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New product development (NPD) is crucial for helping companies to maintain competitive advantages. In this study, a methodological framework is presented combining a novel Kano model and fuzzy axiomatic design (FAD) for improving the product development capability in the whole NPD process. In the Kano model, a novel mixed-class classification method is presented to classify each evaluation indicator agreed on by the majority, and to calculate the affiliation value based on category strength (CS) to display the degree to which the indicator belongs to a certain attribute. A new importance ratio is also proposed to adjust the importance of each indicator attribute. This helps to achieve higher customer satisfaction and improve the attractiveness of the product or service. FAD is then used to measure the gap between customer satisfaction and the company's expected levels of satisfaction in terms of product functions. This enables the company to obtain more comprehensive information for decision-making. A case study is provided to verify the practicability of the proposed method. Sensitivity analysis proves the robustness of the results based on the number of respondents. Finally, comparative analysis with existing approaches demonstrates the strengths of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In current clinical practice, pharmaceutical companies use drug promotional literatures (DPLs) as a promotional tool to introduce new products entering into the market to medical practitioners. DPLs play a major role in providing important information about the drug to the health-care professionals and to convince them to prescribe the same. Aims and Objectives: The aims and objectives of the study are to evaluate the appropriateness of DPLs as per the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for rational drug promotion and for other information such as the pictures given and the presence of self-boasting words, if any. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted from December 2022 to May 2023 at a tertiary care teaching institute in southern Rajasthan, India. 330 DPLs, using convenient sampling, were collected in the form of hard and soft copies of flyers, leaflets, brochures, and pamphlets from various registered medical practitioners from a variety of departments and were evaluated based on the WHO guidelines. Results: A total of 330 DPLs were evaluated. Generic name was present in 98.2%, brand name in 97.9%, amount of active ingredient in 90%, name of manufacturer in 100%, and reference to scientific literature in 57.6%. About 75.5% of DPLs depicted photographs and 53% mentioned self-boasting words or phrases. Conclusion: Only few DPLs fulfilled all eleven criteria laid down by the WHO. Hence, doctors should not rely solely on promotional literature and appropriate policies must be made for vigilance of the DPLs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this study were to prepare butter and honey flavoured tiger nut oil oleogels with beeswax oleogelator and to compare them with the unflavoured control sample. The oleogels prepared with 10 wt% beeswax and 0.5 wt% of each flavour addition were analysed for main physicochemical, thermal, and structural properties. In addition, a trained panel described the samples with 11 sensory descriptive (hardness, spreadability, roasted, liquefaction, rancid, waxy, nutty, butter, honey, cooling, and mouth coating) terms. It was found that the oleogels melt around 52 °C and included β′ type polymorphs. The sensory data proved that the samples were quite well spreadable and had enough hardness to stay as solid-fat samples at room temperature. Further, addition of butter and honey flavours masked the waxy attribute. In conclusion, flavoured tiger nut oil-beeswax oleogels were new and successful products, and future studies with food applications are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article addresses a solution to an urgent problem, namely the development of a device for non-invasive dental diagnostics for the detection of caries in the early stages of its development. The diagnostic technique used in the device was based on laser-induced fluorescence using radiation sources with wavelengths of 405 and 635 nm. Results from studies of healthy and caries-affected tooth specimens demonstrated the high diagnostic capabilities of the technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Cuadernos del Centro de Estudios de Diseño y Comunicación is the property of Cuadernos del Centro de Estudios de Diseno y Comunicacion and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: The current study gives a quantitative analysis DT literature over the past ten years in domain of management and business where the field has witnessed a proliferation in studies. The study's primary areas of concentration were analyzing historical trends and identifying prospective future research opportunities in the field. Due of the way, it approaches innovation and problem-solving, design thinking has garnered a lot of interest from both academics and practitioners. Promoters and detractors, however, tend to have quite different perspectives on the program's core qualities, practicality and results. Design/methodology/approach: The study adopts a bibliometric approach to a systematic literature review, where the analyses and visualizations are carried out using R Studio (Biblioshiny package) and VosViewer software. The study was conducted on 518 documents extracted from the Scopus database. To identify past research trends in the field, performance analysis based on productivity and/or impact of the research constituents was carried out to understand the intellectual structure of the field. Findings: The study's findings indicated that few areas have received the most attention, which are presented as seven themes. While the emerging themes in the field include areas such as service design, service innovation, customer experience, innovation management, project management and 21st-century skills. Practical implications: The studies are going deeper by breaking down concepts or processes and analyzing one aspect at a time, codesign and prototyping are such subareas within the realm of service or new product design and development. Originality/value: This study is the first of its kind where a literature review has been conducted covering design thinking in the area of business management and accounting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review focuses on a set of studies about functional bakery products. The literature search was performed on scientific databases ScienceDirect, PubMed, MDPI, BOn, and SciELO, based on some eligibility criteria, and a total of 102 original research articles about functional bakery products were selected. The studies were analysed according to the types of products, functional properties, functional ingredients, their sources, and the types of measurements described. Results showed that breads were the most frequently analysed products. Most of the products were rich in fibre and antioxidants or were gluten-free. Of the 102 studies, 92 analysed physical properties, 81 involved chemical analyses, 50 involved sensorial