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The transport of molecules through biological and synthetic nanopores is governed by multiple stochastic processes that lead to noisy, fluctuating currents. Disentangling the characteristics of different noise-generating mechanisms is central to better understanding molecular transport at a fundamental level but is extremely challenging in molecular systems due to their complexity and relative experimental inaccessibility. Here, we construct a colloidal model microfluidic system for the experimental measurement of particle currents, where the governing physical properties are directly controllable and particle dynamics directly observable, unlike in the molecular case. Currents of hard spheres fluctuate due to the random arrival times of particles into the channel and the distribution of particle speeds within the channel, which results in characteristic scalings in the power spectral density. We rationalize these scalings by quantitatively comparing to a model for shot noise with a finite transit time, extended to include the distribution of particle speeds. Particle velocity distributions sensitively reflect the confining geometry, and we interpret and model these in terms of the underlying fluid flow profiles. Finally, we explore the extent to which details of these distributions govern the form of the resulting power spectral density, thereby establishing concrete links between the power spectral density and underlying mechanisms for this experimental system. This paves the way for establishing a more systematic understanding of the links between characteristics of transport fluctuations and underlying molecular mechanisms in driven systems such as nanopores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Empowering customers through participation is known to enhance brand promotion. A popular strategy involves asking customers to vote on marketing communication tactics, which activates empowerment effects through increased psychological ownership. Prior research has found that while winning voters experience empowerment effects, losing voters report lower psychological ownership, product evaluations, and demand. In this research, through four studies we develop and test a parsimonious common customer identity framework to understand and reduce the effects of losing. This research advances marketing communication theory by highlighting the distinctive processes underlying the empowerment versus losing effect and demonstrating the value of engaging losing voters by enhancing intergroup interdependence through the activation of cooperative mindsets. Specifically, the study identifies that framing a voting event as a collaborative (versus competitive) effort is effective in mitigating the losing effect, particularly among those with high self–brand connection. Therefore, this research offers managerial implications on managing empowerment strategies, which is potentially generalizable to other marketing communication channels involving customer participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New brand launches are notoriously risky, with high failure rates. Yet, most research focuses on the out-of-store factors inherent to their success/failure, overlooking strategies that can be employed in-store. The present research addresses this oversight by examining the influence of two in-store factors, distraction and shelf position, and their impact on a new brand's visibility on the shelf. We draw on a unique data set featuring a real-life new brand entrant into the Australian market. Using an experimental design in a shopper laboratory, and mobile eye-tracking, we find that the new brand stands a greater chance of being noticed and visually attended to on the shelf when shoppers are distracted. This is attributed to shoppers dwelling longer in front of the fixture, being more open to new-to-the-consumer brands, and by negatively affecting the top-down processing of existing brands on the shelf. We also find that optimising shelf position, which is a common in-store marketing tactic for existing brands, may not produce the same return on investment for a new brand. The findings offer valuable theoretical and practical implications for improving the success rates of new brand launches, including selection of distribution channels, allocation of marketing resources, and the interplay between in-store and out-of-sore factors driving shopper behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study reveals the effects of symmetry on how the distribution and flow of energy play out on the decomposition of small halocarbons. Unimolecular decay of the freons CHFCl2 and CF2Cl2 when ionized has been investigated. Mass spectrometric results that encompass isotope effects (peak heights) and energy distribution in the exit channel (peak shapes) are interpreted by computational methods. Non-statistical processes of electronic predissociation and isolated state decay are shown to be directly associated with molecular symmetry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reservoir heterogeneity, water-oil mobility ratio, cementation degree, and strong injection and production significantly influence long-term waterflooding and polymer flooding processes in oil reservoir development, leading to the formation of low-resistance dominant seepage channels in the lower part of thick oil layers without internal laminations. Understanding the spatial distribution and evolution of dominant seepage channels in oil reservoirs during waterflooding and polymer flooding is crucial for improving reservoir development and recovery rates. It uses a streamlined numerical simulation method to quantitatively show the spatial and temporal distribution of dominant seepage channels in the oil reservoir. A model and chart were created to demonstrate the relationship between permeability and throat radius, capturing changes in reservoir permeabilities over time. The study developed a comprehensive mathematical model to identify dominant seepage channels, considering parameters such as inter-well flow ratio, injection efficiency, permeability change value, and water saturation. Research findings indicate a 14.8 % increase in reservoir permeability after polymer flooding, with slight changes in porosity and a 20.3 % decrease in clay content. The established mathematical model and identification criteria were used to comprehensively quantitatively evaluate flow channels, describing the distribution characteristics and evolution process of dominant seepage channels in the experimental area over four periods: pre-polymer flooding, low water-saturation period during polymer flooding, post-polymer injection, and subsequent 10 years of water flooding. Both polymer flooding and subsequent water flooding have significantly altered the distribution pattern of predominant fluid pathways: 254 well layers now demonstrate robust predominant fluid pathways (19 %); another 272 well layers feature moderately predominant fluid pathways (22 %); while an additional 440 well layers display weaker predominant fluid pathways (approximately 35 %). There has been a noticeable increase in both weak and moderate predominant fluid pathways, which are now more widespread in the area. However, localized occurrences of strong predominant fluid pathways persist with no significant change in their distribution characteristics. Analysis at four different time points shows a clear trend of increasing intensity as we move from polymer to subsequent water flooding in this decade. Additionally, examination along an axis from upper left to lower right reveals a linear progression that indicates clear connections among different categories of dominant seepage channel. The verification results show a strong correlation between the calculated dominant seepage channel distribution and actual water-injection profile test results, indicating that the method effectively identifies dominant seepage channels in oil reservoirs after polymer flooding and has the potential to enhance oil recovery further. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on agrifood supply chains has grown in recent years; however, little attention has been given to the effect of the choice of distribution channel on the sustainable and resilient performance of the network. This research proposes a system dynamics model to evaluate different distribution channels for a fresh food supply chain in a developing country. Among the main results is that the use of food hubs in a channel distribution produces long-term environmental, social and resilience benefits for the entire network, while short supply chains are the most economically viable alternative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to evaluate the effect of commitment misperception on channel conflict. It highlights the importance of trust and transaction-specific investments for business marketing strategies. Design/methodology/approach: This paper develops a concept framework to understand how the direction (overestimated vs underestimated) and extent of commitment misperception influence channel conflict. The model is tested using dyadic data from 212 distributors and manufacturers across several industries in China. Findings: The results show that the direction of commitment misperception affects trust, transaction-specific investments and channel conflict. Overestimated commitment induces positive illusion and enhances trust and transaction-specific investments and reduces channel conflict, whereas underestimated commitment induces negative illusion and reduces trust and transaction-specific investments and enhances channel conflict. Trust and transaction-specific investments mediate the impact of the direction of commitment misperception on channel conflict. The extent of commitment misperception plays the moderating influence on the direction of commitment misperception. Originality/value: This study reveals the mechanisms and boundary conditions by exploring the mediating influence of trust and transaction-specific investments and the moderating effects of the extent of commitment misperception. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This empirical study aims to examine luxury fashion retailers' localised multiple channel distribution strategies in China. Design/methodology/approach: Through case studies of 15 participating retailers, qualitative data were collected from 33 semi-structured interviews. Findings: Strong impacts of internationalisation strategies, distribution strategies and channel length towards multiple channel retailing are revealed. Multi-channel retailing is widely employed by firms who have entered China and further developed their businesses through local partnerships and adopted a selective distribution strategy via relatively longer channels. Omni-channel retailing is only suitable for the few retailers using an exclusive distribution strategy through direct marketing and wholly owned customer relationship management. As a dynamic transformation from multi- to omni-channel retailing, cross-channel retailing is adopted by those who are withdrawing from local partnerships and shifting to wholly owned expansions and operations in host markets. Research limitations/implications: The results are potentially challenged by relatively small sample size. Practical implications: Practitioners are suggested to adapt multiple channel retailing to their international expansion strategies, distribution strategies and channel length in the host markets. Originality/value: This paper contributes to the literature in both multiple channel retailing and international retailing by offering insights into the motives, development patterns and suitability of multiple channel retailing in the international retail marketing context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sewage pipes are important conduits for microplastics into the natural environment, but previous studies have paid little attention to the hydraulic characteristics of the confluence of pipe and channel, and the distribution of microplastics at the confluence. This study compared the effects of varying flow rates and particle sizes (Including 500 μm, 700 μm, and 900 μm) on microplastic migration and distribution at the confluence of pipe and channel using experimental measurements. The results obtained using flotation method indicate that flow proportions and particle sizes influence the capacity of flow to transport microplastics. Larger microplastic accumulation occurs in scour holes and separation zones characterized by lower flow velocities, while deposition decreases in acceleration zones characterized by higher flow velocities. Increasing the flow rate of the branch pipe influences the volume of each zone at the pipe-channel confluence. The elongated shape of the scour hole and the acceleration zone facilitate the downstream migration of microplastics. Moreover, the hydrophilic nature of microplastics increases after aging, and it is more likely to migrate to downstream with the water flow, making the downstream microplastics account for more proportion. These results provide valuable insights into the migration and distribution of microplastics at the confluence of pipe and channel, with practical implications for microplastic treatment strategies at these confluences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using B2B marketing analytics, algorithms, and models can identify business blind spots, thus avoiding possible risks. It helps to better understand and predict trends and results, and rationalise decisions. The fourth industrial revolution has brought marketing 4.0, affecting marketing analytics methods. This study provides a holistic framework to investigate these effects on Marketing 4.0 analytics. To achieve this goal, a hybrid systematic literature review (SLR) and thematic analysis (TA) is conducted on the applications and models of B2B marketing analytics in Industry 4.0 from the most reliable scientific databases. Understanding these models and their applications changes the attitude toward communication between marketing channels, identifies potential marketing analytics applications for businesses, and facilitates areas for further research. Initially, 941 sources were screened, and ultimately 43 were examined. As a result, 25 codes were applied, and six themes were extracted, including Digital Transformation, Big Data, Marketing Analytics, Marketing, Analytics, and Customer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although phygital is overly used across businesses, the construct lacks an academic conceptualization. The existing studies define the concept in regards to the marketing channel approach, where phygital is most of the time utilized to refer to multichannel, crosschannel, or omnichannel strategies. This view limits its application and provides only a narrow view of the enormous potential of phygital. Instead, phygital should be viewed as a comprehensive framework for better managing customer experiences. Such a framework guarantees a continuum in value delivery by connecting offline and online offerings. Instead of confining phygital to the channel logic, which has been dominant so far in marketing and retail, we propose the phygital customer experience (PH-CX) to be a new holistic framework that examines the dynamics created by customers' shifting from physical to digital settings or vice versa. The PH-CX framework identifies the fundamental driving forces, connectors, and pillars of the phygital customer experience strategy to help managers design compelling customer experiences. This is done by fluidifying