bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Process evolution in cell and gene therapy from discovery to commercialization
Authors: Csaszar Elizabeth , Mills Sara , Zandstra Peter W.
Published: April 2021

The field of cell and gene therapy (CGT) is maturing at a rapid rate. Manufacturing remains a major challenge and manufacturing failures and limitations are a notable source of CGT products not meeting specification or being held back from regulatory approvals. To ensure that products remain compliant and competitive throughout their lifecycle, CGT process development requires both ongoing advancement of fit‐for‐purpose technologies to allow for and support well‐designed development studies, and a methodology that enables these studies to occur effectively during focused product development campaigns. We describe a framework for ongoing innovation in CGT process development, manufacturing, and clinical testing, based on the quality by design (QbD) approach. We propose use of the concepts of process discovery, process characterization, and process development in an iterative way to refine the design space as a product matures. This strategy is enabled by the early implementation of broad and robust analytics, and a modular approach to accelerate optimization. With these strategies, CGT developers can prospectively plan for comparability studies and develop in a stage‐appropriate manner, to allow for ongoing innovation and improvements from discovery through to commercialization.
Early ultrasound evaluation identifies excellent responders to neoadjuvant systemic therapy among patients with triple‐negative breast cancer
Authors: Adrada Beatriz E. , Candelaria Rosalind , Moulder Stacy , Thompson Alastair , Wei Peng , Whitman Gary J. , Valero Vicente , Litton Jennifer K. , Santiago Lumarie , Scoggins Marion E. , Moseley Tanya W. , White Jason B. , Ravenberg Elizabeth E. , Yang Wei T. , Rauch Gaiane M.
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Heterogeneity exists in the response of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) to standard anthracycline (AC)/taxane‐based neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NAST), with 40% to 50% of patients having a pathologic complete response (pCR) to therapy. Early assessment of the imaging response during NAST may identify a subset of TNBCs that are likely to have a pCR upon completion of treatment. The authors aimed to evaluate the performance of early ultrasound (US) after 2 cycles of neoadjuvant NAST in identifying excellent responders to NAST among patients with TNBC.

METHODS

Two hundred fifteen patients with TNBC were enrolled in the ongoing ARTEMIS (A Robust TNBC Evaluation Framework to Improve Survival) clinical trial. The patients were divided into a discovery cohort (n = 107) and a validation cohort (n = 108). A receiver operating characteristic analysis with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and a multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to model the probability of a pCR on the basis of the tumor volume reduction (TVR) percentage by US from the baseline to after 2 cycles of AC.

RESULTS

Overall, 39.3% of the patients (42 of 107) achieved a pCR. A positive predictive value (PPV) analysis identified a cutoff point of 80% TVR after 2 cycles; the pCR rate was 77% (17 of 22) in patients with a TVR ≥ 80%, and the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.84 (95% CI, 0.77‐0.92; P < .0001). In the validation cohort, the pCR rate was 44%. The PPV for pCR with a TVR ≥ 80% after 2 cycles was 76% (95% CI, 55%‐91%), and the AUC was 0.79 (95% CI, 0.70‐0.87; P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The TVR percentage by US evaluation after 2 cycles of NAST may be a cost‐effective early imaging biomarker for a pCR to AC/taxane‐based NAST.
Non‐electrolytic‐capacitor boost converter with non‐pulsating ripple‐free output current
Authors: Zhang Guidong , Chen Weichen , Yu Samson S. , Zhang Yun
Published: April 2021

A novel boost converter is proposed in this study, which is based on a newly designed impedance network, instead of using the traditional Z‐network structure and large electrolytic capacitors (ECs) to suppress current ripples. Besides, the proposed topology has ripple‐free output current, which is designed to improve the output current quality of the traditional boost converter and to enhance the voltage conversion ratio compared to the traditional Z‐network boost converter. The newly proposed impedance network consists of two inductor and capacitor (LC) pairs—one LC pair function as the intermediate energy transferring branch and the other pair as the output branch to obtain non‐pulsating output current. The operating principle and performance of the proposed converter are analyzed in detail for demonstrating its advanced features. Furthermore, the feasibility of the proposed converter topology is validated by its simulations and experimental studies. Compared to ECs, non‐electrolytic capacitors (NECs) have the benefit of low cost, small size, and long operating life, which brings high economical advantages to the proposed converter with enhanced voltage conversion performances.
Non‐isolated high step‐up/step‐down quadratic converter for light‐emitting diode driving
Authors: Corrêa Douglas Rosa , de Morais Aniel Silva , Tofoli Fernando Lessa
Published: April 2021

This work presents an alternating current–direct current (AC–DC) single‐switch quadratic single‐ended primary inductance converter (SEPIC) for applications involving light‐emitting diodes (LEDs). The proposed topology is basically composed of two cascaded SEPIC stages, where the first one provides input power factor correction (PFC) and the second one allows obtaining power control (PC) for dimming purposes. It is also capable of providing high step‐up or step‐down without requiring the use of extreme duty ratios. A detailed qualitative analysis is derived, from which it is possible to obtain a consistent design procedure. Experimental results from a laboratory prototype are thoroughly discussed aiming at validating the theoretical assumptions.
Silylating Disulfides and Thiols with Hydrosilicones Catalyzed by B(C6F5)3
Authors: Liao Mengchen , Zheng Sijia , Brook Michael A.
Published: April 2021