analyses, and eight reported microbiological analyses. The most frequent physical properties were texture and colour, while the most frequent chemical components were fibre and minerals. For sensorial properties, colour and texture were particularly evaluated, which were also the most frequently measured physical properties. The studies presented various successful strategies for the fortification of bakery products with functional components, demonstrating their ability to meet consumer needs and potentiate industry growth. This review highlights the relevance of functional bakery products in the current food panorama, contributing to increased knowledge and stimulating discussions about the impact of functional bakery products in promoting healthier eating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manufacturers introduce updated‐generation products to meet intensified competition under trade‐in programs. Based on this phenomenon, we built a two‐period game‐theoretic model, in which the manufacturer sells the old‐generation product during both periods and considers whether to introduce the updated‐generation product in the second period. We find that under a static pricing strategy, if the costs of both products are low, the updated‐generation product's entry increases the old‐generation product's retail price. The manufacturer cannot benefit from introducing the updated‐generation product if the updated‐generation product's cost is high. Under a dynamic pricing strategy, the updated‐generation product entry benefits both the manufacturer and the consumer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acinetobacter baumannii emerged as one of the most important pathogens for the development of new antimicrobials due to the worldwide detection of isolates resistant to all commercial antibiotics, especially in nosocomial infections. Biofilm formation enhances A. baumannii survival by impairing antimicrobial action, being an important target for new antimicrobials. Fluopsin C (FlpC) is an organocupric secondary metabolite with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. This study aimed to evaluate the antibiofilm activity of FlpC in established biofilms of extensively drug-resistant A. baumannii (XDRAb) and the effects of its combination with polymyxin B (PolB) on planktonic cells. XDRAb susceptibility profiles were determined by Vitek 2 Compact, disk diffusion, and broth microdilution. FlpC and PolB interaction was assessed using the microdilution checkerboard method and time–kill kinetics. Biofilms of XDRAb characterization and removal by FlpC exposure were assessed by biomass staining with crystal violet. Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy was used to determine the temporal removal of the biofilms using DAPI, and cell viability using live/dead staining. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of FlpC on XDRAb was 3.5 µg mL−1. Combining FlpC + PolB culminated in an additive effect, increasing bacterial susceptibility to both antibiotics. FlpC-treated 24 h biofilms reached a major biomass removal of 92.40 ± 3.38% (isolate 230) using 7.0 µg mL−1 FlpC. Biomass removal occurred significantly over time through the dispersion of the extracellular matrix and decreasing cell number and viability. This is the first report of FlpC's activity on XDRAb and the compound showed a promissory response on planktonic and sessile cells, making it a candidate for the development of a new antimicrobial product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Automatisierungstechnik is the property of De Gruyter and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Automatisierungstechnik is the property of De Gruyter and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Product Identity (PI) is a strategic instrument for enterprises to forge brand strength through New Product Development (NPD). Concurrently, facing increasingly fierce market competition, the NPD for consumer emotional requirements (CRs) has become a significant objective in enterprise research and development (R&D). The design of new product forms must ensure the continuity of PI and concurrently address the emotional needs of users. It demands a high level of experience from designers and significant investment in R&D. To solve this problem, a generative and quantitative design method powered by AI, based on Shape Grammar (SG) and Kansei Engineering (KE), is proposed. The specific method is as follows: Firstly, representative products for Morphological Analysis (MA) are selected, SG is applied to establish initial shapes and transformation rules, and prompts are input into Midjourney. This process generates conceptual sketches and iteratively refines them, resulting in a set of conceptual sketches that preserve the PI. Secondly, a web crawler mines online reviews to extract Kansei words. Factor Analysis (FA) clusters them into Kansei factors, and the Grey Analytic Hierarchy Process (G-AHP) calculates their grey weights. Thirdly, after analyzing the PI conceptual sketches for feature extraction, the features are integrated with CRs into the Quality Function Deployment (QFD) matrix. Experts evaluate the relationships using interval grey numbers, calculating the optimal ranking of PI Engineering Characteristics (PIECs). Finally, professional designers refine the selected sketches into 3D models and detailed designs. Using a Chinese brand as a case study, we have designed a female electric moped (E-moped) to fit the PI and users' emotional needs. Through a questionnaire survey on the design scheme, we argue that the proposed innovative method is efficient, applicable, and effective in balancing the product form design of PI and user emotions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of EnvironmentAsia is the property of Thai Society of Higher Education Institutes on Environment and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: This study aims to analyze Islamic financial institutions' (IFIs) current financial engineering and product development procedures. Design/methodology/approach: The paper is quantitative in nature and the survey questionnaire were collected from managers and IF experts working for Islamic Banks, Takaful and other IFIs in Turkey, Malaysia and UAE. Two-stage structural equation modeling was used to test the hypothesis. Findings: The findings highlighted that the Shari'ah Supervisory Board, Strategy and Planning of IFIs, Legal and Regulatory framework, pricing of a new product and financial performance positively impact the new product development (NPD) process. At the same time, Islamic values have no significant positive impact. Research limitations/implications: When generalizing the research results, data collection from the right departments was the main limitation of the current study. Future research may opt to collect data only from Product Development Departments. Practical implications: The findings of this study will allow IFIs to reflect on their present methods, procedures and Shari'ah compliance framework for the NPD process. Originality/value: Factors affecting the product development and financial engineering process are discussed in the literature. The findings of this study can be regarded as building blocks for future academic