Preferred Product Research Articles

Personalized fund recommendation with dynamic utility learning

This study introduces a fund recommendation system based on the ϵ-greedy algorithm and an incremental learning framework. This model simulates the interaction process when customers browse the web-pages of fund products. Customers click on their preferred fund products when visiting a fund recommendation web-page. The system collects customer click sequences to continually estimate and update their utility function. The system generates product lists using the ϵ-greedy algorithm, where each product on the list has the probability of 1-ϵ of being selected as an exploitation strategy, and the probability of ϵ is chosen as the exploration strategy. We perform a series of numerical tests to evaluate the estimation performance with different values of ϵ.

Quarter of a century of contact lens prescribing trends in Australia (2000–2024)

ABSTRACT Clinical relevance Knowledge of contact lens prescribing trends can (a) assist practitioners to benchmark their own prescribing habits, (b) help the contact lens industry understand preferred products, and (c) support academics in scholarly writings. Background This work aims to document contact lens prescribing trends in Australia over the past quarter of a century. Methods An annual survey of contact lens prescribing trends was conducted in Australia each year from 2000 to 2024, inclusive, by asking optometrists to provide information relating to 10 consecutive contact lens fits undertaken between January and March. Results Over the 25-year survey period, a total of 20,281 contact lens fits were reported. Lens wearers were 34.4 ± 14.7 years of age and 65% were female. Over the survey period, rigid lenses increased from 13% to 21% of all lens fits. Of all soft lens fits, silicone hydrogel lenses increased from 22% to 96%; soft torics increased from 24% to 30%; daily disposables increased from 7% to 63%; soft extended wear decreased from 16% to 5%; multifocals increased from 5% to 26%; and myopia control (first fit in 2011) reached 3% by 2024. Rigid lens extended wear (primarily orthokeratology) increased from 0.3% to 17% of rigid lens fits, primarily for myopia control. Multi-purpose lens care solutions are ubiquitous, and peroxide systems are seldom prescribed. Rigid lenses and monthly replacement soft lenses are largely worn full time, whereas daily disposables are worn full time and part time in equal measure. Australian and global prescribing trends are broadly consistent. Conclusions Contact lens fitting trends this century can be characterised as: soft lenses – significant increase in silicone hydrogels, daily disposables, torics and multifocals; rigid lenses – dominance of high-Dk materials, and recent resurgence in scleral and orthokeratology fits. There is little extended wear fitting. Multi-purpose care systems are ubiquitous.

A broad spectrum Shigella vaccine based on VirG53–353 multiepitope region produced in a cell-free system

Dysentery caused by Shigella species remains a major health threat to children in low- and middle-income countries. There is no vaccine available. The most advanced candidates, i.e., O-polysaccharide (OPS)-based conjugates, have limited coverage—only against the immunizing serotype. Vaccines based on Shigella conserved proteins are sought for their simplicity and capacity to prevent disease caused by multiple serotypes. We previously reported the broad protective capacity of VirGα, a conserved surface-exposed domain of Shigella virulence factor. Seeking to refine the vaccine antigenic target and achieve scalable manufacturing compatible with Good Manufacturing Practices, we mapped linear B-cell epitopes spanning the entire VirG protein sequence by probing the immune reactivity of 10-mer peptides (overlapping 4–8 aa) with sera from Shigella-infected rhesus monkeys. The surface-exposed VirG53–353 subregion of the passenger α-domain demonstrated the highest and strongest immunoreactivity. VirG53–353 was produced efficiently at a large scale (>150 mg/L) using cell-free protein synthesis. When administered to mice intramuscularly, VirG53–353 elicited robust antibody responses and conferred high levels of protection against the three most prevalent Shigella serotypes (S. flexneri 2a, 3a, and S. sonnei). VirG53–353 evoked the production of Th2-type cytokines by spleen cells from vaccinated mice. A new universal Shigella vaccine based on VirG53–353 meets the World Health Organization’s preferred product specifications. The target antigen refinement and production improvement described here will facilitate the first-in-human studies.