Hydrosilanes and silicones, catalyzed with B(C6F5)3, may be used to silylate thiols or cleave disulfides giving silyl thio ethers. Alcohols were found to react faster than thiols or disulfides, while alkoxysilanes (the Piers‐Rubinsztajn reaction) were slower such that the overall order of reactivity was found to be HO>HS>SS>SiOEt. The resulting silane and silicone‐protected thio ethers produced from the sulfur‐based functional groups could be cleaved to thiols using alcohols or mild acid with rates that depend on the steric bulk of the siloxane.
Investigation of Silicon Solar Cells under Submerged Conditions with the Influence of Various Parameters: A Comparative Study
Authors: Enaganti Prasanth K. , Goel Sanket
Published: April 2021

Solar photovoltaic (PV) is one of the emerging technologies in underwater power systems such as water monitoring and sensing devices in marine environments. Harnessing the underwater solar energy is a massive advantage because of the abundant amount of solar energy and space covered by water on the surface of the Earth. Currently, the utilization of underwater solar PV systems has several issues such as cooling, cleaning, and land constraints facing in terrestrial conditions. Still, the PV systems has the ability to operate in underwater environments and to interface with other marine power systems in a hybrid manner. Therefore, there is a need to further study and understand the utility of solar PV in underwater conditions. Herein, a comparative analysis on underwater solar radiation and the performance of various silicon solar cells using different water conditions, in a controlled indoor atmosphere, are carried out. The propagation of solar radiation underwater is investigated as a function of water depths and changing water settings such as in the presence of dissolved salts and solids. This work demonstrates that the solar energy in water can also be extracted with solar PV cells to produce electricity for several industrial, defense, naval, and marine applications.
UV sensitive ZnO and TiO2‐ZnO nanocrystalline transparent glass‐ceramic materials for photocatalytic decontamination of surface water and textile industry wastewater
Authors: Abdel‐Wahed Mahmoud S. , Abdel‐Karim Ahmed , Margha Fatma H. , Gad‐Allah Tarek A.
Published: April 2021

The dispersion of pollutants in the aquatic environment is an emerging health concern worldwide. In this sense, it is essential to develop new materials that can improve the treatment quality of both water and wastewater. The present study has demonstrated evidence of the applicability of recyclable glass‐ceramic materials for the efficient photocatalytic treatment of real surface water and textile industry wastewater. Two glass compositions containing TiO2 or ZnO‐TiO2 have been investigated. The studied materials exhibited good performance in terms of humic acid and COD removal from raw surface water and textile industry wastewater, respectively. However, ZnO‐TiO2 glass‐ceramic photocatalyst was the best photocatalyst with maximum efficiency of 53% HA removal from surface water and 75% decolorization (or 60% COD removal) of wastewater. What is more, the reusability tests confirmed a minor variation (<4%) in the photocatalytic efficacy for three consecutive usages. Therefore, the prepared materials are suitable for the applications in which reusability is an important key factor such as water and wastewater decontamination.
Updated probabilistic seismic performance assessment framework for ordinary standard bridges in California
Authors: Deb Angshuman , Zha Alex L. , Caamaño‐Withall Zachary A. , Conte Joel P. , Restrepo José I.
Published: April 2021

With the recent advent of performance‐based earthquake engineering (PBEE) in seismic design practice of buildings serving as an impetus for this work, initial steps toward a fully probabilistic performance‐based seismic design (PBSD) method for bridges, a less trodden area in terms of PBEE applications, are taken herein by assembling an updated probabilistic seismic performance assessment framework for ordinary standard bridges (OSBs) in California. The framework stems from the comprehensive PBEE methodology developed under the auspices of the Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research (PEER) Center. With performance measures defined as the risk associated with the exceedance of a set of damage/limit‐states (LSs), improvements from the state‐of‐the‐art literature on the PEER PBEE methodology are incorporated, including (1) introduction of an improved intensity measure ‐ average spectral acceleration over a period range, (2) conditional mean spectrum‐based hazard‐consistent and site‐specific ground motion selection, (3) introduction of material strain‐based engineering demand parameters, (4) use of practical LSs pertinent to seismic damage evaluation of bridges, and (5) development of strain‐based normalized fragility functions for the considered LSs. The updated framework, assembled herein using a specific testbed California OSB as a case in point, is general within its scope and is applicable to the gamut of design situations representative of the population of OSBs in California. With the PEER PBEE framework implemented for OSBs in an updated and rigorous form, the groundwork for utilizing this framework in the context of PBSD of such bridges is laid.
The impact of pharmacist‐led antifungal stewardship interventions in the hospital setting: a systematic review
Authors: Khanina Anna , Cairns Kelly A. , Kong David C. M. , Thursky Karin A. , Slavin Monica A. , Roberts Jason A.
Published: April 2021

Aim

To summarise the evidence on pharmacist‐led antifungal stewardship (AFS) programs in the hospital setting and to evaluate their impact on the quality of antifungal prescribing and infection management, antifungal usage and clinical outcomes.