the journeys of customers from online to offline and inversely, along with capturing consumers' values and responding to their tangible needs (e.g., their needs for quality) and their intangible needs (e.g., their emotional needs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study a common agency problem in which two downstream firms, who are local monopolists and receive private demand signals, offer secret menus of two-part tariff contracts to their common supplier. While direct communication is not possible, they may still exchange their information through signal-contingent menus of vertical contracts. We show that a perfect Bayesian equilibrium exists in which information is transmitted, and downstream firms obtain nearly the first-best industry surplus. The use of both fixed charges and slotting fees is necessary for such a result. Our analysis provides a novel explanation for the use of slotting fees in vertical contracting based on its value as an information transmission device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gravity-driven depositional processes play a pivotal role in shaping the geomorphology of subaqueous deltas worldwide, particularly by eroding the seafloor, leading to the formation of rugged submarine channels (SCs) and triggering various subaqueous geohazards. A comprehensive understanding of SCs is crucial for elucidating these depositional mechanisms and mitigating the risks associated with submarine geohazards. Although SCs in the Huanghe delta front have been previously identified, often described as seafloor gullies or subsurface "disturbed strata," most studies have primarily concentrated on their engineering geological properties. However, there has been limited research on the scale, morphology, and development of these SCs, especially those that are buried within the stratigraphy. Methods: This study integrates high-resolution sub-bottom data, sediment core analyses, and historical bathymetric data to investigate the morphology, distribution, and formation mechanisms of SCs in the Huanghe subaqueous delta. Results: The SCs, both buried and exposed, are widespread along the middle and upper delta front, predominantly located at or near the landward flank of sediment gravity flow (SGF) -related accumulations. The buried SCs are characterized by cut-and-fill structures with transparent to semi-transparent fills, indicating rapid infilling processes as SGF energy dissipates. These buried channels were preserved within different sets of delta front deposits formed during 1855-1964 CE, 1964-1976 CE, and 1976-2007 CE, with the latter two periods separated by a significant lobe-switching event in 1976 CE. This event, combined with prevailing southeastward sediment transport and erosional regimes, appears to have controlled the preservation of SCs along the delta front: SCs in the Diaokou Lobe's delta front (pre-1976) suffered significant erosion, leaving only one set of channel (erosional remnants) preserved, while the SCs in the Qingshuigou Lobe's delta front (post-1976) are characterized by well-preserved, multi-phase channels at different horizons. The cross-section morphology of the SCs reveal three primary types: symmetrical, asymmetrical, and composite, corresponding respectively to (1) idealized SGF incision, (2) uneven incision intensity on either side of the SCs, and (3) the merging of two or more symmetrical/asymmetrical SCs. Conclusions: We describe in detail the morphology, distribution and development of SCs in the modern Huanghe subaqueous delta. These findings provide insights into the formation and distribution of SCs in other shallow marine settings, particularly in delta front areas, and potentially offer information for disaster prevention and engineering development in such regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The integration of e-commerce platforms and artificial intelligence (AI) into the marketing channel ecosystem is challenging the explanatory capacity of traditional channel power theories, indicating a significant yet unaddressed research gap concerning the impact of these digital entities and AI on channel power exercise dynamics. This study adopts a contingency perspective to critically revisit how e-commerce platforms exercise channel power and the ensuing effects on channel conflicts. The purpose of this study is to extend the boundaries of traditional channel power theories, enhancing their relevance in today's digital marketplace. Design/methodology/approach: Building on channel power theories, the authors developed a framework tested with survey data collected from 262 sellers. This framework incorporates three key contingent variables: inter-platform competition, AI capabilities and platform value co-creation. Regression analysis was used to perform the analyses. Findings: This study finds that intense inter-platform competition mitigates the (positive) negative relationship between platform channel power and the exercise of (non-) coercive power. Moreover, a platform's AI capabilities and value co-creation activities diminish the potential for channel conflicts induced by the exercise of coercive power. AI capabilities can also strengthen the negative relationship between the exercise of non-coercive power and channel conflicts. Originality/value: This study contributes to the advancement of traditional channel power theories by integrating contemporary digital elements like AI and platform dynamics. This study provides theoretical and practical insights on navigating channel power in modern marketing environments, offering strategic guidelines for optimizing channel relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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.)

Organizations yearn to develop effective distribution of goods and services. This is also true for agricultural produce such as tea. A significant proportion of the local tea is distributed by Kenya Tea Packers Limited (KETEPA), which is a subsidiary of the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA). KETEPA is expected to develop mechanisms to guarantee increased sales performance of tea products. Exclusive distribution is expected to improve the sales performance of tea products. Therefore, the study sought to examine the role of an entire distribution strategy on sales performance. The study adopted a correlation research design and collected quantitative data using a structured questionnaire. Data was collected from 221 sales staff dealing with tea product distribution. The theory of Channel Control was used to explain the relationship between study constructs. Findings revealed that exclusive distribution significantly influences the performance of tea products. It is against this backdrop, that managers are expected to develop strategies, policies and procedures for exclusive distribution to foster the sale performance of tea products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selling fresh food products can be challenging due to their perishability, which often results in significant losses. To address this issue and maximize profits, we have developed a contract that takes into account the costs of investing in preservation technology over a finite planning horizon. The arrangements incentivize the supplier and the retailer to establish coordination and determine not only the optimal price and schedule for replenishment but also the optimal investment required in preservation technology. We investigate the effectiveness of vendor managed inventory (VMI) and consignment with revenue-sharing models through an analysis of pricing and inventory decisions, followed by evaluating the channel performance and the distribution of profits. Contract parameters are defined under the equilibrium state to achieve advantageous relationships among supply chain partners