AI-Driven Customers Segmentation Using K-Means Clustering

Effective customer segmentation is essential for businesses to enhance marketing strategies and improve customer engagement. This study applies K-Means clustering to segment customers based on demographic and behavioral data collected through structured surveys and questionnaires. The dataset includes attributes such as age, income, purchase frequency, product preferences, and brand loyalty. Data preprocessing involved normalization, imputation, and encoding to ensure quality and suitability for clustering. The optimal number of clusters was determined using the Elbow Method and Davies-Bouldin Index, resulting in three distinct segments: High-Spending, Frequent Shoppers, Price-Sensitive, Infrequent Shoppers, and Brand-Loyal, Moderate Shoppers. These clusters provide actionable insights for businesses, enabling tailored strategies such as loyalty programs, discounts, and targeted promotions. The Davies-Bouldin Index score of 1.27 and visualization using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) validated the effectiveness and distinctiveness of the segmentation. This research highlights the potential of AI-driven methods like K-Means clustering in uncovering hidden patterns in customer behavior, offering a robust alternative to traditional segmentation approaches. Future studies could explore larger datasets, integrate additional behavioral attributes, and compare the performance of other clustering algorithms to further enhance segmentation outcomes.

Analisis Persepsi Konsumen terhadap Citra Merek dan Harga dalam Keputusan Pembelian Hand and Body Lotion Vaseline pada Mahasiswa

In the marketing domain, brand image and price are pivotal factors influencing consumer purchasing decisions. This study aims to analyze the perceptions of university students regarding the balance between brand image and price in purchasing Vaseline hand and body lotion. Using a qualitative approach, data were gathered through a systematic literature review and secondary sources, focusing on consumer behavior and skincare product preferences. The findings reveal that students perceive Vaseline as a high-quality brand offering clear skincare benefits. However, price remains a significant determinant due to the limited budgets typical of this demographic. This research contributes to theoretical understanding and provides practical insights for developing marketing strategies targeting university students by aligning brand communication and pricing strategies with their needs and preferences.

Novel Perspectives for Sensory Analysis Applied to Piperaceae and Aromatic Herbs: A Pilot Study.

Spices and aromatic herbs are important components of everyday nutrition in several countries and cultures, thanks to their capability to enhance the flavor of many dishes and convey significant emotional contributions by themselves. Indeed, spices as well as aromatic herbs are to be considered not only for their important values of antimicrobial agents or flavor enhancers everybody knows, but also, thanks to their olfactory and gustatory spectrum, as drivers to stimulate the consumers' memories and, in a stronger way, emotions. Considering these unique characteristics, spices and aromatic herbs have caught the attention of consumer scientists and experts in sensory analysis for their evaluation using semi-quantitative approaches, with interesting evidence. In this pilot study as a first step, each studied botanical, belonging to Piperaceae or aromatic herbs, has been subjected to headspace solid phase micro-extraction (HS-SPME) coupled with gas-chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis to assess their spontaneous volatile emission, representing the complex chemical pattern, which encounters the consumers' olfactory perception. Furthermore, the present investigation, performed on 12 individuals, outlines the administration of a pilot study, merging the typical sensory analysis with emotional data collection and the innovative contribution related to the study around the Autonomic and Central Nervous System activation in consumers, performed using wearable technologies and related signal processing. The results obtained by our study, beyond demonstrating the feasibility of the approach, confirmed, both in terms of emotional responses and biomedical signals, the significant emotional potential of spices and aromatic herbs, most of which featuring an overall positive valence, yet with inter-subjects' variations. Future investigations should aim to increase the number of volunteers evaluated with such an approach to draw more stable conclusions and attempting a customization of product preferences based on both implicit and explicit sensory responses.