Data sources

A systematic review of English‐language studies identified in MEDLINE and EMBASE was performed on 27 November 2020 and conducted in accordance with PRISMA. Search terms included ‘antifungal agent’, ‘invasive fungal infection’, ‘antimicrobial stewardship’, ‘patient care bundles’ and ‘pharmacist’.

Study selection

Eligible studies describing pharmacist‐led quality improvement intervention(s) implemented in the hospital setting targeted at optimising systemic antifungal prescribing.

Results

Six hundred and forty‐six studies were identified, and seven met inclusion criteria. Five were dedicated to optimising candidaemia management, one at optimising intensive care unit prescribing of caspofungin and one on antifungal prescribing in haematology and oncology units. All studies measured varied metrics relating to quality of prescribing and infection management, reporting improvement in proportion of effective antifungal therapy (n = 1/1), appropriate antifungal selection (n = 1/1), dosing (n = 2/3), management of drug–drug interactions (n = 1/1) and reduced time to antifungal initiation (n = 4/4). Studies that implemented a candidaemia bundle of care reported improvements in composite bundle adherence (n = 2/2), with greatest improvement in ophthalmological consultation (n = 4/4), echocardiography (n = 2/2) and infectious diseases consultation (n = 3/3). There was reduction in antifungal expenditure (n = 4/4) and consumption (n = 2/4). Pharmacist‐led AFS programs did not influence clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

Available evidence suggests that pharmacist‐led AFS interventions can improve the quality and timeliness of antifungal prescribing and reduce antifungal usage. Further research is required to assess the impact on clinical and microbiological outcomes.
Recent developments and characterization techniques in 3D printing of corneal stroma tissue
Authors: Ulag Songul , Uysal Ebru , Bedir Tuba , Sengor Mustafa , Ekren Nazmi , Ustundag Cem Bulent , Midha Swati , Kalaskar Deepak M. , Gunduz Oguzhan
Published: April 2021

Corneal stroma has a significant function in normal visual function. The corneal stroma is vulnerable because of being the thickest part of the cornea, as it can be affected easily by infections or injuries. Any problems on corneal stroma can result in blindness. Donor shortage for corneal transplantation is one of the main issues in corneal transplantation. To address this issue, the corneal tissue engineering focuses on replacing injured tissues and repairing normal functions. Currently, there are no available, engineered corneal tissues for widely accepted routine clinical treatment, but new emerging 3D printing applications are being recognized as a promising option. Recent in vitro researches revealed that the biocompatibility and regeneration possessions of 3D‐printed hydrogels outperformed conventional tissue engineering approaches. The goal of this review is to highlight the current developments in the characterization of 3D cell‐free and bioprinted hydrogels.
Standardization for 13C‐13C clumped isotope analysis by the fluorination method
Authors: Taguchi Koudai , Gilbert Alexis , Ueno Yuichiro
Published: April 2021

Rationale

The 13C‐13C isotopologues of C2 molecules have recently been measured using a fluorination method. The C2 compound is first fluorinated into hexafluoroethane (C2F6), and its 13C‐isotopologues are subsequently measured using a conventional isotope ratio mass spectrometer. Here, we present an approach for standardizing the fluorination method on an absolute reference scale by using isotopically enriched C2F6.

Methods

We prepared physical mixtures of 13C‐13C‐labeled ethanol and natural ethanol. The enriched ethanol samples were measured using the recently developed fluorination method. Based on the difference between the calculated and measured ∆13C13C values, we quantified the extent to which isotopologues were scrambled during dehydration, fluorination, and ionization in the ion source.

Results

The measured ∆13C13C value was approximately 20% lower than that expected from the amount of 13C‐13C ethanol. The potential scrambling in the ion source was estimated to be 0.5–2%, which is lower than the observed isotopic reordering. Therefore, isotopic reordering may have occurred during either dehydration or fluorination.

Conclusions

For typical analysis of natural samples, scrambling in the ion source can only change the ∆13C13C value by less than 0.04‰, which is lower than the current analytical precision (±0.07‰). Therefore, the observed isotopic reordering may have occurred during the fluorination of ethene through the scrambling of isotopologues of ethene but not in the ion source of the mass spectrometer or during the dehydration of ethanol, given the small amount of C1 and C3+ molecules. Thus, we obtained the empirical transfer function ∆13C13CCSC = λ × ∆13C13C with a λ value of 1.25 ± 0.01 for ethanol/ethene and 1.00 for ethane. Using the empirical transfer function, the developed fluorination method can provide actual differences in ∆ values.
Incremental stability of stochastic time‐varying impulsive and switching systems
Authors: Jiao Ticao , Zong Guangdeng , Park Ju H. , Liu Jian , Zhao Yanlei
Published: April 2021

