topics and a string search of popular brands and flavors was also conducted. Results Eight distinct topics were identified. Smoking and vaping cessation was the most common topic, followed by promotion, pricing, and marketing; appeal; product comparisons; perceived benefits; distrust in institutions; health concerns; and COVID-19 misinformation. The most mentioned brand was Nicorette. A tenth of the tweets contained a reference to a flavor. Conclusion The goal of identifying topics in nicotine gum-related conversations is to better understand the public’s perceptions and experiences with nicotine gum. These findings may be used to inform survey-based research, policy targets, and health communication campaigns.

Characteristics and ingredients of disposable 'Elfbar' e-cigarettes sold in the United States and the United Kingdom.

As of 2023, Elfbar remains the most popular brand of disposable e-cigarette available in the United States (US) and United Kingdom (UK), with similar flavor options in both countries. At the time of this study, 5% nicotine Elfbar BC5000 was the only version available in the US, whereas 2% Elfbar 600 was the most popular in the UK. This study measured differences in nicotine content and form, aerosol emissions and flavoring chemicals in the US and UK Elfbar products. A convenience sample of eight Elfbar devices sold in the US and UK, consisting of two Elfbar models with four identical flavor options (Peach Ice, Strawberry Banana, Strawberry Ice and Strawberry Kiwi) purchased between December 2022 and February 2023, were laboratory tested. We measured nicotine concentration, form and total content. We also determined aerosol emissions and estimated the nicotine dose delivery per puff. We identified solvents and flavoring chemicals in these products. Elfbar products within the same country had similar nicotine content, concentration, form and solvents, but they differed in flavoring chemicals. US Elfbar contained, on average, higher volume (mean ± standard deviation = 6.5 ± 0.5 versus 1.8 ± 0.3ml) of nicotine solution with a higher concentration (41.8 ± 2.3 versus 19.7 ± 1.2mg/ml) than the UK Elfbar. An estimated dose of nicotine delivered per puff was four times higher from US Elfbar than UK Elfbar. There were differences in the type and amount of flavoring chemicals used in US and UK Elfbars, including a higher concentration of a synthetic coolant WS-23 in US Elfbar than in UK Elfbar (17.8 ± 1.5 versus 12.9 ± 5.4mg/ml). Because the amount of nicotine found in the US Elfbar e-cigarettes is equivalent to that found in eight UK Elfbar e-cigarettes, people who use Elfbar sold in the US have access to much more nicotine from a single device than those who use Elfbar sold in the United Kingdom.

CONSUMER PREFERENCES IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS IN DEVELOPING AND DEVELOPED COUNTRIES

This study has taken into consideration the most important factors that influence consumers’ choice of clothing by analyzing some of the most popular brands in the market. The study was completed in two countries making a comparison between the preferences of consumers in a developed and developing country. The method used is the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), which, by structuring the problem, makes it easier to classify the criteria that influence consumers’ evaluation of clothing brands. Six main criteria, sixteen sub-criteria, and different fast fashion brands were considered. The results of this method revealed different priorities regarding the criteria between the two regions even though the most preferred brand was the same. These results help the companies included in the study to not only improve their products, but to have a better approach to the customer, and strengthen their competitiveness.

Research on the Problem Analysis and Localization Marketing Strategy of Nike in China

This paper explores Nike’s evolving localization strategies in the Chinese market. It traces Nike’s journey from its initial entry into China to its significant growth, highlighting several key strategies. These include releasing limited edition products aligned with Chinese festivals, collaborating with influential local Chinese brands, securing endorsements from prominent Chinese sports celebrities, and sponsoring youth sports events such as the China National High School Basketball League. Additionally, Nike has actively engaged in community responsibilities and leveraged the Internet to expand its sales channels. Nike’s strategy of aligning limited edition releases with Chinese cultural events has resonated deeply with local consumers, creating a sense of exclusivity and cultural relevance. Collaborations with popular local brands have further enhanced its appeal and market penetration. Endorsements from Chinese sports celebrities have bolstered Nike’s image and credibility among local audiences. Sponsoring youth sports events has not only increased brand visibility but also fostered a connection with the younger generation. Furthermore, Nike’s commitment to community engagement and adept use of digital platforms have significantly expanded its reach and sales. These initiatives have collectively enabled Nike to continuously expand its presence and increase sales in the Chinese market, demonstrating a successful model for international brands seeking to localize effectively in diverse markets.