Dissecting the dichotomy: unveiling the preference for Turkish products by Tunisian consumers

Dissecting the dichotomy: unveiling the preference for Turkish products by Tunisian consumers

The potential impact of environmental goods trade liberalization on trade and emissions

We combine econometric estimation with quantitative modeling to generate projections on the trade, GDP, and emissions effects of a potential trade liberalization agreement involving energy-related environmental goods (EREGs) and environmentally preferable products (EPPs). Trade liberalization can contribute to reduced emissions in two ways in our projections: (i) a reduction of import prices of goods promoting energy efficiency; and (ii) a reduction in the costs of intermediate and capital goods used in the production of electricity from renewable-energy sources. Four scenarios are evaluated, combining reductions in tariffs and non-tariff measures (NTMs) for EREGs and EPPs. Using simulations with the WTO Global Trade Model we find (i) an increase in exports of EREGs and EPPs both at the global level and in most regions; (ii) a modest increase in GDP in all regions because of falling tariffs, NTMs, and increased energy efficiency; and (iii) a modest reduction in global emissions of about 0.6%. The dominant channel is energy efficiency, whereas the costs of EREGs as intermediates in renewable energy production play a minor role, with or without end-use control.

Case study of potential design perceptions for 3D printed accessories made of used face masks

<p>This study aimed to explore consumer perceptions and acceptance of potential 3D-printed accessories made from used face masks. Based on the principles of the circular economy, a proposed conceptual framework was developed to determine the role of experiential value in the relationship between product design perception and perceived purchase intention. Data were collected through a web-based survey questionnaire, employing a nationwide convenience sample of consumers via crowdsourcing marketplaces. Among the 899 respondents, 470 were female, and 429 were male, with an average age of 38. A structural equation model was used to test the hypotheses in the proposed conceptual framework. The findings indicated that consumer experience plays a crucial role in significantly enhancing purchase intentions for 3D-printed accessories made from used face masks. Participants identified jewelry, electronic cases, and home decor items (e.g., picture frames) as the top three preferred product categories for 3D printing. Usability, social value, and environmental concerns emerged as the most influential components of consumer experience in driving purchase intentions for 3D-printed accessories. Additionally, the study confirmed the mediating role of consumer experience between design perception and purchase intention. These findings provide opportunities to rethink, redesign, and reimagine environmentally responsible, socially inclusive, and economically viable practices. The development of new 3D printing filaments using recycled plastic-based materials further aligned with 3D-printed accessories. Finally, this study offers a critical bridge between academia and industry, paving the way for a sustainable future through innovation in design and manufacturing.</p>

A Study on Chinese High School Girls' Consumer Behavior Toward the Korean Cosmetic Brand 3CE

This study employs a mixed-methods approach to investigate the consumption behavior of Chinese high school girls toward the Korean cosmetic brand 3CE. A structured questionnaire with 20 questions collected quantitative data on brand cognition, purchasing frequency, expenditure, and product preferences from a substantial sample of participants. The findings reveal that 75% of respondents exhibit strong brand awareness, with 65% purchasing 3CE products monthly, predominantly through online channels (82%). Qualitative in-depth interviews provided valuable insights into the emotional connections and motivations driving these behaviors, revealing that factors such as social media influence and peer recommendations significantly impact purchasing decisions. The analysis underscores the importance of effective marketing strategies tailored to this demographic and highlights potential risks associated with high consumer expectations, which can lead to dissatisfaction. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for 3CE to balance online and offline retail strategies, ensuring consistent product quality while promoting responsible consumption. These insights are vital for enhancing brand loyalty and maintaining a competitive advantage in the rapidly evolving cosmetics market.

Research on adapting marketing techniques to different culture economics and regulatory environment to entering new international markets

The study focuses on how products from emerging markets are sold abroad. According to case studies, companies actively seek out countries with a large Bangladeshi diaspora and hire locals who are familiar with business culture. Manufacturers' globalization is aided by this strategy since it raises their profile and fosters understanding with local buyers. The cultural literature benefits from illuminating the ways in which collectivism and the avoidance of ambiguity promote marketing strategy, trust, and networks. It proposes a modern, people-focused IM approach that is innovation-driven, shaped by customer preferences for food products, and that places an emphasis on the contributions of diaspora. Organizations’ potential use of globalization to access hitherto untapped markets is also explored in the research. Corporations' strategies and methods for penetrating these markets face both opportunities and threats as a result of globalization. The qualitative study looks at characteristics related to international market entrance and global expansion based on previous research. The results demonstrate how businesses may become more globally competitive by adapting to cultural and behavioral differences and selecting the most effective market entrance strategies. The significance of varied commodities, works, and services for international economic activity is shown in this research, which lends credence to globalization and market entrance methods.