research on product development and financial engineering in Islamic finance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globalization has transformed design practices, with multiculturalism influencing product and service development significantly. Incorporating global perspectives into design teams can be challenging. Learn how short documentary films inform and inspire designers to understand other cultures more effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: The rapid development of virtual reality technology and the Internet of Things (IoT) has provided new possibilities for user experience, and a variety of new products have emerged, especially in the field of painting, where the combination of these two provides a new platform for innovative artistic expression. OBJECTIVES: This study takes IoT products in the art field as an example to analyze the user experience in virtual reality environments and the impact of technological innovations on IoT products, as well as to explore the potentials and limitations of this emerging form of products and forms of painting. METHODS: In this study, the author constructed a virtual reality painting environment, utilized IoT technology to collect data from the user's painting process, and combined quantitative and qualitative analysis methods to assess user experience and technological innovation comprehensively. RESULTS: In the virtual reality environment, the user experience was significantly improved, and the users were more immersed in the painting process and felt more robust creativity and expression. Meanwhile, the application of Internet of Things (IoT) technology also provides more possibilities for drawing; for example, using smartpens makes the drawing process more smooth and natural. CONCLUSION: IoT painting with user experience and technological innovation in a virtual reality environment can provide a new creative platform for artists and bring a richer artistic experience to the audience, showing the feasibility and broad prospect of IoT products based on a virtual reality environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID‐19 pandemic has fundamentally changed how we work. Even after the pandemic, many companies offer their employees the option of working from home. Although working from home may offer several benefits, our understanding of whether employees are more creative when working from home or in an office is limited. To address this research gap, we conducted an experimental study with a German company whose employees usually work in an activity‐based workspace consisting of open, closed and informal spaces that can be used by employees depending on the task at hand. Employees self‐assessed their creative performance for different creative tasks (individual vs. team) and in different work environments (office vs. home office). Our findings reveal that for individual creative tasks (e.g. creating a presentation), employees are more creative when working from home (vs. in the office) because they experience higher levels of perceived psychological freedom (mediating effect). By contrast, for team creative tasks (e.g. developing ideas for a new product), employees reported being more creative when working in the office (vs. from home) due to higher levels of perceived psychological safety (mediating effect). Taken together, these findings enhance our understanding of when and how working from home (vs. in the office) may be beneficial for employees' creativity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study explores the motivation of consumers to join and participate in new product co‐creation, distinguishing between recruitment before, retainment during and finalizing of a co‐creation project. The research is based on follow‐up interviews with participants in a project covering the initial stages of new food product development (i.e., idea generation, idea screening and concept development) involving older consumers and carried out in a physical environment. Different motivation factors were deemed important by consumers before, during and at the closure of the project. Consumers joined the project motivated by curiosity and desire to meet new people. While performing the creative tasks, they continued the engagement due to the positive anticipation and enjoyment of new activities, as well as positive feedback loops. At the closure of the project, the usefulness of outcomes and the received recognition became important and strengthened the perceived creative self‐efficacy of participants. The findings offer useful recommendations for organizers of co‐creation, enabling the recruitment and retainment of consumers who could successfully deliver creative outputs and complete the project. The study offers novel insights relevant to participatory innovations looking at the temporal dimension of motivation to co‐create and highlights the dynamic changes in salience of the motivation factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current paper examines how corporate social responsibility (CSR) through three dimensions (social, environmental and governance) could influence technological and non‐technological innovations. The study is conducted on a longitudinal dataset of firms listed on the SBF1201 index between 2005 and 2016. It shows significant associations between CSR performance, particularly social and governance performances, and technological innovations introducing new products. The implementation of new processes is positively and significantly associated with environmental performance. Findings highlight that the three CSR dimensions have significant effects on management innovations. However, they did not influence marketing innovations. Finally, undertaking socially responsible projects does not drive significant changes in R&D strategy, specifically R&D expenditures and the number of hired scientists and experts, but it increases significantly the number of patents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a conceptual model of mediation effects that Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO) has on relationship between Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) and organizational performance. Empirical evidence suggests a very limited scope of ERM relation to performance, but full mediation effect of EO dimension innovation and proactivity is confirmed on relation between ERM strategic factor and new product development. Our research contributes scientifically because it is the first research that explores how ERM and EO interwind in companies. From the practical point of view, our results may be valuable to managers aiming to increase company's resilience by introducing innovation or are in the process of encouraging a more proactive behaviour. According to our findings, they may benefit from establishment of a sound ERM strategic framework prior to entering innovation or proactivity process, in terms of new product development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pomace is a by-product resulting from the pressing of fruits and vegetables into juices, and it is typically treated as waste. Interestingly, pomace contains minimal amounts of protein and fat but is characterized by its high polyphenol and dietary fiber