In this article, the incremental stability problem is addressed for stochastic time‐varying impulsive and switching systems. Both cases of stable continuous subsystems with destabilizing impulses and unstable continuous subsystems with stabilizing impulses are fully considered. By resorting to contraction theory and the Lyapunov function approach together with the dwell time technique, sufficient criteria are established to achieve practical incrementally globally asymptotic stability. Finally, the feasibility of these results is verified by a numerical example.
Study of the effects of Ni+ ion implantation on morphology, structure, hardness, and electrical conductivity of brass
Authors: Shahnawaz Muhammad
Published: April 2021

In this study, nickel ions were implanted in brass at 2.0‐MeV energy doses ranging from 1.9 × 1014, 4.8 × 1014, and 1.0 × 1015 ions cm−2 at room temperature. Formation of micro size particle cluster, crater, void, rust, and flower‐like structure were observed in scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs. XRD patterns explain the plane (1 1 1) and plane (2 2 0) under abrupt fluctuations, but in plane (2 0 0), systematic changes occur after ion implantation. Modifications in crystallite size, lattice strain, and dislocation density were discussed. In all the implanted specimens, values of hardness were smaller as compared with the unimplanted one. Precise changes occurred in the value of d‐spacing that produced alteration in electrical conductivity at the initial ion doses. Therefore, electrical conductivity values were changed from 3.980E6 (S/m) to 2.966E7 (S/m). Further increment in the ion dose, electrical conductivity reduced to recover its value. Initial trend of hardness and electrical conductivity was nonlinear, but both tend to recuperate their values in the end. In FT‐IR spectra, three new bands were formed at 1261, 1417, and 1455 cm−1 after ion implantation that was due to change in bonding of brass.
Effect of the Initial P Content on Dephosphorization of Hot Metal with Low Basicity Slag at 1623 K
Authors: Yang Wenkui , Yang Jian , Zhang Runhao , Sun Han
Published: April 2021

The effect of the initial P content ranging from 0.057% to 0.292% in hot metal on dephosphorization with low basicity (CaO/SiO2) slag at 1623 K is investigated using high‐temperature laboratorial experiments. With increasing initial P content in the hot metal, the dephosphorization ratio increases first and then decreases, with the highest dephosphorization ratio of 83.2% at the initial P content in the hot metal of 0.173%. The phases in dephosphorization slags are basically consistent, which are mainly composed of nCa2SiO4‐Ca3(PO4)2, Ca2SiO4, metal oxide, Ca3(PO4)2, Ca3Mg(SiO4)2, Ca2Fe2O5, and MgAl2O4. The compositions of all the P‐rich phases are close to the connection line between Ca2SiO4 and Ca3(PO4)2 in the phase diagram. In addition, with increasing the initial P content in hot metal, the viscosity and activation energy values of the dephosphorization slag increases at the present dephosphorization temperature of 1623 K and the values of the activation energy of the dephosphorization slags increase gradually. The area fractions of Q0 + Q1 (Qi, i is the number of bridging oxygen per silicon atom) units decrease, whereas those of the Q2 + Q3 units increase. The average number of nonbridging oxygen per silicon atom (NBO/Si) value decreases, indicating that the degree of the polymerization (DOP) of the corresponding dephosphorization slag increases resulting in the increased viscosity.
Current status and perspective of colored photovoltaic modules
Authors: Lee Hyunho , Song Hyung‐Jun
Published: April 2021

Photovoltaic (PV) systems, which directly convert solar light into electricity, are one of the most attractive renewable energy sources to fulfill the increased demand for clean energy. The accumulated installation of PV systems has expanded rapidly, reaching over 700 GW in 2020. Although black colored PVs maximize energy generation by harvesting a broad range of solar light, their monotonous color limits their installation in urban areas and portable devices where the harmonization of color with neighboring exterior elements is a high priority. Moreover, it is not suitable for covering transparent area of buildings, such as window and curtain wall. Hence, the demand for aesthetic PV systems is increasing significantly. In this review, we focus on the current status of colored PV systems and their prospects for aesthetic energy harvesting system. This work reviews possible approaches to realize colored PV systems by implementing semitransparent cells, selective reflective films, and luminophores. Additionally, the research progress to minimize light sacrifice for color production has been investigated. Moreover, the technical limitations of each technology for colored PV systems are presented in terms of color purity and efficiency. Finally, obstacles to commercialization and their solutions are discussed. Therefore, this study provides a crucial review of the latest developments and current status in the field of colored PV systems.

This article is categorized under:

Photovoltaics > Science and Materials
Conclusion: Divergences or Convergences? Facilitating Active Citizenship Through Adult Education Across Europe and Beyond
Authors: Toiviainen Hanna , Kersh Natasha , Zarifis George K. , Pitkänen Pirkko
Published: April 2021

The chapter draws the lines of discussion of the book together and scrutinises the findings from the perspectives motivating the EduMAP study. A multiplicity of adult education policies, programmes and actions presented in the book sought answers to the question: What policies and practices are needed in the field of adult education to include young adults at risk of social exclusion in active participatory citizenship in Europe? Each contribution in this volume approached the question from original social and educational starting points, which may further be elaborated on within the national, European and wider contexts. Chapter includes reflections on alternatives to the discourse of Neo-liberal Life-Long Learning and Adult Education, the expectations vs. reality of Adult Education as a means to prevent social exclusion, and key conclusions outlining the future challenges for Active Participatory Citizenship pursued through adult education.
Segmentation Choices
Authors: Jeannet Jean-Pierre , Volery Thierry , Bergmann Heiko , Amstutz Cornelia
Published: April 2021

At the outset of this chapter, the need to treat segmentation as distinct from focusing is explained. Both are important, and both have to be addressed separately. Successful segmentation implies choices, and carving out a segment from a market space is something that requires both skill and attention. Description of how to define segments is offered. The practice of targeting multiple segments, and how to define subsegments is explained, as well as how companies can play the product features game. Technology segments are not market segments. Special cases are premium price segments, high-volume segments, and niche segments, and when one or the other might apply. The chapter ends with the description of what a true niche segment strategy entails. A link between segmenting and a company’s internal organization is established.
International Sales and Distribution Strategies
Authors: Jeannet Jean-Pierre , Volery Thierry , Bergmann Heiko , Amstutz Cornelia
Published: April 2021

This chapter covers the history of the international market development of the researched firms and in addition how these companies established agent networks, built sales subsidiaries worldwide, or enlisted partnerships, and how they reacted to constantly changing market developments requiring adjustments in their distribution networks. The early founders of Swiss SMEs engaged in extensive travel to promote their companies at a time when the transport infrastructure was still rudimentary. Distributors and agent networks were built and still maintained by smaller companies, at times expanded to include formal distribution partnerships. Subsidiary networks were the preferred choice of larger companies which had greater volumes per country markets. Sometimes, market entry was achieved by building or acquiring manufacturing operations. Cracking some of the most difficult markets, such as Japan, posed special challenges. And finally, when industry conditions changed, even well-planned distribution strategies needed to be changed.
Marketing and Sales Processes
Authors: Jeannet Jean-Pierre , Volery Thierry , Bergmann Heiko , Amstutz Cornelia
Published: April 2021

Not different from many other, larger companies, marketing and sales processes at SMEs have undergone constant changes. The chapter details how SMEs dealt with the tension between marketing and sales, how they differentiated in B2B vs. B2C environments. For B2C companies, global brand building becomes important. All firms, regardless of industry environment, had constantly professionalized the marketing process. Choosing a product or company name can be crucial in a global environment. In the B2B environment, marketing and selling differ from the consumer markets and are focused more on application-driven sales, key account systems, and reliance on lead customers. Examples from adopting key account systems and enlisting lead customers are provided.
Supply Chain Choices
Authors: Jeannet Jean-Pierre , Volery Thierry , Bergmann Heiko , Amstutz Cornelia
Published: April 2021

To what extent did SMEs consider active involvement in production as a necessary element of their strategy and how they approached value chain integration to enhance their efficiency are the focus of this chapter. Driven by the necessity of economics and efficiency, SMEs have taken different directions on the integration of their supply chains, ranging from purchasing of components to the final assembly of products. There are a number of integrators who cover the entire supply chain with their firms, sometime even acquiring key suppliers. Many more of the companies are partial integrators, and a few can be characterized as assemblers only. Two examples of firms exist who are specifiers/designers, and operate without their own manufacturing operation, having adopted the fabless state.
Founders, Shakers, Prime Movers
Authors: Jeannet Jean-Pierre , Volery Thierry , Bergmann Heiko , Amstutz Cornelia
Published: April 2021

This chapter introduces the reader to the principal actors of these stories, namely the founders, organized along major periods, and their backgrounds. Listed are early period founders, those from the interwar period, during World War II period, the Post WW II “Baby Boomer” generation, and founders from the most recent period. Separately listed from founders are prime movers who gave the company the eventual direction, if different from the company founders. The role of women, to the extent involved, is also covered. A complete list of the firms is provided, as well as information on founder backgrounds.
Leveraging Local Competitiveness
Authors: Jeannet Jean-Pierre , Volery Thierry , Bergmann Heiko , Amstutz Cornelia
Published: April 2021

How do SMEs, competing for global export markets, remain competitive when operating, to a large extent, from Switzerland, one of the world’s most expensive countries? Data compiled annually by the IMD World Competitive Report document that the cost of a single hour of labor in Switzerland is one of the highest in the world, while at the same time productivity per hour is also one of the highest, partially mitigating any cost disadvantage. Ricola, the herbal candy maker, serves as an example of a highly automated production practice that many companies have adopted.
Epilog: Implications for Public Policy
Authors: Jeannet Jean-Pierre , Volery Thierry , Bergmann Heiko , Amstutz Cornelia
Published: April 2021

What then are the implications of these research findings reported in Masterpieces of Swiss Entrepreneurship? And for which communities might they be relevant?
Achieving Ownership Stability
Authors: Jeannet Jean-Pierre , Volery Thierry , Bergmann Heiko , Amstutz Cornelia
Published: April 2021

Stability of ownership is a big issue among SME owners. This chapter deals with strategies to preserve and guarantee ownership stability. The experience of founders and owners in applying foundation structures are described. Approaches to provide ownership stability as a public company are described. Special situations covered are employee ownership, and how to maintain stability in ownership with private investors. Examples are provided for situations when ownership stability fails. Finally, the chapter concludes with a differentiation between independence of a firm vs. autonomy in making key decisions.
Business Focus Choices
Authors: Jeannet Jean-Pierre , Volery Thierry , Bergmann Heiko , Amstutz Cornelia
Published: April 2021

This chapter will highlight the fact that “Focus” is not just “Focus” by identifying five different types of focus choices. Older companies began in a given industry sector and remained loyal to that sector, adopting an industry focus. Past experience in a given sector can lead to business focus. For many firms, core competence served as the basis for building an entire company. Some companies define their focus strategy around a given technology. Focusing on a single market provides, and necessitates, in-depth knowledge of the operating conditions of a company’s customers.
Fields of Applications and Transport-Related Potentials of Small Electric Vehicles in Germany
Authors: Eisenmann Christine , Gruber Johannes , Brost Mascha , Ewert Amelie , Stieler Sylvia , Gicklhorn Katja
Published: April 2021

The possible applications of small electric vehicles, i.e., electric cargo bikes and three- and four-wheeled L-class vehicles in transport, are discussed, and potential business models are presented. Moreover, transport-related potentials are analyzed. Therefore, we have utilized a multi-method approach: we conducted qualitative interviews with experts and professionals in the field of light and small electric vehicles and carried out quantitative analyses with the national household travel survey mobility in Germany 2017. Our results show that, theoretically, small electric vehicles could be used for 20–50% of private trips (depending on the model). On these trips, however, they would not only replace car trips, but also trips on public transport or by bicycle and on foot. In commercial transport, these vehicles are particularly suitable for service trips and some last-mile deliveries. If small electric vehicles were to replace a significant share of the transport volumes of motorized passenger and commercial transport, they could contribute to climate protection.
BICAR—Urban Light Electric Vehicle
Authors: Dennig Hans-Jörg , Burri Adrian , Ganz Philipp
Published: April 2021

This paper describes the technical features of the light electric vehicle (L2e-category) named BICAR. This specially designed vehicle is an all-in-one emissions-free micro-mobility solution providing a cost-effective and sustainable mobility system while supporting the transition towards a low carbon society (smart and sustainable city concept). The BICAR represents part of a multimodal system, complementing public transport with comfort and safety, relieving inner-city congestion and solving the “first and last mile” issue. The BICAR is the lightest and smallest three-wheel vehicle with weather protection. Due to the space-saving design, six to nine BICARS will fit into a single standard parking space. Safety is increased by an elevated driving position and a tilting mechanism when cornering. The BICAR achieves a range of 40–60 km depending on the battery package configuration in urban transport at a speed of 45 km/h. It features a luggage storage place and exchangeable, rechargeable batteries. The BICAR can be driven without a helmet thanks to the safety belt system, which is engineered for street approved tests. The BICAR has an integrated telematic box connected to the vehicle electronics and communicating with the dedicated mobile application, through which the BICAR can be geo-localised, reserved, locked/unlocked and remotely maintained.
Conception and Development of a Last Mile Vehicle for Urban Areas
Authors: Höfer Andreas , Esl Erhard , Türk Daniel , Hüttinger Veronika
Published: April 2021

In megacities, increasing globalization effects are leading to rapidly increasing prosperity and augmented purchasing power, and thus to a growing need for punctual, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly delivery of goods. A smart, small electric vehicle concept is presented that targets on meeting the requirements for the delivery of goods in urban areas and that is designed especially for the delivery on the last mile. This last mile vehicle (LMV) for cargo transportation is attached to a truck. Whenever it is needed, for example to deliver goods into narrow streets, in pedestrian areas or in case of traffic jams, it can be unfolded and unloaded from the truck and hereby guarantees a flexible and punctual delivery of goods. This flexible on-time delivery is possible because the last mile vehicle is designed, so that the legal regulations of the non-motorized vehicle lane, that is everywhere to be found in Asia, are met. The vehicle is designed with three wheels, a range of 40-60 km and an electric drive train with a continuous power of 2 × 250 W that enables a maximum speed up to 40 km/h of the vehicle. The drive train consists of a battery pack that can be charged electrically from the truck, two inverters, and two electric wheel hub motors. The LMV has been designed and constructed as a prototype and has been tested on non-public roads to prove the vehicle concept. For Europe, it can be classified as an L2e vehicle and with slight modifications; it can be applied on European roads as well.
Development of the Safe Light Regional Vehicle (SLRV): A Lightweight Vehicle Concept with a Fuel Cell Drivetrain
Authors: Kriescher Michael , Scheibe Sebastian , Maag Tilo
Published: April 2021

The safe light regional vehicle (SLRV) concept was developed within the DLR project next-generation car (NGC). NGC SLRV addresses the safety concern of typical L7e vehicles. The SLRV is therefore specifically designed to demonstrate significant improvements to the passive safety of small vehicles. Another important goal of the NGC SLRV concept is to offer solutions to some of the main challenges of electric vehicles: to provide an adequate range and at the same time a reasonable price of the vehicle. In order to address these challenges a major goal of the concept is to minimize the driving resistance of the vehicle, by use of lightweight sandwich structures. A fuel cell drivetrain also helps to keep the overall size and weight of the vehicle low, while still providing sufficient range.
The UK Approach to Greater Market Acceptance of Powered Light Vehicles (PLVs)
Authors: Davies Huw , Hutchinson Allan , Barrett Richard , Campbell Tony , Eastlake Andy
Published: April 2021

This paper summarises the UK activity for powered light vehicles (PLVs) with the purpose of driving market acceptance. If alternative vehicle concepts are to emerge from the margins and transition into the main stream, there is a need to think differently. This opportunity has motivated a number of UK organisations to come together as a working group and identify a way forward. We contend that thinking differently requires a reshaping of the whole value chain. Each of the partners has contributed to this activity and we describe the development of a pathway towards the realisation of a UK PLV market. Research and policy development requirements for the UK market are defined, supported by a discussion on two specific segments of the PLV market—light freight vehicles and micromobility.
The ELVITEN Project as Promoter of LEVs in Urban Mobility: Focus on the Italian Case of Genoa
Authors: Misso Francesco Edoardo , Di Ruocco Irina , Repetto Cino
Published: April 2021

One of the growing innovations in the electric vehicle market concerns light electric vehicles (LEVs), promoted at local and national level by many initiatives, such as the European project ELVITEN, involving six cities, which is analysed in the present paper in relation to the Genoa pilot case study. In Italy, LEVs have been increasingly successful, as the number of their registrations shows (+76% in 2019 compared to 2018). In this context, the city of Genoa, where a considerable fleet of mopeds and motorcycles (214,499 in its metropolitan area in 2018) circulates, lends itself well to the experimentation of two-wheeled LEVs. The monitoring of the use of LEVs within the framework of the ELVITEN project has shown that the average daily round trips recorded in the metropolitan area of Genoa are equal to 15–20 km, thus reinforcing the idea that LEVs represent a valid alternative to Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) private vehicles. Moreover, the characteristics of the travel monitored and the users’ feedback highlight that the question of range anxiety is less present than expected. Finally, and contrary to our expectations, the data analysis indicates that the use of LEVs in Genoa during two months of Covid-19 pandemic lockdown—March and April 2020—shows a decrease of 21%, while the average decrease recorded by the six cities globally considered is 51%.
Small Electric Vehicles in Commercial Transportation: Empirical Study on Acceptance, Adoption Criteria and Economic and Ecological Impact on a Company Level
Authors: Hettesheimer Tim , Moll Cornelius , Jeßberger Kerstin , Franz Saskia
Published: April 2021

Small electric vehicles (SEVs) in commercial transportation have the potential to reduce traffic and its impacts, especially in urban areas. Companies, however, are still reluctant to implement SEVs. Therefore, the aim of this contribution is to shed light on the acceptance of motives for and obstacles to the use of SEVs in commercial transportation. Since the use of SEVs is often discussed in the context of innovative city logistics concepts, such as micro-hubs, our aim is also, to explore the acceptance, economic, and ecological potentials of SEVs in combination with micro-hubs. We use a multi-method approach and combine an online survey with in-depth interviews as well as a total cost of ownership (TCO) and CO2 calculation. Analyzing 350 responses to an online survey revealed that around half the companies surveyed have no knowledge of SEVs. This implies high unexploited potential, since 25% of these companies can imagine using them. In-depth interviews with logistics service providers (LSPs) or logistics departments from different sectors revealed that six of the 13 interviewed LSPs would be willing to implement this concept.
An Energy Efficiency Comparison of Electric Vehicles for Rural–Urban Logistics
Authors: Daberkow Andreas , Groß Stephan , Fritscher Christopher , Barth Stefan
Published: April 2021

In many small and medium-sized businesses in rural–urban areas, delivery services to and from customers, suppliers, and distributed locations are required regularly. In contrast to purely urban commercial centres, the distances here are larger. The aim of this paper is to identify opportunities for substituting combustion-engine logistics with lightweight electric commercial vehicles and the limitations thereto, describing an energy efficiency comparison and improvement process for a defined logistics application. Thus, the area of Heilbronn-Franconia and its transport conditions are presented as examples to compare the use case to standard driving cycles. Then the logistic requirements of Heilbronn UAS (University of Applied Science) locations and the available vehicles as well as further electric vehicle options are depicted. Options are discussed for the additional external payload in search of transport volume optimisation without increasing the vehicle floor space. To this end, simulation models are developed for the aerodynamic examination of the enlarged vehicle body and for determining energy consumption. Consumption and range calculation lead to vehicle concept recommendations. These research activities can contribute to the transformation of commercial electro mobility in rural and urban areas in many parts of Germany and Europe.
Small Electric Vehicles (SEV)—Impacts of an Increasing SEV Fleet on the Electric Load and Grid
Authors: Gorges Tobias , Weißmann Claudia , Bothor Sebastian
Published: April 2021

Heading towards climate neutrality, the electrification of the transport sector has significant impact on the electric grid infrastructure. Among other vehicles, the increasing number of new technologies, mobility offers, and services has an impact on the grid infrastructure. The purpose of this case study therefore is to examine and highlight the small electric vehicle (SEV) impact on the electric load and grid. A data-based analysis model with high charging demand in an energy network is developed that includes renewable energy production and a charging process of a whole SEV fleet during the daily electricity demand peak for the city of Stuttgart (Germany). Key figures are gathered and analysed from official statistics and open data sources. The resulting load increase due to the SEV development is determined and the impact on the electric grid in comparison to battery electric vehicles (BEV) is assessed for two district types. The case study shows that if SEVs replace BEVs, the effects on the grid peak load are considered significant. However, the implementation of a load management system may have an even higher influence on peak load reduction. Finally, recommendations for the future national and international development of SEV fleets are summarized.
Europe’s Legal Peripheries: Migration, Asylum and the European Labour Market
Authors: Federico Veronica , Baglioni Simone
Published: April 2021

The participation of foreign nationals in European labour markets is an effective tool that facilitates those migrants enjoying a more fulfilling life, while at the same time contributing to Europe’s wealth and economic and social development. However, many norms that regulate migration and labour migration undermine this spirit by limiting, both directly and indirectly, non-EU nationals’ access to European labour markets.
‘Fortress’ Switzerland? Challenges to Integrating Migrants, Refugees and Asylum-Seekers
Authors: Mexi Maria M. , Moreno Russi Paula , Guzman Eva Fernández
Published: April 2021

Switzerland is recognised as an immigration country. As in other European countries, awareness of the socio-economic costs of the non-integration of immigrants has led Swiss policy-makers to promote integration both as an individual duty (conditional on the requirements and individual responsibilities of a foreign person), as well as a policy priority for stakeholders at federal, cantonal, and communal levels. This pragmatic, yet in some cases restrictive, approach to integration has evolved gradually over time and has been strengthened by the divisive debates around foreigners that surrounded the 2014 initiative against mass immigration. In this context, we seek to provide a timely analysis of the evolving legal and policy framework that regulates the integration of migrants, refugees and asylum-seekers (MRAs) into the Swiss labour market and society. While we shed light on the development and changes pertaining to the relevant legislative and institutional framework, we also highlight key aspects that play an obstructing role to immigrants’ integration. Ultimately, we contend that not only certain legislative and administrative aspects, but also direct democratic instruments have provided important disabling barriers to migrants’ integration as they have not effectively managed to challenge ‘Fortress’ actualities and exclusionary trajectories of boundary construction.
Regulating Fortress Britain: Migrants, Refugees and Asylum Applicants in the British Labour Market
Authors: Calò Francesca , Baglioni Simone , Montgomery Tom , Biosca Olga
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this chapter is to provide a detailed overview of the UK legal and institutional factors at the macro-level that can be regarded as decisive for explaining the effective capacity of the country to integrate migrants, refugees and asylum seekers into the labour market. By doing so, we aim to better understand the conditions within which integration policies for migrants, refugees and asylum applicants (MRA) may take place. We begin by providing an insight into the social and cultural context of migration in the UK, firstly by looking at the history of migration and the social and political instabilities of the country. Furthermore, we investigate how legislation concerning migration and asylum has developed within the UK context across the decades and analyse how legislation has been translated by UK policymakers in recent years. We then examine the current constitutional organisation of the British state, highlighting the importance of case law in developing MRA integration. Following this, we outline key legislation concerning the integration of MRA in the British labour market. The chapter then provides a critical overview of the integration strategies (or the lack thereof) promoted at the national level, outlining the institutional challenges that affect integration. We then conclude by highlighting the possible impact that Brexit will have on an already ‘hostile environment’ for migration.
Between Numbers and Political Drivers: What Matters in Policy-Making
Authors: Maggini Nicola
Published: April 2021

This chapter aims to investigate whether (restrictive) policy measures on migration across seven European countries (the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Italy, Switzerland and the UK) are better explained by political factors, rather than the actual number of migrants/refugees/asylum seekers, their integration process or the effective European societies’ demographic and economic needs, within each national context. The analysis shows, indeed, that restrictive legislative and policy measures on immigration and integration issues seem to be not justified by the reality of immigration in the selected European countries. Conversely, these restrictive measures can be explained by some relevant political factors: prevalence of negative attitudes towards immigration among European citizens and salience of the immigration issue; electoral relevance of populist radical-right parties who mostly mobilized on immigration issues and significant diffusion of their authoritarian/traditionalist/nationalist positions within each country’s party system. These data confirm that citizens’ perceptions and party systems’ features are closely related phenomena, which influence one another and are all key factors that need to be considered to explain the law and policy-making of recent years on immigration issues.