Impact of Environmental Protection Tax on Enterprise Capital-Labor Allocation in the Context of High-Quality Economic Development

Using a double-difference model, this paper examines the impact of the 2018 Environmental Protection Tax Law of the People’s Republic of China on the capital-labor ratio of A-share listed enterprises in China. The results indicate that the implementation of the environmental protection tax significantly increases the capital-labor ratio of firms, leading to a preference for capital-intensive production. The mediating role of total factor productivity (TFP) in this process suggests that the environmental protection tax enhances the capital-labor ratio by fostering TFP growth. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that the effect of the environmental protection tax on the capital-labor ratio is more pronounced in economically developed regions, state-owned enterprises, and enterprises with a longer operational history.

Exploring Customer Experience Drivers in Night Markets: Examining the Roles of Product Preference, Service Quality, and Facility Accessibility

This study investigates the critical factors shaping customer experiences in night markets, emphasizing product preferences, quality of services provided, and accessibility of facilities. As integral hubs of cultural exchange, community engagement, and tourism, night markets contribute significantly to local economies and cultural heritage preservation. However, research on customer experience in these dynamic environments remains limited. Using a structured questionnaire, data were collected from 201 night market visitors through a purposive sampling. The study utilized structural equation modeling (SEM) to assess the interconnections between the primary variables. The findings reveal that product preference has a substantial positive impact on customer experience (β = 0.465, p < 0.001) along with service quality (β = 0.209, p < 0.01) and facility accessibility (β = 0.585, p < 0.001). Both service quality and facilities play pivotal roles in shaping customer satisfaction and experiences, either directly or indirectly. The results underscore the importance of tailored product offerings, consistent service quality, and well-maintained facilities for fostering satisfaction and loyalty. This study provides practical insights for vendors by emphasizing the value of understanding customer preferences, ensuring operational efficiency, and enhancing facility provisions. These findings contribute to theoretical frameworks on customer experience, enrich the knowledge base for night market operations, and offer actionable strategies for sustainable market development and customer engagement.

A Gender-Based Analysis on Online Shopping Decision-Making

This paper focuses on understanding the factors like relative advantage, trust, social influence and personal experience influence on online buying intention. Also, we assess if gender plays a moderating role in online buying. The sample size consists of 256 online buyers from Bangalore city. Seven products are selected for the study namely clothing, cosmetic, education, health, music, organic food and smart phones. The study aims to find if there exists a difference in product purchases made online among gender. The factors that influence most in online purchase is analysed. Factor analysis, Chi Square and regression are conducted to analyse the data for the study. The results show that there are differences in the opinion on online purchase as well as the product preferences among gender. The factors which influence male respondents are merchant trustworthiness and personal online experience whereas for female respondents the factor influencing is personal online experience. It is observed that gender plays moderately significant role on the factors influencing online buying intentions.

A comparison of routine [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 preparation using Locametz and Illuccix kits