contents, which may have health benefits for human physiology. Therefore, they are a potentially attractive raw material for the food industry, but to our knowledge, no smoothies with their addition have been prepared and described so far. Consequently, products derived from apple juice, incorporating different doses of fresh (6% and 12%) and dried (3% and 6%) black or red currant pomace, were formulated, and their physical properties, chemical composition, bioactive compound content, and health-promoting potential (in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic activity) were evaluated. Additionally, the products underwent sensory assessment by consumers. The fortified beverages exhibited different physical characteristics and chemical compositions than apple juice. All smoothies were characterized by higher concentrations of anthocyanins, flavonols, and procyanidin polymers compared to the base product. Moreover, 75% of them exhibited a significantly elevated phenolic acid content as well as a higher concentration of flavan-3-ols. The majority of fresh smoothies exhibited significantly higher in vitro antioxidant capacities and increased in vitro α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory effects compared to the base product. The highest ABTS activity was recorded in the variant with 6% dried black currant pomace. In turn, the smoothie with 3% dried red currant pomace had the most effective FRAP effect and, together with the product containing 12% fresh black currant pomace, ORAC antioxidant activity and α-glucosidase inhibition also. The introduction of 6% dried red currant pomace led to the creation of a beverage that most effectively inhibited α-glucosidase. The study showed that the application of various types of pomace, mainly that of black currant, into apple juice enables the development of new functional products with sensory attributes that are favorably evaluated by consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is effective in preventing HIV transmission, but uptake and adherence among young men who have sex with men (YMSM) remains suboptimal. New PrEP formulations may enhance PrEP use, but little is known about their acceptability. We enrolled 39 cis- and transgender YMSM (age 18–34) from Boston, MA; Jackson, MS; Birmingham, AL; and New Orleans, LA, who participated in video-based focus groups (n = 30) or in-depth interviews (n = 9) to examine how new PrEP products (e.g., injections, monthly pills, implants) are perceived and might be improved for YMSM. Focus groups were transcribed, coded, and analyzed using grounded theory and content analysis. Nearly half (46%) of participants were Black; 11% identified as Hispanic. Seventy-nine percent were PrEP experienced. Product preference was driven by the desire for flexible, safe, effective, and affordable PrEP options. A majority of participants preferred subcutaneous injections every 6 months or monthly pills dispersed in 3 or 4 doses. Subcutaneous injections and batched monthly pills were favored by those with demanding schedules and those who desired fewer provider visits; monthly pills were more appealing for those who feared needles. Despite broad preferences for longer-acting products for convenience, participants raised concerns regarding side effects and waning protection after missed doses. Participants felt that more education about safety and efficacy profiles of new products could influence their attitudes. These findings suggest that it is important to prioritize YMSM's dynamic lifestyles during product development, and that product safety and efficacy information should be accessible in youth-friendly language. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Accounting & Finance Management (JAFM). is the property of Dinasti Publisher and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Automotive Digest is the property of Automotive Digest Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of durum wheat separately substituted with flours of Abakaliki and Ofada rice varieties, and the optimum composite subsequent supplemented with defatted pigeon pea, on the quality attributes of pasta. The pasta, produced using standard methods, dried at 70 °C for 8 h, were evaluated for colour, proximate composition, functional, cooking, textural, and sensory attributes. Durum wheat flours separately substituted with flours (0–60%) of Abakaliki and Ofada rice varieties, resulted in acceptable pasta from the durum wheat: rice (80:20) mix. Subsequently, the durum wheat: rice mix (80:20) was supplemented with defatted pigeon pea (0–40%) to produce optimal pasta. Supplementation of durum wheat: rice (80:20) mix with defatted pigeon pea significantly increased protein (25.3–35.31%), dietary fibre (0.98–1.70%), cooking time (8.15–9.15 min), cooking loss (1.00–1.70%) and cooking yield (196.5–236.5%) of the pasta. These values were higher than wheat-rice pasta without pigeon pea flour which had lower protein (9.52–12.09%) and fibre (0.70–1.65%) contents. Pasta produced using the durum wheat: rice blends (80:20) supplemented with different ratios of pigeon pea mix showed good optimum cooking time (9.00 min), cooking yield (225%), colour (CIE L* = 43.91, a* = 2.08, b* = 13.74), hardness (111.80 N) and overall acceptability (5.75–6.70). Substitution of durum wheat with Abakaliki and Ofada rice varieties (20%), and blending of the composite (80:20) with pigeon pea (20%) for pasta manufacture showed improved pasta quality, which could lead to reduced pressure on durum wheat consumption and development of new products for local palate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patent keyword analysis is used to analyze the technology keywords extracted from collected patent documents for specific technological fields. Thus, various methods related to this type of analysis have been researched in the industrial engineering fields, such as technology management and new product development. To analyze the patent document data, we have to search for patents related to the target technology and preprocess them to construct the patent–keyword matrix for statistical and machine learning algorithms. In general, a patent–keyword matrix has an extreme zero-inflated problem. This is because each keyword occupies one column even if it is included in only one document among all patent documents. General zero-inflated models have a limit at which the performance of the model deteriorates when the proportion of zeros becomes extremely large. To solve this problem, we applied a Bayesian inference to a general zero-inflated model. In this paper, we propose a patent keyword analysis using a Bayesian zero-inflated model to overcome the extreme zero-inflated problem in the patent–keyword matrix. In our experiments, we collected practical patents related to digital therapeutics technology and used the patent–keyword matrix preprocessed from them. We compared the performance of our proposed method with other comparative methods. Finally, we showed the validity and improved performance of our patent keyword analysis. We expect that our research can contribute to solving the extreme zero-inflated problem that occurs not only in patent keyword analysis, but also in various text big data analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the impact of data-driven decision-making on innovation within startups. By utilizing a mixed-methods research design, the study integrates quantitative data from surveys and innovation performance metrics with qualitative insights from interviews and focus groups. The findings reveal that startups employing data-driven strategies demonstrate higher innovation outcomes, including the development of new products and revenue growth. The research highlights the importance of data literacy and a data-centric culture as key factors in maximizing the benefits of data-driven decision making. Additionally, leadership commitment is identified as crucial for successful adoption and implementation of data-driven strategies. The study underscores the potential of data-driven decision making to foster innovation within startups and provides recommendations for enhancing data-driven practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New fashion product sales forecasting is a challenging problem that involves many business dynamics and cannot be solved by classical forecasting approaches. In this paper, we investigate the effectiveness of systematically probing exogenous knowledge in the form of Google Trends time series and combining it with multi‐modal information related to a brand‐new fashion item, in order to effectively forecast its sales despite the lack of past data. In particular, we propose a neural network‐based approach, where an encoder learns a representation of the exogenous time series, while the decoder forecasts the sales based on the Google Trends encoding and the available visual and metadata information. Our model works in a non‐autoregressive manner, avoiding the compounding effect of large first‐step errors. As a second contribution, we present VISUELLE, a publicly available dataset for the task of new fashion product sales forecasting, containing multimodal information for 5,577 real, new products sold between 2016 and 2019 from Nunalie, an Italian fast‐fashion company. The dataset is equipped with images of products, metadata, related sales, and associated Google Trends. We use VISUELLE to compare our approach against state‐of‐the‐art alternatives and several baselines, showing that our neural network‐based approach is the most accurate in terms of both percentage and absolute error. It is worth noting that the addition of exogenous knowledge boosts the forecasting accuracy by 1.5% in terms of Weighted Absolute Percentage Error (WAPE), revealing the importance of exploiting informative external information. The code and dataset are both available online (at https://github.com/HumaticsLAB/GTM-Transformer). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Similar to the advantages of product modularity to a firm’s overall performance, new product modularity could provide advantages to the new product development process and result in its success in the marketplace. Accordingly, this study investigates the effect of new product modularity on its financial and market-related performance (new product performance). To identify processes underlying this effect, NPD speed and task uncertainty have been considered as its mediator and moderator, respectively. In this vein, survey data from 190 Iranian manufacturing firms have been gathered and research hypotheses have been examined using structural equation modelling and bootstrapping approach. The results of this study reveal that new product modularity improves NPD speed and new product performance. Additionally, NPD speed is found to have a partial mediating role between new product modularity and performance. Finally, this study empirically shows that the positive effect of new product modularity on new product performance amplifies in tasks marked by heightened uncertainty. The findings of the current study highlight the determinant role of modular strategy and NPD speed in developing successful new products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractLimited research explores consumer motivations for millet-based food purchases despite their rising popularity in India. Existing studies prioritize the nutritional and sustainable aspects of millets, neglecting a customer-centric perspective. This study addresses this gap by examining drivers of purchase intentions for millet-based foods. Using a mixed-methods approach, we conducted open-ended essays with consumers followed by a survey (n = 385) analyzed using structural equation modeling. We applied the Theory of Consumption Values (TCV) to understand these motivations. This research contributes a theory-driven framework for understanding millet consumption and offers practical implications for marketers by informing targeted campaigns and product development strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent FDA approvals of Rebyota™ and Vowst™ represent landmark milestones within the burgeoning field of live microbiota-based products. Future microbiota-based treatment approaches also hold significant promise for treating patients with a myriad of diseases and disorders, yet substantial hurdles hinder their development and utilization. Foremost, existing regulatory frameworks governing live biotherapeutic product (LBP) manufacturing development have notable gaps, requiring comprehensive expansion and refinement. Along with regulatory challenges, hurdles remain in the optimization and validation of analytical methodologies essential for characterizing LBPs, including for microbial identification, potency, and bioburden. To address these challenges, Microbiome Therapeutics Innovation Group (MTIG) spearheaded collaborative efforts, engaging industry leaders and the FDA in discussions aimed at catalyzing improvements in LBP analytics and refining the current regulatory landscape. Extrapolating on feedback from these discussions, this review highlights challenges and identifies critical gaps. Specific recommendations for future regulatory guidance are proposed, as are recommendations for interactions that developers can take now with regulatory agencies to support the development of maturing guidance. Key analytical factors to consider in LBP development are reviewed, highlighting strengths and weaknesses of various methodologies. Collaboration among regulatory and government agencies, industry, and academia, facilitated by coalitions like MTIG, will be instrumental in ushering the microbiota-based therapeutics field into the next phase of approvals and advancements, ultimately benefiting patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of incorporating an agile approach into creating sustainable products has been widely discussed. This approach can enhance innovation integration, improve adaptability to changing development circumstances, and increase the efficiency and quality of the product development process. While many agile methods have originated in the software development context and have been formulated based on successful software projects, they often fail due to incorrect procedures and a lack of acceptance, preventing deep integration into the process. Additionally, decision-making for market evaluation is often hindered by unclear and subjective information. Therefore, this study introduces an extended TOPSIS (Technique for Order Performance by Similarity to Ideal Solution) method for sustainable product development. This method leverages the benefits of cloud model theory to address randomness and uncertainty (intrapersonal uncertainty) and the advantages of rough set theory to flexibly handle market demand uncertainty without requiring extra information. The study proposes an integrated weighting method that considers both subjective and objective weights to determine comprehensive criteria weights. It also presents a new framework, named Sustainable Agility of Product Development (SAPD), which aims to evaluate criteria for assessing sustainable product development. To validate the effectiveness of this proposed method, a case study is conducted on small and medium enterprises in China. The obtained results show that the company needs to conduct product structure research and development to realize new product functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Granulation is the critical process for the pharmaceutical development of poorly water-soluble drug products. Poorly formulated products have challenges in dissolution and bioequivalence studies. Rivaroxaban (RXB) is a poorly soluble drug and has 66% fasting bioavailability at a high strength of 20 mg. Establishing the bioequivalence between test and reference products for high strength requires comparative dissolution profiles and bioequivalence. Improper granulation products and the rest of the batches failed in virtual bioequivalence. The present study provided insight into the optimization of the wet granulation process for manufacturing RXB generic immediate-release tablets using PBPK modeling and simulations. Furthermore, PBPK models are not only useful for formulation optimization but also for process optimization during pharmaceutical product development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Creative confidence is a necessary and valuable skill to prepare students for marketing careers. Marketers need to be trained to offer creative solutions to enhance marketing offerings. To help address this need, the aim of this paper is to provide logistical instructions for a class module that enhances students’ creative confidence through design thinking, which can be implemented effectively in one class. Findings from 45 student pre- and post-module surveys on the efficacy of this teaching module indicate that the module increases students’ creative confidence. A detailed implementation plan is provided for educators to use in undergraduate Principles of Marketing, Consumer Behavior, New Product Development, Marketing Strategy, or other marketing courses where neither students nor instructors need prior design thinking knowledge. This module can be adapted to synchronous and asynchronous modalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a global burden that requires attention. For the detection and diagnosis of CVDs, the 12-lead ECG is a key tool. With technological advancements, ECG devices are becoming smaller and available for home use. Most of these devices contain a limited number of leads and are aimed to detect atrial fibrillation (AF). To investigate whether a four-electrode arrangement could provide enough information to diagnose other CVDs, further research is necessary. At the University Medical Center Utrecht in a multidisciplinary team, we developed the miniECG, a four-electrode ECG handheld system for scientific research in clinical environments (TRL6). This paper describes the process followed during the development of the miniECG. From assembling a multidisciplinary team, which includes engineers, cardiologists, and clinical physicians to the contribution of team members in the design input, design, and testing for safety and functionality of the device. Finally, we detail how the development process was composed by iterative design steps based on user input and intended use evolution. The miniECG is a device compliant for scientific research with patients within Dutch Medical Centers. We believe that hospital-based development led to a streamlined process, which could be applied for the design and development of other technologies used for scientific research in clinical environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurposeDesign/methodology/approachFindingsOriginality/valueBy collaborating with public research institutions, the paper seeks to understand how firms can leverage strategic intent and co-created value to gain strategic opportunities in new product development.This study employed Eisenhardt’s case approach (1998) to develop a theory. Data was gathered through a semi-structured questionnaire administered to 40 personnel from public research institutions. The key informant, who possessed extensive experience in new product development and a deep understanding of partner firms’ motivations to collaborate, was also consulted. This primary data was supplemented with secondary data, including published information and field notes, to ensure a comprehensive research approach.The results offer four propositions that can be explored further. First, the higher the strategic intent among PRI stakeholders, the higher the likelihood of strategic opportunities leading to new products. Second, the higher the co-created value in the NPD process, the higher the likelihood of strategic opportunities. Third, the higher the strategic intent and co-created value, the higher the strategic opportunities. Fourth, the higher the strategic intent and co-created value, the higher the likelihood of strategic opportunities. Such strategic opportunities may not have immediate desired commercial outcomes, but their cumulative knowledge could provide additional strategic opportunities for future NPD.This research contributes to the business marketing literature by deepening our understanding of the potential strategic opportunities that can arise from firms Collaborating with public research institutions. It highlights the benefits of these institutions being more knowledge (as compared to profit) focused and how these collaborations can, directly and indirectly, lead to new product developments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a practice among OECD countries of establishing restrictions for state-owned enterprises to develop new products in addition to their main production. Scarce attention is paid to how such an approach affects public enterprises' performance in favour of the public good; thus, it must be clarified. This research aims to propose competition policy improvements based on the evaluated impact of new product restrictions on competition neutrality. The research methodology includes interviews with Latvian public sector stakeholders concerning the advantages of optimal use of the company's resources and risks' diversification. Private sector disadvantages if state-owned enterprises offer their products in private-dominated markets are considered. It was observed that national policy is contradictory: there is an emphasis on efficiency goals, but the expansion initiatives by state-owned enterprises in the market are accepted reluctantly. Taking advantage of state-owned enterprises to boost R&D innovations is important to fostering Latvian regional development policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of exoskeletons by many companies has often resulted in potential users not wanting to wear them. Evaluations of the exoskeleton reveal benefits of use, including ergonomic advantages and a reduction of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. How can this contradiction be explained? By searching the available literature, we can identify the methods used to develop these devices and the methods employed to evaluate their acceptance and benefit. By looking at the product from different viewpoints and involving different disciplines, we will get to the root of this discrepancy. Our findings indicate that the product definition, development focus, and evaluation methods do not sufficiently and adequately address the primary goal of exoskeletons. The development of such devices should be prioritized not only for the delivery of support but also for the motivation of the user. Finally, we put forward the proposal to discuss the establishment of a novel development method for the prospective elaboration of exoskeletons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: New product development (NPD) is necessary for business sustenance and customer satisfaction. Six Sigma and Design for Lean Six Sigma (DLSS) efficiently employ the repetitive stages for NPD, leading to quality performance and profitability. This study aims to map the quality performance through NPD attributes through the Lean methodology. Design/methodology/approach: The data on NPD were collected from 267 respondents from manufacturing companies to map the relationship between Six Sigma and DLSS for NPD. Confirmatory factor analysis was employed to confirm model fit, while structural equation modeling was employed to analyze the empirical data for framework testing. The study included nine variables and fourteen hypotheses identified from the literature. Findings: The statistical results of this study show that NPD attributes such as innovation, marketing, organization, customer, product and technology positively influence the Lean Six Sigma structured improvement process (LSSSIP) and DLSS. Moreover, integrating these attributes in Lean planning enhance quality performance. This empirical investigation's findings indicate that ten of the 14 hypotheses were supported, giving the study a strong foundation. Research limitations/implications: The data collection was limited to northern India; therefore, the results may not be generalizable to other areas of the world. Practical implications: NPD involves handling technical issues and factors such as cost, operational bottlenecks, economic changes, competitors' strategy and company policy. This study helps understand the various NPD parameters and their relationship to Lean, which enables an effective NPD implementation strategy. Originality/value: The current philosophy of NPD calls for a concurrent engineering approach; therefore, the entire organization must be part of this process. This study uses the holistic framework by optimizing NPD with Lean Six Sigma (LSS) principles. The study is unique in that, to date, research does not integrate NPD attributes with the objectives of LSS to develop an efficient NPD implementation strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A growing interest in healthy diets has increased demand for fish and seafood, with aquaculture playing a crucial role in meeting this need. Developing new aquaculture products can enhance their commercial value and address consumer demand, but it is unclear which products will be well-received. This study aimed to generate ideas for new products derived from sea bream and prawns, and to gather consumer opinions on these ideas, segmented by gender and age. Two methodologies were used: focus groups and Check-All-That-Apply (CATA). In the focus groups, with two sessions per species and 10 participants each, ideas for aquaculture products were generated and categorized as fresh, dehydrated, fermented, marinated, and canned. The CATA technique, applied to 387 individuals, assessed the acceptability of fresh species, yielding average scores of 6.6 for sea bream and 6.8 for prawns. Sea bream was associated with products like fillets and long-shelf-life loins, while prawns were linked to snacks and toppings. In conclusion, the use of tools like focus groups has shown promising results for developing new aquaculture products. CATA analysis indicated that sea bream should be minimally processed with a long shelf life, and prawns should be processed into dehydrated products. Women preferred traditional products, while men favoured innovative options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global demand for food is expected to nearly double by 2050. Alternative proteins (AP) have been proposed as a sustainable solution to provide food security as natural resources become more depleted. However, the growth and consumer intake of AP remains limited. This review aims to better understand the challenges and environmental impacts of four main AP categories: plant-based, insect-based, microbe-derived, and cultured meat and seafood. The environmental benefits of plant-based and insect-based proteins have been documented but the impacts of microbe-derived proteins and cultured meat have not been fully assessed. The development of alternative products with nutritional and sensory profiles similar to their conventional counterparts remains highly challenging. Furthermore, incomplete safety assessments and a lack of clear regulatory guidelines confuse the food industry and hamper progress. Much still needs to be done to fully support AP utilization within the context of supporting the drive to make the global food system sustainable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medical start-ups (MedTech) significantly contribute to the development and commercialization of innovative healthcare solutions, driving advancements in technology, enhancing treatment effectiveness, and supporting public health. This study explores the main themes and concepts related to MedTech start-ups, examines the research methods used, and identifies major gaps in the literature. A scoping literature review was performed by searching the Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases for publications from 2012 to 2023, focusing on MedTech start-ups in titles, abstracts, and keywords. References were analyzed using the Bibliometrix package in R, and a coupling network analysis was conducted, visualizing results on a Coupling Map to identify key research themes and gaps. The research identified 480 unique articles on MedTech start-ups. After removing duplicates and following a PRISMA-based assessment, 79 articles were included in the review. The studies predominantly focused on organizations, including start-ups and Venture Capital funds (46%). Most articles (60%) used qualitative methods, 25% employed mixed methods, and 15% used quantitative methods. Geographically, 63% of articles focused on a single country, primarily the USA (35%), followed by Iran, Sweden, Switzerland, China, and Japan (2–4% each). Coupling analysis identified five topic clusters: crowdfunding for medical research, innovation in medical technology, new product development, digital start-ups, and the venture capital industry. This review highlights the significant role of MedTech start-ups in advancing healthcare innovations despite challenges like regulatory hurdles and high capital requirements. The literature emphasizes the importance of collaboration among universities, industry, and government for successful commercialization. The geographic concentration in the USA indicates a need for more inclusive research. Crowdfunding and venture capital emerge as crucial funding sources, suggesting strategies to mitigate risks and enhance innovation success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We demonstrate that organic–inorganic interfacial charge-transfer transitions enable favourable photovoltaic conversion with CO2-fixation products such as aromatic carboxylic acids, verifying a new possibility of CO2-fixation products in the development of optoelectronic conversion materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The field of robotics has long been inspired by notable adaptations and functionalities found in nature, leading to the development of biomimetic designs that mimic the abilities of living organisms. The design of underground excavation robots and various applications has been approached with a biomimetic perspective, offering numerous alternatives for innovation and new product development. These robots draw inspiration from a wide range of animals, including mammals, insects, and crustaceans, to develop effective excavation techniques and adaptability to complex underground environments. In this study, solutions for excavation tasks are presented, drawing inspiration from the armadillo. The robot mimics the unique anatomical structure of the armadillo and its digging function to perform effective and efficient excavation. The armadillo's ability to move rapidly and effectively underground serves as a primary inspiration for the robot's design. This study provides a detailed look into the design principles and methodologies used in the development of biomimetic underground excavation robots, demonstrating their potential utility in underground exploration, mining, and various other subterranean activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, transmission eigenvalues of a Schrödinger equation have been studied by constructing a new inner product and using Weyl theory. Necessary conditions for these eigenvalues to be negative, real, and finite have been examined. This method has provided a new framework related to transmission eigenvalue problems and the investigation of their properties. The conclusions have been verified for the special case of the problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To increase agricultural production and feed the growing human population, the control of phytopathogens, known to affect the quality and yield of fruit and vegetable production, is of utmost importance. Chemical pesticides are by far the most used defensives to control plant diseases, which, despite their effectiveness, are already associated with several health issues in humans, besides their toxic and cumulative effects on the environment and food chain. In this context, natural products appear as viable alternatives to reduce the volume of pesticides used in the field and yet, have a recognized potential to be used in disease management programs. This systematic review highlights the use of essential oils (EOs) as control agents against microbial phytopathogens. Defined as oily, aromatic, and hydrophobic liquids obtained from any part of the plants, EOs are known for their diverse activities, such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and others. Furthermore, EOs are classified as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) when used as food additives due to their moderate effects on mammals and low persistence in the environment. These characteristics point to EOs as viable alternatives in the research and development of new products and approaches for the control of diseases caused by phytopathogens. The present systematic review reports on scientific novel papers published between January 2019 - June 2023 (approximately five years) that relate the use of EOs against phytopathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few studies have focused on how source credibility and fairness influence parasocial relationships and product interest, and how product interest impacts consumers' purchase intentions towards new products. But few have examined how these factors can influence purchase intention and eWOM, so this study aims to fill the gap, focusing on Indonesian beauty influencers on Instagram. With 501 respondents, this study used SPSS 26 (pre-test) and SmartPLS for data analysis. The results show that: the variables of attractiveness, similarity, and trustworthiness have a significant and positive effect on parasocial relationships; similarity has a significant and positive effect on product interest. Interpersonal fairness and informational fairness have a positive and significant effect on parasocial relationships; and distributive fairness has a positive and significant effect on product interest. Parasocial relationship has a significant and positive effect on product interest, purchase intention, and eWOM. Product interest has a significant and positive effect on purchase intention and eWOM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) rolled-out the Dangit Processing Livelihood FishCORALProject for the fishers’ organization in Prieto Diaz, Sorsogon in mid 2019 funded by UN-IFAD. Designed to help reduce poverty through increased household income, women participation and project sustainability. This study looked into the relevance, effectiveness and efficiency of implementation and readiness in attaining project objectives. The study is mixed descriptive method and used semi-structured questionnaire, key informants interview, FGD and secondary data analysis. The project was found relevant but poor in coordination and involvement of other stakeholders. Effective but failed to contribute to poverty reduction due to late implementation, no comprehensive project plans and technical support. Inefficient as it failed to translate resources it to incomes and sustained operations. The community organizationsare not ready and capable (lack technical and business management skills). The local resources (danggit, people and community organization) guarantee sustainability if managed appropriately. Women empowerment is hardly achieved. Recommendations;1) Develop project sustainability plan (technical and business facets of theproject), capacitate the organization along leadership and business management. 2) Bioecological data be produced on danggit stock to fine tune harvesting and regenerative capacity to ensure sustainability of supply. 3) Technical support provision coming from BFAR, LGU, academe, DTI, DOST, NLRC, NGOs in the form of product development, value adding, branding & packaging, business management, access to funds, assigning a full-time community facilitator as priority. Responsibilities and commitments of BFAR, LGU and the beneficiary be concretized through a memorandum of cooperation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]