by improving profits for both channel members. The finding shows that a VMI and consignment mechanism with a side payment arrangement could help coordinate channels in a non-cooperative setting. Still, performing the contract is easier in a cooperative setting. Both members could achieve optimal decisions for the wide-channel system without any additional payments, leading to increased profitability for all supply chain members. In an alternative approach, the retailer has the option to offer a subsidy alongside the revenue-sharing-only trading terms within a VMI and consignment by incorporating a generalized revenue-sharing scheme to facilitate coordination with the supplier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study two sources of heteroscedasticity in high-frequency financial data and estimate their contribution to overall volatility by means of a Markov switching (MS) structural VAR model. We achieve identification for all coefficients by assuming that the structural errors follow a GARCH-DCC process. Using transaction data of the EUR/USD interdealer market in 2016, we first detect three regimesof volatility. Then we show that both sources of volatility matter for the transmission of shocks, and that information is channeled to the market mostly through demand shocks. This suggests that, on the EUR/USD market, some liquidity takers (LTs) are better informed than both liquidity providers and those LTs who follow a feedback strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study discusses infiltration in six irrigation channel types with root water uptake in four types of roots. The mathematical model for the infiltration problem is the Richards equation. This equation is then transformed into a modified Helmholtz equation using the Kirchhoff transformation, dimensionless variables. Subsequently, a numerical solution of the modified Helmholtz equation is obtained using the Dual Reciprocity Boundary Element Method (DRBEM) with a predictor–corrector scheme to result in the numerical values of suction potential, water content, and root water uptake function. In addition, the amount of water absorbed by each root and the water distribution pattern in the channel can be obtained and compared. The results indicate that the minimum water content values occur in both impermeable rectangular and trapezoidal channels, and the highest water uptake values are also observed in the impermeable channels. This is consistent with the physical conditions; as in impermeable channels, water loss downward is limited, and water tends to flow toward the plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Academic Library & Information Science is the property of Anhui University 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 laser stripe method (LSM) for measuring solids distribution in sediment-laden flow has been extended to accommodate the presence of multiple sediment fractions which can differ in particle size and shape. A measurement setup with two lasers emitting green and red laser sheets was utilized to measure the vertical distribution of the near-wall concentration of a bimodal sediment mixture composed of green and red particles. The extended method was calibrated under controlled conditions in a calibration cell and was validated for measuring distributions in sediment-laden flow in a laboratory tilting flume. The results from the flume demonstrate that the extended LSM can successfully produce vertical profiles of the total concentration of all particles and the relative concentration of the two fractions. The accuracy of total concentration measurements using the extended LSM is consistent with that of the original LSM, both exhibiting an error of 0.015. The extended LSM evaluates the relative proportion of individual fractions with an error of 0.05. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hollow cathodes for plasma switch applications are investigated via 2D3V particle-in-cell simulations of the channel and plume region. The kinetic nature of the plasma within the channel is dependent on the thermalization rate of electrons, emitted from the insert. When Coulomb collisions occur at a much greater rate than ionization or excitation collisions, the electron energy distribution function rapidly relaxes to a Maxwellian and the plasma within the channel can be described accurately via a fluid model. In contrast, if inelastic processes are much faster than Coulomb collisions, then the electron energy distribution function in the channel exhibits a notable high-energy tail, and a kinetic treatment is required. This criterion is applied to hollow cathodes from the literature, revealing that a fluid approach is suitable for most electric propulsion applications, whereas a kinetic treatment can be more critical to accurate modeling of plasma switches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of 24/7 cable news channels within the US revolutionized news consumption, offering viewers accessibility beyond fixed broadcast schedules. While the phenomenon began with CNN, competitors quickly emerged, targeting different political ideologies and mirroring the heightened polarization that has altered American society. Cable news channels must market themselves effectively to their audiences through distinctive product differentiation strategies. Understanding these approaches provides insights into information dissemination, political communication, and audience engagement dynamics. This paper aims to conduct a formal media analysis of current self-promotional advertisements across the big three cable news networks within the US to derive insights into contemporary differentiation strategies crucial for monitoring the industry's technological transition. As the rest of the world has begun to wrestle with increased polarization, this analysis will be relevant to anticipating how non-US news sources use ideology and values to position themselves within highly competitive markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the 1990s zine distros—small-scale, DIY distributors—emerged to become a vital part of zine communities by addressing the lack of established distribution channels, championing the medium, and fostering community. Before distros moved online in the 2000s, some produced paper catalogs to market and sell the zines they carried. These publications are complex documents that offer important information about zine distribution and culture unavailable elsewhere. This article considers the function of zine distros and what their catalogs can tell us. The first section provides an overview of 1990s zine distribution and examines how and why distros emerged when they did, arguing that distros offered something unique and important among distribution methods: distribution overseen by those embedded in zine communities that afforded creators the opportunity to reach a wider but controlled audience within a framework that valued support, participation, and community building. Yet a close examination of distros also reveals some of the problems inherent in these volunteer-run projects. The latter portion of this article analyzes catalogs produced by several distros. Catalogs, although short lived, document an important window of time: the emergence of distros, their optimism and efforts, and the role they played in zine distribution and communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stock market is a complex system characterized by collective activity, where interdependencies between stocks have a significant influence on stock price trends. It is widely believed that modeling these dependencies can improve the accuracy of stock trend prediction and enable investors to earn more stable profits. However, these dependencies are not directly observable and need to be analyzed from stock data. In this paper, we propose a model based on Long short-term memory (LSTM) and graph convolutional network to capture these dependencies for stock trend prediction. Specifically, an LSTM is employed to extract the stock features, with all hidden state outputs utilized to construct the graph nodes. Subsequently, Pearson correlation coefficient is used to organize the stock features into a graph structure. Finally, a graph convolutional network is applied to extract the relevant features for accurate stock trend prediction. Experiments based on China A50 stocks demonstrate that our proposed model outperforms baseline methods in terms of prediction performance and trading backtest returns. In trading backtest, we have identified a set of effective trading strategies as part of the trading plan. Based on China A50 stocks, our proposed model shows promising results in generating desirable returns during both upward and downward channels of the stock market. The proposed model has proven beneficial for investors to seeking optimal timing and pricing when dealing with shares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the effect of multichannel marketing communication in retail pharmacies to establish customer satisfaction in a world experiencing the digitalization of health sectors. The objective of the study is to understand customer acquisition and retention practices, the role of online and offline integrated communication, and the extent of customer preference for various marketing communication channels. As part of the study, the quantitative analysis of the publications included in the review was made using articles and reports published from 2014 to 2024. The review was conducted on the aspects of marketing using multiple channels in retail pharmacy and the healthcare-associated fields. The studies identified that comprehensive communication channel enhancement policies positively affect the generation of revenues, reduction in costs, and information delivery schedules in pharmaceuticals. Depending on the channel, consumers' needs and wants differ, and there is success in personalizing and presenting reasonably logical thoughts to people. Synchronicity of online and offline communication effectively increases the customers' power, trust, and satisfaction. E-marketing has always been significant in enhancing customers' touch points, which is why digital transformation is vital. This study further supports the fact that multichannel marketing is mandatory for the success of a retail pharmacy in the prevalent, highly competitive environment. The implementation also presupposes knowledge of consumer differences, the synergy of online and offline contacts, the emphasis on personalization, and fast adaptation to the changing technological environment, but often within the framework of severe legislation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to investigate associations between firm resources and reliance on entrepreneurial marketing (EM) channels among agrofood ventures. It accounts for agropreneur gender and racial/ethnic status in the context of marketing channel portfolio composition. The authors examine the established assumption that resource limitations drive EM and whether socially disadvantaged status of agropreneurs is associated with marketing strategy beyond standard resourcing measures. Design/methodology/approach: Using 2015 Local Foods Marketing Practices Survey data, the authors apply linear regression to investigate differences in the use of EM channels, accounting for resources, social status and other factors. Findings: Limited-resource ventures rely more on consumer-oriented channels that require EM practices. Socially disadvantaged entrepreneurs favor these channels, even when accounting for resources. Notably, ventures headed by men of color rely more on the most customer-centric local foods marketing channel. Research limitations/implications: Future research should investigate how social and human capital influences the use of EM. Practical implications: Entrepreneurial support policy and practice for agropreneurs should be cautious about the "double-burden" folk theorem of intersectional disadvantage and review how to best direct resources on EM to groups most likely to benefit. Originality/value: This paper uses a unique, restricted, nation-wide, federal data set to examine relationships between resource endowments, social status and the composition of agrofood enterprises' marketing channel portfolios. To the best of the authors' knowledge, it is the first to include racial- and ethnic-minority status of agropreneurs and to account for intersectionality with gender. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many firms have recently implemented the buy-online-and-pick-up-in-store (BOPS) strategy on store operations. This paper examines the impact of power structures on the decision of pricing and service level in an omnichannel supply chain with BOPS option. We investigate a two-stage omnichannel supply chain that consists of an online manufacturer and an offline retailer. The manufacturer produces products and adopts an online channel while the retailer sells products on both the traditional and the BOPS channels. Based on game theory analysis, the optimal retail prices in different distribution channels and the retailer's optimal service quality in an omnichannel supply chain are derived under different power structures. Our results show that the more powerful retailer enjoys a higher profit while the dominant manufacturer may not benefit from its first-move advantage. No dominance among omnichannel supply chain members lead to the highest service level. Our analysis generates managerial insights into the interaction between firms and provides a guide for implementing the BOPS strategy in omnichannel retailing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In e‐commerce, online intermediaries give suppliers ready access to consumers and have thereby become an important distribution channel. They can operate as resellers (under a reselling contract) or marketplaces (under an agency contract) for suppliers. This study analyzes the most effective contract arrangement between an online intermediary and two competing suppliers. The suppliers receive online reviews of their products and also be affected by the spillover effect of the intermediary's channel on their own direct sales channels. The intermediary can offer a reselling contract to one supplier and an agency contract to the other or offer the same contract type to both suppliers. We find that when the cross‐channel spillover is positive or only moderately negative, the intermediary offers different contract types if the difference in the review ratings of the two suppliers' products is considerable; otherwise, a reselling contract is offered to both. However, when the cross‐channel spillover is highly negative, the intermediary may offer an agency contract to both suppliers. Our research provides practical guidance for intermediaries on the most effective contract strategies to use when collaborating with suppliers who receive varied online reviews, depending on the cross‐channel spillover scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manufacturers and retailers often advance sell seasonal products or services (e.g., holiday decorations, summer or winter entertainment). The authors examine advance selling in marketing channels to offer several insights. First, it is well established that a decentralized channel suffers from the issue of double marginalization; that is, the manufacturer and retailer both add positive margins when setting their prices, which results in inefficiently high retail prices. The authors find that, under a dynamic wholesale-price contract, advance selling can alleviate this double-marginalization problem and benefit the manufacturer, the retailer, and consumers. Second, the benefit of advance selling diminishes with the product's holding cost, the retailer's stockpiling ability, and the manufacturer's commitment to spot wholesale price. Third, with wholesale-price commitment, advance selling benefits the manufacturer and consumers but hurts the retailer; the manufacturer is better off making a price commitment only when its product's holding cost is sufficiently low and worse off otherwise. Last, the retailer's stockpiling ability decreases its own profit under a dynamic contract but increases it under a commitment contract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to analyze effective marketing strategies for innovative products from five state polytechnics in Indonesia. The research method employed a qualitative approach with data collection techniques involving in-depth interviews and document analysis, involving 20 respondents from various backgrounds, including polytechnic employees, students, business practitioners, and alumni. The data analysis was conducted using descriptive analysis and content analysis methods. The research findings indicate that the current marketing strategies for polytechnic innovation products are primarily limited to promotion through social media and polytechnic websites. The recommendations from this study include steps to enhance more effective marketing strategies. The first recommendation is to conduct market research to identify potential target markets. Subsequently, develop products that align with market needs, establish competitive pricing, and select appropriate distribution channels. Furthermore, the study suggests that successful marketing strategies require support from polytechnic management and trained human resources in marketing. Polytechnics should also build partnerships with industry and government agencies to expand their market reach and enhance the branding of their innovative products. Lastly, the research recommendations underscore the importance of using social media for innovative product promotion, strengthening collaboration with the industry, and optimizing available funds to expand the reach of polytechnic innovation product promotion. By implementing these recommendations, polytechnics can enhance the effectiveness of their marketing strategies and contribute to the success of marketing their flagship products from the five state polytechnics in Indonesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of Uganda, this study delves into gender-based strategies aimed at enhancing women's engagement in milk safety, value addition, and marketing within smallholder livestock farming. The objectives were two-fold: first, to document the current practices of women in milk safety, value addition, and marketing channels; second, to examine the constraints, opportunities, and strategies related to the production of safe milk and milk products, along with accessing sustainable markets. Conducted in four sub-counties of the Kiruhura district, this research employed both qualitative participatory methods and structured questionnaires, including 12 focused group discussions and 20 key informant interviews with both women and men. Notably, 217 structured questionnaires were administered. The findings illuminate that women played a central role in milk processing, water provisioning, sanitation, and hygiene practices and were the primary contributors to milk value addition, particularly in the production of butter and ghee. Despite their active involvement, women face challenges in accessing adequate milk quantities, employ traditional labor-intensive procedures, and encounter difficulties in marketing their processed products. Men, often the household heads, held decision-making authority over milk consumption and controlled the selling of milk, contributing to gender disparities. Addressing these challenges necessitates comprehensive support, including training and capacity-building initiatives for both men and women in milk value addition, credit access, and market entry. The study underscores the potential for improved women's access to milk quantities, particularly for butter and ghee production, to strengthen rural livelihoods and boost dairy production in Uganda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blowers are widely used in tasks such as ventilation, exhaust, drying, cooling, heat dissipation, or conveying medium, and they usually consume a lot of energy. There is an inevitable gap between the rotating impeller and static volute casing due to manufacturing tolerance and thermal deformation. The circulating flow in the gap has an important effect on the performance of the blower. In this study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used to investigate the performance of the blower under different flow conditions and gaps, and the accuracy of the numerical simulation was verified by performance experiments. The results show that the flow separation under low flow conditions in the impeller channel can be suppressed by the circulating flow. However, the efficiency of the blower is decreased because a part of the power is used to maintain the circulating flow. Under design conditions, efficiency is reduced by 5.3~8.2%, depending on the gap sizes. Due to the increased flow rate in the impeller channel caused by the gap circulating flow, the net flow rate of the impeller under design conditions is about 12% higher than the inlet flow rate of the blower. Therefore, it leads to an increase of about 12% in impeller efficiency calculated by the net flow rate compared with the inlet flow rate. Finally, the flow field distribution on the impeller channel under different gap conditions was compared, and the effects of the gap on the blower performance were analyzed from the perspective of flow field structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep learning (DL) models have shown promise for the accurate detection of atrial fibrillation (AF) from electrocardiogram/photoplethysmography (ECG/PPG) data, yet deploying these on resource-constrained wearable devices remains challenging. This study proposes integrating a customized channel attention mechanism to compress DL neural networks for AF detection, allowing the model to focus only on the most salient time-series features. The results demonstrate that applying compression through channel attention significantly reduces the total number of model parameters and file size while minimizing loss in detection accuracy. Notably, after compression, performance increases for certain model variants in key AF databases (ADB and C2017DB). Moreover, analyzing the learned channel attention distributions after training enhances the explainability of the AF detection models by highlighting the salient temporal ECG/PPG features most important for its diagnosis. Overall, this research establishes that integrating attention mechanisms is an effective strategy for compressing large DL models, making them deployable on low-power wearable devices. We show that this approach yields compressed, accurate, and explainable AF detectors ideal for wearables. Incorporating channel attention enables simpler yet more accurate algorithms that have the potential to provide clinicians with valuable insights into the salient temporal biomarkers of AF. Our findings highlight that the use of attention is an important direction for the future development of efficient, high-performing, and interpretable AF screening tools for wearable technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This study examines the optimal authorization strategy for an original equipment manufacturer (OEM), the optimal distribution channel choice for a platform, and their interactions. We developed four models based on the OEM's two strategy choices — authorization and non-authorization strategies, and the platform having two distribution channels for refurbished products: reselling and agency selling channels. Our results indicate that the authorization strategy is optimal for the OEM when consumer's preference for refurbished products is not sufficiently high. Unlike conventional research, an increase in the production cost of a new product leads to different choices for the OEM. Specifically, the OEM prefers a non-authorization strategy in the reselling channel and an authorization strategy in the agency selling channel. Moreover, under the OEM's authorization strategy, the platform always adopts a reselling channel for refurbished products. However, under the OEM's non-authorization strategy, the platform's choice is determined by the commission fee and the production cost of the new product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using primary data collected from 230 handloom micro-entrepreneurs of rural Assam, present study made an attempt to understand the marketing efficiency across different marketing channels of handloom products, and identify the factors determining handloom micro-entrepreneurs' decision to select a marketing channel. Marketing efficiency was examined using standardised indices. A multinomial logistic regression model was estimated for identifying the factors determining marketing channel choice decision of handloom micro-entrepreneurs. Analysis of data reveals that though the retailer channel was economically most efficient among the three identified marketing channels in the study area, majority of handloom micro-entrepreneurs have chosen the least efficient channel of travelling traders for selling their produce. Using travelling traders as reference category, the results of regression estimate suggest that education of the entrepreneurs, firm size, access to market information, collective action through weavers' groups, access to credits, and transaction cost-related factors significantly influenced the decision of handloom micro-entrepreneurs in the choice of marketing channels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the results of an experimental study, which was conducted in 2021 and briefly presented at the conference CIGRE Paris Session 2022, as a part of a joint initiative for comparative studies of PV inverters, of AGH University of Science and Technology and Tauron Dystrybucja (Polish DSO). The study was performed on a representative sample of 29 brand new PV inverters, widely available for sale in the EU, from over 20 various manufacturers from and outside the EU. For the purposes of this research, all tested PV have been made available by their manufacturers or regional distributors, which confirms the origin of the devices from official distribution channels and their designation for the EU market. The conducted research covers the technical aspects of PV inverters' operation and performance included in the NC RfG network code, technical standard EN-505049-1:2019, and internal regulations of distribution system operators governing PV inverter technical quality and its cooperation with the low-voltage distribution network. The national regulations may differ between individual EU member states. The paper describes the testing procedure, obtained results, conclusions, and recommendations for regulatory bodies and DSOs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In mini-grids and marine-isolated grids, power generation gas turbines are subjected to rapid start-up, shutdown, and acceleration/deceleration. This sudden load change can pose a significant impact on the power grid, severely affecting the operational characteristics of gas turbines. To understand the dynamic characteristics of the gas turbine in the transitional processes, this testing takes twin-shaft medium-sized power generation gas turbines as the test object, and goes through the process of startup, acceleration, deceleration, acceleration, shutdown in one hour, and repeats this process 40 times continuously. With fuel flow as the control parameter and power turbine outlet temperature and high-pressure turbine speed as the controlled parameters, the parameter response rate of the gas turbine under various transition processes is analyzed and the effect of thermal inertia on the gas turbine mass temperature as well as speed is studied. Research findings: During the transition processes, the gas temperature exhibited an axial gradient distribution in the channel. In both the acceleration and deceleration processes, the working fluid temperature gradually decreased along the flow direction. And thermal inertia posed different extents of impact on the dynamic characteristics of the gas turbine under different transitional processes. In the same transition process, the impacts of thermal inertia on the response speeds of temperature and rotational speed varied. The results of this study help to more accurately predict the operating state of the gas turbine during the transition process and lay the foundation for the dynamic simulation model of the non-adiabatic gas turbine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumer showrooming has become a common phenomenon in the retail industry, but little is known about its influence on the interplay between an upstream supplier and a downstream retailer in a distribution channel. Our study examines such an influence by considering an upstream supplier who sells a product through a downstream physical retailer based on a wholesale contract. At the same time, based on an agency contract, the supplier sells the product on an online retail platform where a nonneglectable amount of consumer returns occurs due to product misfits. We find that, on the one hand, consumer showrooming enables the supplier to take a greater share of the offline channel profit by exploiting the physical retailer's deterrence of showrooming. On the other hand, consumer showrooming as a mixed-channel shopping method makes the supplier less capable of adjusting the direct online demand according to its marginal cost of handling returns. Such a return-loss-propagation-moderating effect protects the downstream physical retailer from the upstream supplier's strategic pricing that intends to shift sales from offline to direct online when the supplier finds it cost efficient to handle online product returns. Our study also shows that the retailer can replace the wholesale contract with the store-within-a-store model with a rental fee contract to leverage the upstream supplier's incentive to mitigate the adverse effect of showrooming. The findings inform the physical retailer that the more critical issue may not be showrooming itself but aligning with the upstream supplier to promote offline sales in the presence of showrooming. This paper was accepted by Kartik Hosanagar, information systems. Funding: S. Kumar thanks Temple Center for International Business Education and Research for partially supporting this research. Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2020.01990. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Natural river diversion, or avulsion, controls the distribution of channels on a floodplain and channel sandstone bodies within fluvial stratigraphic architecture. Avulsions establish new flow paths and create channels through several recognized processes, or styles. These include reoccupying existing channels, or annexation, downcutting into the floodplain, or incision, and constructing new channels from crevasse‐splay distributary networks, or progradation. Recent remote sensing observations show that avulsion style changes systematically moving downstream along modern fluvial fans but, to date, no studies have assessed the significance of these trends on fluvial fan stratigraphy. Here, spatiotemporal changes in avulsion stratigraphy are investigated within the Salt Wash Member of the Morrison Formation, deposited in the Cordilleran foreland basin during the Late Jurassic epoch. Measured sections and photographic panels were analysed from 23 locations across the Salt Wash extent. Avulsion style was identified in the stratigraphic record by the basal contact of a channel storey with underlying strata: channel–channel contacts indicate annexation, channel–floodplain contacts indicate incision and channel–heterolithic contacts indicate progradation. Contact types change downstream, such that channel–channel and channel–floodplain contacts dominate proximal locations, while channel–heterolithic contacts become increasingly prevalent downstream. Outcrop results were compared to a numerical model of fluvial fan formation and remote‐sensing analysis of avulsions on modern fans. In both additional datasets, channels in proximal fan positions tend to avulse via annexation, reoccupying abandoned channels, while channels in more distal positions tend to avulse via increasingly significant progradation. These findings suggest a relationship between newly recognized downstream changes in avulsion style and well‐established downstream changes in fluvial fan architecture. Furthermore, this suggests that fan architecture can inform interpretations of ancient fluvial dynamics, including avulsion behaviour, and that avulsions can cause stratigraphically significant and measurable changes to fan architecture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies the issue of capacity allocation in multi-rank distribution channel management, a topic that has been significantly overlooked in the existing literature. Departing from conventional approaches, hierarchical priority rules are introduced as constraints, and an innovative assignment integer programming model focusing on capacity selection is formulated. This model goes beyond merely optimizing profit or cost, aiming instead to enhance the overall business orientation of the firm. We propose a greedy algorithm and a priority-based binary particle swarm optimization (PB-BPSO) algorithm. Our numerical results indicate that both algorithms exhibit strong optimization capabilities and rapid solution speeds, especially in large-scale scenarios. Moreover, the model is validated through empirical tests using real-world data. The results demonstrate that the proposed approaches can provide actionable strategies to operators, in practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today's globalized world, where travel has become more accessible than ever before, there is a growing interest in exploring new, exotic destinations beyond the borders of Europe. Non-European tourist destinations are gaining popularity as European tourists cross the boundaries of their continent to discover the richness of culture, natural beauty, and unique experiences that distant countries offer. The main goal of the research is to examine the motivation and decision-making processes of European tourists when choosing non-European tourist destinations. Various motivational factors such as cultural curiosity, the search for adventure, value for money, and social influences that affect tourists' decisions are analyzed. In addition, the study also addresses the impact of marketing channels, including the role of social media, on tourists' decision-making processes. By analyzing the interaction of personal motivations and external influences, the paper contributes to a deeper understanding of how European tourists navigate the wide range of non-European tourist destinations. The conclusions of this study can inform stakeholders in the tourism industry, including destination marketers and travel agencies, in adapting their offers to better meet the needs and preferences of European tourists seeking experiences beyond Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the needs, preferences, and behaviors of its target market in the Indonesian full-service restaurant (FSR) sector. Firstly, it seeks to map the customer journey of FSRs in the food supplies purchasing process, identifying key touchpoints, brand awareness levels, information sources, and factors influencing brand choice. Secondly, it evaluates the effectiveness of various digital marketing channels, such as social media advertising, search engine marketing, and email marketing, by analyzing cost-per-lead and conversion rates to identify the most efficient channels for acquiring new FSR customers for PT MBI. Finally, the research intends to develop a data-driven digital marketing strategy that optimizes customer interactions, enhance brand visibility, and improve lead generation at each decision-making stage to drive sales conversions and increase customer lifetime value. The results of this study show that the current focus of PTXYZin the FSR segment lies between two segments: Relationship-Driven Traditionalists and Hybrid Decision-Makers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) represents a pivotal approach in contemporary business, emphasising the coordination and integration of various communication tools to achieve a coherent and consistent message. This research investigates how Croatian companies have integrated IMC into their marketing strategies within the Croatian business environment. The findings indicate a growing trend of adopting this integrated approach, with a primary focus on consistency, personalisation and effectiveness of IMC activities. A synergy between marketing communication channels and an emphasis on adaptable, innovative IMC strategies has been recognised. However, challenges such as inter-departmental coordination within companies and optimisation of IMC strategies are pointed out as areas that require further attention. Despite these challenges, Croatian companies recognise the importance and potential of IMC as a strategic tool to enhance their market visibility and competitive advantage. Considering the dynamism of the market environment, continuous innovation, education, and adaptation are crucial for achieving the long-term success of IMC strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Olive is considered the main crop that is cultivated in South Sinai Governorate. Despite this importance, it is noted that there are deficiencies in the marketing system of olive in South Sinai Governorate. Therefore, the study aimed to analyze the marketing systems of olive, determine their efficiency, uncover the problems they suffer from, and then suggest appropriate solutions to them. To achieve this goal, the study used the descriptive analysis method and relied on the questionnaire as a main tool for data collection, through a random sample of olive producers in the villages of Ras Masla and Abu Suwayra in Ras Sidr District. The sample size was 80 farmers, and data was collected during the 2023/2024 agricultural season. The findings indicated that there are four marketing channels for olives in South Sinai Governorate: selling as a kalala, selling to a wholesaler on the farm, selling to a retailer on the farm, and selling in the wholesale market. By estimating the marketing efficiency of olives according to the different marketing methods, it was found that selling in the wholesale market ranked first at about 61.3%, followed by selling to the retailer in the farm at about 58.2%, then selling to the wholesaler in the farm at about 56.7%. According to the respondent's opinions, the marketing problems of olive in South Sinai Governorate are mainly represented by the rise in transportation and labor costs, and the sharp price rise in fuel and production inputs. Accordingly, the study recommends reducing the prices of production inputs, opening new outlets for marketing and manufacturing olives, and improving the performance of marketing operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]