BackgroundApproval of Locametz and Illuccix kits for the manufacture of [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 (gallium Ga68 gozetotide), a PET imaging agent for prostate cancer, as well as the corresponding therapeutic ([177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 Pluvicto), has led to a rapid increase in demand for [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 PET imaging. Radiopharmaceutical manufacturers, using 68Ge/68Ga generators, may decide to adopt Locametz and/or Illuccix kits, which requires a comparison to select the most suitable kit for day-to-day use. The objective of this article is to compare both kits and provide guidance for selecting one for routine use, as well as evaluate labeling consistency of both kits during routine production. Additionally, we report our experience during 1.5 years of daily [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 production at our facility using both kits.ResultsLocametz (n = 181) and Illuccix (n = 256) kits were prepared using non-silicone coated and silicone-coated needles with 68Ga activities ranging from 0.53 to 3.16 GBq, with a failure rate of 1 in 128 runs for both kits. With Locametz, a 3.7 GBq generator and 10-min incubation at room temperature gave doses that passed quality control (QC) testing. Use of non-silicone coated needles in the process led to solution discoloration, and QC failure. Additionally, lack of vial inversion led to inconsistent labeling, which improved with subsequent vial agitation. For Illuccix, addition of the acetate buffer to the precursor vial prior to adding the [68Ga]GaCl3 simplifies the workflow. The maximum tolerated activity was 1.85 GBq. Lack of vial inversion led to failures, which were rectified by agitating the vial to properly incorporate the acetate solution with the generator eluate.ConclusionsBoth kits benefited from using a syringe pump to elute the 68Ge/68Ga generator, vial agitation, and longer length/smaller bore silicone coated needles. Both kits have similar workflows, comparable QC outcomes, and result in equivalent clinical images. Thus, the decision between kits will ultimately be determined by production preferences. Since radiopharmacies have an established “kit-based” workflow, Locametz kits with higher allowed activities and longer shelf-life may offer benefits. Conversely, more traditional PET manufacturing facilities might benefit from using Illuccix kits due to compatibility with cyclotron-produced [68Ga]GaCl3 allowing for kit batching. Ultimately, the commercial availability of 2 approved kits for production of [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 PET has facilitated ready access to this important new imaging agent.

Nutilor (Moringa Leaf and Chicken Liver Nuggets) as Food for Stunting Prevention

Providing complementary foods for breast milk (MP-ASI) is very important because the age of >6 months to 2 years, nutrients are needed to support children's growth and development during the golden period. Nuggets are a high-protein food. Modifications were made to increase the nutritional value by adding chicken liver and Moringa leaves and substituting them with Nutilor (Moringa Leaf Liver Nuggets). The research aims to analyze panelists' nutritional value and acceptability regarding the color, aroma, taste, and texture aspects of Nutilor products, as well as knowing market analysis and product prices. The method was an experiment conducted in the Food Laboratory, Nutrition Department, Poltekkes Kemenkes Tanjung Karang. Nutilor with chicken liver substitution, namely: F1 (14%), F2 (16%), F3 (18%), F4 (20%). Organoleptic testing using the hedonic test method (color, aroma, taste, texture, and overall acceptability) was conducted with 75 panelists and one replication. The most preferred Nutilor products are analyzed for their nutritional content, determining food costs and selling prices. Data were analyzed univariately using the Likert scale method. The organoleptic test results showed that the most preferred formula was F3 (90:25), with a nutritional value per serving (60 grams), namely E 171.2 kcal, P 9.1 g, L 8.2 g, KH 16.1, fiber 0.16, iron (Fe) 2.6 mg, the selling price per portion is IDR. 5000. The preferred product is F3, and based on the Likert scale, each formula has different colors and aromas. In further research, you need to pay attention to the time and temperature when frying and measure the amount of lemon used during marination.

GENERATION Z INVOLVEMENT IN HALAL ECOSYSTEM

Generation Z's involvement in the halal ecosystem in Indonesia, which has the largest Muslim population in the world, with a population of 277.53 million, of which 86% are Muslim, Indonesia has great potential to become a global halal product center. Generation Z, which consists of around 75.49 million people or 28% of the total population, shows high awareness of the halal lifestyle, which is reflected in their consumption patterns which are more critical and selective towards halal products. Generation Z influences their preferences for halal products, including easy access to information through social media and attention to health, sustainability, and social justice. Their involvement in the halal ecosystem is not only as consumers, but also as agents of change that can encourage the growth of the halal industry in Indonesia. In order to improve halal education and awareness programs among Generation Z through seminars, workshops, and information campaigns on social media, as well as involving halal industry practitioners. Thus, it is hoped that Generation Z can contribute significantly to the development of the halal market in the future, in line with existing regulations, such as Law No. 33 of 2014 concerning Halal Product Assurance. The active involvement of Generation Z in the halal ecosystem in Indonesia shows great potential for the growth and development of a sustainable halal industry.