Microplastics contamination in popular soft drinks and non-alcoholic beverages marketed in Iran: Quantity and characteristics

Given the increasing reliance on plastic packaging in the beverage industry, this study investigates the presence of microplastics (MPs) in the most popular beverage brands in the Iranian market. A total of 19 bottled beverage brands, including soft drinks and non-alcoholic beverages, were randomly collected and filtered. Quantitative analysis of the MPs was then performed using stereomicroscopy and fluorescence techniques, and classification was based on color, shape, and size. In addition, the polymer type was determined using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and the surface morphology and elemental composition of the MPs were examined using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The results showed that approximately 80–90 % of the samples were contaminated with different MP types, with an average of 4.5 ± 4.8 particles/L detected by stereomicroscopy and 21.90 ± 25.72 particles/L by fluorescence microscopy. FT-IR analysis identified polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene (PE) as the predominant polymer types and may clarify the possible role of packaging materials in the contamination of MPs. Fragments accounted for the highest proportion of MPs (71 %), followed by fibers (29 %). The size distribution of MPs was dominated by particles in the range of 1–500 μm (48 %), followed by 500–1000 μm (40 %) and 1000–1500 μm (12 %). MPs were black (84 %), with smaller proportions of red (7 %) and green (1 %), which may reflect the source of the contamination. The findings emphasize the necessity of increased monitoring and the application of countermeasures to lessen MPs contamination in the beverage sector.

HR-brand: features of formation and development

Relevance. The development of HR management stems from the need for organizations to attract and retain highly qualified employees in the competitive environment of the modern labor market. HR branding is a strategy based on the formation and support of a positive image of the company in the eyes of employees, as well as the company's commitment to the principles and values that bind employees and the organization. Positive evaluations of the organization's employees and their recommendations can attract new specialists and strengthen the company's reputation as a reliable and attractive employer.The purpose of the article is to study a special category of reputation and perception of the company – the HR brand.Objectives: to study the conditions for building an HR brand, its structure and key elements; to consider the history of the origin of the idea of HR branding; to assess the interest in creating a special reputation in the field of human resource management; to justify why it is impossible to build an EVP (employer's value proposition) without HR branding.Methodology. In the course of scientific research, empirical, theoretical, statistical methods and methods of graphical representation were used.Results: the theoretical aspects of building a company's HR brand were studied; the popularity of this topic in science and business was shown. A set of knowledge about the features of HR branding in the Russian and foreign markets has been formed and the prospects for the development of this area are shown. It shows why it is important to work on an HR brand and how to start forming a positive image of the company, its reputation and prestige.Conclusions. The article emphasizes the relevance and importance of the topic under consideration, taking into account the latest trends, prerequisites and prospects for new companies. The possibilities that open up for an employer when forming an original and popular HR brand are considered.

Health Risk of Heavy Metal and Genotoxicity of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Extra-Virgin Olive Oils (EVOO) Available in PortHarcourt Metropolis, Nigeria

This research aims at determining the loading of contamination of some popular brands of extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, with genotoxic PAHs and Heavy Metals to ascertain its safety for consumption. The health risk associated with these heavy metals will be calculated and assessed. Extra virgin olive oil has experienced a surge in its consumption all around the world owing to its high nutritional content. Contamination with genotoxic PAHs and Heavy Metals can cause severe health defects if consumed regularly. PAHs and heavy metals are two distinct groups of ubiquitous contaminants with grave health consequences such as Tumorigenesis, carcinogenesis, organ failures etc. Samples of EVOO were analysed with Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrophotometer and Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (FAAS) for PAHs and heavy metals respectively. After extraction with Dichloromethane and digestion with aqua regia (HCl/HNO3; 3:1) respectively, the results showed the presence of few genotoxic PAHs such as benzo[a]pyrene, PAH4 and PAH8 with concentrations above regulatory limits of 0.002µg/g, 0.01µg/g and 0.01µg/g respectively. Among the heavy metals, Pb and Cd showed the most alarming levels of contamination of the heavy metals, above regulatory limits of 0.1µg/g and 0.05µg/g, however, analysis with Health Risk Index of consumption showed all samples were safe for consumption.

Analysis and Detection of Heavy Metals Content in Some Selected Packaged Fruit Juices of Kathmandu City by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

The determination of level of heavy metals in packaged fruit juices is crucial, as extended exposure to even small quantities of these toxic element can cause severe health issues and chronic poisoning. Hence, it is essential to gather comprehensive data on the presence of heavy metals in packaged fruit juice samples. The objective of this research work is to determine heavy metals (Fe, Cu, Zn and Pb) in four different types of packaged fruit juice samples viz Apple, Mango, Orange and Lychee of four different popular brands bought from retail market of Kathmandu city by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy and compare with acceptable limit set by WHO/FAO. Wet acid digestion method was used for digestion process of packaged fruit juice samples. The concentration of Iron were ranged from 0.572-0.762mg/L in Orange juices; 0.362-0.624mg/L in Mango juices; 0.277-3.649mg/L in Apple juices; 0.279-1.770mg/L in Lychee juices respectively. Copper concentration were ranged from not detected (ND)-0.574mg/L in Orange juices; ND for all selected samples in Mango juices; ND- 0.023mg/L in Apple juices; ND-0.041mg/L in Lyclee juices. Similarly Zinc concentration were ranged from 0.0511-0.2026mg/L in Orange juices; ND-0.0700mg/L in Mango juices; ND for all selected samples in Apple juices; ND-0.0287mg/L in Lychee juices. The concentration of hazardous element Lead was found below detection limit in all selected packaged fruit juice samples. The heavy metals concentration in selected brand of packaged fruit juice samples was in following order: Fe>Zn>Cu> Pb. Int. J. Appl. Sci. Biotechnol. Vol 12(3): 158-165.

Synthetic Microplastics in UK tap and bottled water; Implications for human exposure

There is increasing concern for public health over inadvertent human exposure to MPs due to potential adverse health effects linked to MPs polymeric composition, toxic chemical additives, and/or harmful microorganisms adsorbing onto their surfaces. While numerous studies have reported MPs occurrence and risk in the freshwater aquatic environment and drinking water sources (e.g., rivers, lakes, and reservoirs), the current state-of-knowledge on MPs pollution in drinking water (i.e., tap water and bottled water) remains limited at a global level. This paper provides the first comprehensive study of the occurrence, concentrations, size distribution, shape, and polymer type of MPs in 177 tap water samples from 13 cities in the United Kingdom, as well as 85 samples of bottled water from 17 popular brands, with various packaging materials, on the UK market.MPs were detected in all tap water samples (range 6–100 MP/L) and bottled water samples (range 12–62 MP/L). Average MPs concentration in tap water (40 ± 16 MP/L) was statistically indistinguishable from that in bottled water (37 ± 11 MP/L). However, the average MPs particle size in tap water (32.4 μm) exceeded significantly (p < 0.05) that in bottled water (26.5 μm), indicating the various purification processes applied to bottled water may help remove larger MPs, but raises concern over the potential adverse health effects from exposure to smaller MPs. The most frequently detected polymer types were: polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in tap water, and PE, PP and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in bottled water. A strong correlation was observed (r = 0.68, P = 0.049) between the plastic cap material (PE) and the predominant polymer type in the bottled water. In terms of morphology, fragments and fibres were the most abundant MPs, together constituting 92 % and 96 % of MPs detected in tap and bottled water samples, respectively.Using EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) recommended daily water intakes, the corresponding exposures to MPs in different UK age groups were estimated. On a body weight (BW) basis, infants and toddlers were exposed (4 MP/kg BW/day) at a higher level than adults (1 MP/kg BW/day). This raises concern, given the former's incompletely developed immune/nervous systems rendering them at higher risk of adverse health effects from such exposure.

The challenges of investigating derived psychoactive cannabis product brand quality: Using a popular brand as an example

The challenges of investigating derived psychoactive cannabis product brand quality: Using a popular brand as an example

Trace element concentrations and associated human health risk assessment in canned tuna, city of Neyshabur, Iran

Seafood is considered a healthy and nutritious food, but the presence of toxic substances in such foods is a serious problem. The present study aimed to analyze the concentration of some toxic metals in seafood and evaluate their noncarcinogenic risks to consumers. Samples were digested according to the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) standard. The heavy metals concentration of Cd, Ni, Hg, Pb, and Sn in 30 canned tuna samples were determined using an inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The mean concentrations of Cd, Ni, Sn, Pb, and Hg were 0.7, 0.49, 1.03, 0.31, and 0.12 µg g− 1, respectively. Based on these results, the concentrations of Cd, Sn, and Hg in samples met the required standards. However, the concentrations of Ni and Pb in some samples were higher than the permissible limits. The mean values of Sn, Ni, Pb, Hg, and Cd in samples followed a decreasing order. Since the values of the health risk index for these samples were lower than the HI and HRI risk threshold (<1), they can be consumed without any problems arising. Highlights The metal concentration was measured in the four most popular brands of canned fish sold in Neyshabur City, Iran. Some samples exceeded the maximum permissible level of nickel (Ni) and lead (Pb). A significant correlation was observed between Ni concentration with Pb and Hg concentrations and Pb concentration with Cd concentration. The values of the health risk index (HRI) for noncarcinogenic health risks were lower than 1. The calculated Hazard index (HI) for adult and child consumers was less than 1. The HI values were greater for children than for adults.

Sex-specific alterations in pulmonary metabolic, xenobiotic and lipid signalling pathways after e-cigarette aerosol exposure during adolescence in mice

BackgroundE-cigarette use is now prevalent among adolescents and young adults, raising concerns over potential adverse long-term health effects. Although it is hypothesised that e-cigarettes promote inflammation, studies have yielded conflicting...

Karakteristik warna crayon dari pemanfaatan ekstraksi limbah kulit buah naga (hylocereus polyrhizus)

Background: Crayons are drawing equipment made from colored wax, charcoal, chalk, or other materials used for writing and coloring. Crayons are used in schools throughout the world because crayons are easy to use, do not make dirty, blunt, non-toxic, and have many colors. Findings: Crayons can be used from children to adults. Wax crayons are usually used by children to draw and color. One popular crayon brand is Crayola. Dragon Fruit Skin (Hylocereus polyrhizus) contains anthocyanin which can be used as a natural coloring agent for decorative preparations and also has antioxidant activity. Methods: Dragon fruit skin (Hylocereus polyrhizus) extraction has been carried out by means of dragon fruit peel extracted using the wet maceration method with 70% ethanol. The extract was then made into 2 crayon formulations with concentrations of 25% and 20%, respectively. The crayon formulation consists of paraffin wax and dragon fruit peel extract. The resulting crayons have a brownish color, and aromatic odor typical of dragon fruit peel extract. Conclusion: The results of the topical test obtained the best formula on the formula with the composition of the dragon fruit peel extract 25% and 75% paraffin wax. Based on the results of the topical test, this crayon can be used. It's just that the color and texture of crayons that are easily brittle and oily make the results of this research experiment not as expected.

Brand Teasing: How Brands Build Strong Relationships by Making Fun of Their Consumers

Abstract Popular brands like Wendy’s, Postmates, and RyanAir have gained notoriety by making fun of their consumers, but is this an effective strategy to build strong consumer relationships? Across 11 (seven pre-registered) studies, using lab data, field data, and a variety of analytical approaches, the current research demonstrates that teasing communication increases consumer engagement with and connection to the brand compared to merely funny or neutral communication. These effects occur because consumers anthropomorphize brands more when they use teasing communication. This leads to greater engagement with brand messages and greater self-brand connection (SBC). We also leverage the interpersonal teasing literature to distinguish between prosocial and antisocial teases and highlight an important boundary condition. Specifically, we demonstrate that while prosocial teasing evokes a positive human schema, antisocial teasing, although still anthropomorphic, activates a negative human schema, which reduces connection to the brand. As a result, antisocial teases lose their relational advantage over purely funny communication. This work contributes to the streams of research on brand humor, anthropomorphism, and consumer–brand relationships. It also provides actionable implications by demonstrating a novel antecedent to consumer–brand connection and the boundaries within which these positive effects are expected to occur.

PuppetMouse: Practical and Contactless Mouse Manipulation Attack via Intentional Electromagnetic Interference Injection

Mouse is a ubiquitous input tool crucial for user-computer interaction in modern society. However, the inherent trust in the mouse may pose security risks. If the mouse is maliciously manipulated, the connected computer could be secretly controlled, endangering personal privacy and property. In this paper, we introduce PuppetMouse, the first intentional electromagnetic interference (IEMI) injection-based attack that can effectively manipulate mouse clicks and movements without physical contact. By adjusting the parameters of IEMI signals, PuppetMouse can precisely control the click side, as well as the movement direction and speed. We demonstrate PuppetMouse's effectiveness on 14 wired and wireless mice from popular brands. The short response delay (within 4 ms) affirms the real-time performance of PuppetMouse. Robustness analysis across different attack distances and material occlusions validate the stability and reliability of PuppetMouse. Two case studies on firewall disabling and malicious WiFi connection further prove the severe threats of PuppetMouse in the real world. We also propose an integrated set of hardware and software-based defensive mechanisms to mitigate the risks posed by PuppetMouse.

The Influence of Sports Brand Image on Consumer Preferences and Behavioral Tendencies: Lululemon and Anta as Examples

Amidst the surging enthusiasm and demand for fitness activities, there is keen interest in understanding how sportswear brand preferences influence consumer behavioral tendencies. Given Lululemon's rapid global emergence as a contemporary brand icon and Anta's status as a popular national brand in China, this paper endeavors to compare the two, examining their impact on consumer behavior. The objective extends to offering recommendations for brand image cultivation and product design within the athletic apparel sector.

Chinese intimacies & consumer–culture–brand relations

ABSTRACT Two Western culture-inflected paradigms of intimacy dominate scholarship in the marketing and consumer behaviour disciplines: intimacy as interior-secrets-revealed and intimacy as knowledge-which-accumulates. This article decentres these concepts by exploring how intimacies in China emerge in complex co-created ways, from contextual settings, from the local construction of space and place, through kinship and its extensions, through ritual and embodied everyday practices, and through the situational instantiation of symbolic boundaries which separate the sphere of intimacy from the public and private spheres. The article shows how competing paradigms for intimacy, including the Western culture inflected paradigms, interact across diverse social domains in China, and further, how Chinese persons’ dispositions regards intimacy are shaped by broader processes of globalization. The article draws on autoethnography in China, as well as popular culture, social media, and brand communications analysis. It offers conclusions about how to theorize consumer-culture-brand relationships considering the analyses of intimacy explored throughout.

Analyzing the Impact of Barbie Movie on the Barbie Brand

On July 21, 2023, Barbie, the intellectual property (IP) movie of the same name as the Barbie brand, triggered a worldwide pink storm upon its release and drove the Barbie brand's popularity along with its box office success, making Barbie, which is now 65 years old, once again gain a very high level of attention and gain a great deal of revenue. Based on this phenomenon, the purpose of the exploratory was to explore the reasons why the movie would have such a great impact on the brand early. This article mainly took the Barbie movie as a case study, combined the existing data to analyze the business of the Barbie brand, and concluded that the reasons for the success of the Barbie brand's popularity include the launch of the Barbie IP movie that conforms to the brand's tone, the implementation of the strategic policy of co-branding with a number of brands, and the recent explosion of the topic of "feminism." At the same time, this article put forward suggestions for these three reasons why the Barbie brand has been able to continue to be hot: the Barbie brand can continue to launch IP movie sequels; to strengthen the screening of brands that are consistent with the values of the Barbie brand for co-branding; and to expand the scope of brand association.

Occurrence of aflatoxin M1 in cheese products commonly available in Sri Lankan market

Aflatoxins (AFs) are a group of mycotoxins produced by certain fungi of Aspergillus spp. AFs of major concern are B1 (AFB1), B2 (AFB2), G1 (AFG1), G2 (AFG2), and M1 (AFM1). AFM1 is a hydroxylated metabolite of AFB1 formed inside the animal's body which is excreted into milk of cows that consumed AFB1 contaminated feed. Consumption of AFM1-contaminated milk and subsequent dairy products causes negative health effects in consumers. This study was conducted to determine the occurrence and levels of AFM1 in cheese products available in the Sri Lankan market where AFM1 is not regularly monitored in milk while having an outdated regulatory limit of 1 ppb established for dairy products. Processed cheese (n = 28), hard cheese (n = 14), semi-hard cheese (n = 5), and soft cheese (n = 3) representing seven popular brands were collected. The samples were analyzed by Ultra High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Fluorescence Detection. AFM1 was detected in 40 samples (80 %), while 17 (34 %) and 37 (74 %) of the samples had AFM1 levels exceeding the maximum permitted limit set by Codex Alimentarius Commission (0.5 ppb) and the Netherlands (0.2 ppb). Further, 10 samples violated the Sri Lankan maximum limit of 1 ppb. Thirteen out of the 14 hard cheese (92.9 %, 0.11–14.43 ppb) and all semi-hard cheese samples (100 %, 0.29–0.65 ppb) contained AFM1. Most of the soft (66.7 %, 0.35–0.45 ppb) and processed (71.4 %, 0.11–1.35 ppb) cheese samples had AFM1. Most of the locally manufactured cheese products in Sri Lankan market may pose health risks to consumers. The results highlight the significance of regular monitoring of AFM1 in dairy products and the importance of updating regulations on par with international standards concurrently to ensure consumer safety.