Predictions of Muslim Middle Class Consumer Behavior in Indonesia in 2025

This research intended to predict the behavior of Muslim middle class consumers in Indonesia in 2025. The rapid growth of the Muslim middle class in Indonesia creates great opportunities for various sectors, especially the halal industry, fashion, and tourism. To understand these changes in consumption patterns, research methods using a quantitative approach with survey methods. Data was collected through an online questionnaire distributed to 100 respondents representing the Muslim middle class in Indonesia. Apart from that, in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 sources from economic experts, sociologists, celebrities, public figures and industry players. Data analysis was carried out using the multiple regression method to identify the main factors that influence consumption behavior, such as income, preference for halal products, and use of digital technology. Results and Discussion research shows that by 2025, middle class Muslim consumers in Indonesia are likely to increasingly prioritize products that comply with sharia principles, such as halal products and ethically based services. In addition, the trend of online shopping and the use of digital technology in purchasing decisions is predicted to continue to increase, along with increasing digital literacy among the public. Other significant influencing factors include awareness of sustainability and healthy lifestyles. This research also found that the role of social media is very important in influencing the preferences of middle class Muslim consumers, especially in terms of product information and customer reviews. Thus, the results of this research provide strategic insight for industry players to develop products and services that suit the needs and values ​​of Muslim consumers. It is also hoped that this research can contribute to the literature on consumer behavior in Muslim markets and become the basis for further studies in understanding consumption dynamics in Indonesia

Social crowding increases tourists’ preference for natural products: the effect of ontological security threat and social connectedness

Crowding in tourism happens frequently and mainly leads to negative reactions from tourists. Tourists’ non-negative behavioral reactions to social crowding have not been systematically explored. This research explored the influence of social crowding on tourists’ preference for natural products. We considered two types of natural products in the tourism field: natural environment products (e.g. natural destinations) and natural material products (e.g. organic products provided in tourist destinations). The results of three experimental studies indicated that social crowding stimulated tourists to exhibit a stronger preference for natural products as a means of coping with ontological security threat. This effect was buffered when tourists had a stronger perception of social connectedness. The findings offer novel theoretical and practical insights and expand the literature on social crowding in tourism and the sustainable development of tourism by proposing a positive effect of social crowding on tourists’ preference for natural products and focusing on tourists’ well-being.

Treatment of the Temples: Brazilian Consensus.

The temporal region is emblematic and challenging due to its structural and volumetric changes during aging, which significantly affect facial aesthetics. Despite the importance of addressing temporal aging, many injectors hesitate due to the region's anatomical complexity and risk of complications. This consensus aimed to provide expert guidance on the safest and most effective treatment strategies for the temple. Twelve Brazilian dermatologists and plastic surgeons with expertise in cosmiatry participated in a survey of 54 objective and one open-ended question to identify best practices. The results were analyzed for consensus, with agreement categorized as a simple majority (50-75%), consensus (> 75%), or strong consensus (> 95%). Participants agreed that volumization (100%), lifting (90%), and restructuring (82%) are essential for temporal rejuvenation. Hyaluronic acid (HA) was the preferred product for volumization and structuring, with the subcutaneous plane identified as the best option for both. There was no consensus on the product for lifting, though 45.5% favored poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). Biostimulants such as PLLA and calcium hydroxyapatite were commonly used, with specific dilution strategies. Complications reported included hematomas and nodules, particularly with HA and PLLA. The consensus emphasized the importance of anatomical knowledge and product selection in achieving safe and long-lasting results in temporal rejuvenation. It provided clear recommendations for injection techniques and product choices, advocating for subcutaneous plane treatments for beginners. The findings highlight the need for expert-driven approaches to reduce the risk of complications and optimize patient outcomes in this sensitive region. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .