Search Results (1,733)

This study explores the determinants of startup intention within the context of e-commerce platform-based startups in South Korea. We employ an extended technology acceptance model (TAM) that integrates individual, social, and entrepreneurial characteristics. A two-step analytical approach is applied, combining variable extraction through data mining and hypothesis testing using structural equation modeling. The results indicate that personal and social factors—such as entrepreneurial mindset and social influence—positively affect perceived usefulness, while job relevance and exposure to successful startup models enhance perceived ease of use. In contrast, security concerns and technological barriers negatively impact these relationships, posing critical obstacles to platform-based startups. This study extends the TAM framework to the platform-based startup context, offering theoretical contributions and proposing policy implications, including promoting digital literacy, developing entrepreneurial networks, and addressing security and regulatory issues. These insights offer a deeper understanding of how platform environments shape entrepreneurial behavior, providing practical guidance for startup founders, developers, and policymakers. Full article

This study takes four parallel axial-flow pumps (three in operation + one on standby) as the research object. Using a 1D–3D coupling method, it explores the flow characteristics of axial-flow pumps under different startup strategies during multi-pump parallel operation. Through comparative analysis, the following conclusions are drawn: when all three pumps start simultaneously, the internal pressure exceeds the rated head by 23.43%, and the reverse flow reaches 10.57% of the rated flow. When starting the pumps sequentially with 5 s intervals, the pressure can be reduced to 11.41% above the rated head, but the reverse flow increases to 13.87%. Further extending the startup interval to 15 s results in only minimal improvements compared to 5 s intervals: the maximum internal pressure and maximum reverse flow decrease by just 0.97% and 0.05%, respectively. When valve coordination is added to the 5 s sequential startup strategy (pre-opening the valve to 60% before pump startup), the pressure exceeds the rated head by 10.49%, and the reverse flow exceeds the rated flow by 6.04%. In this scenario, the high-pressure areas and high-turbulence zones on the blade back surfaces are significantly reduced, achieving optimal flow stability. Therefore, the parallel system startup should adopt a coordinated strategy combining moderate time intervals with 60% valve pre-opening. This approach can both avoid excessive pressure impact and effectively control reverse flow phenomena, providing an important basis for optimizing the startup of multi-pump parallel systems. Full article

Earthquakes can severely disrupt power distribution networks, causing extensive outages and disconnection from the transmission grid. This paper proposes a two-stage restoration method tailored for post-earthquake distribution systems. First, earthquake-induced damage is modeled using ground motion prediction equations (GMPEs) and fragility curves, and degraded network topologies are generated by Monte Carlo simulation. Then, a time-domain generator start-up model is developed as a mixed-integer linear program (MILP), incorporating cranking power and radial topology constraints. Further, a prioritized load recovery model is formulated as a mixed-integer second-order cone program (MISOCP), integrating power flow, voltage, and current constraints. Finally, case studies demonstrate the effectiveness and general applicability of the proposed method, confirming its capability to support resilient and adaptive distribution network restoration under various earthquake scenarios. Full article

An FR4-based X-band low phase noise oscillator loading an additional high-Q cavity resonator was designed in this study using substrate-integrated suspended line (SISL) technology. The additional resonator was coupled to an oscillator by the transmission line (coupling TL). The impact of the additional resonator on startup conditions, Q factor enhancement, and phase noise reduction was thoroughly investigated. Three oscillators loading an additional high-Q cavity resonator, loading an additional high-Q cavity resonator and performing partial dielectric extraction, and loading an original parallel feedback oscillator for comparison were presented. The experimental results showed that the proposed oscillator had a low phase noise of −131.79 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset from the carrier frequency of 10.088 GHz, and the FOM was −197.79 dBc/Hz. The phase noise was reduced by 1.66 dB through loading the additional resonator and further reduced by 1.87 dB through partially excising the substrate. To the best of our knowledge, the proposed oscillator showed the lowest phase noise and FOM compared with other all-FR4-based oscillators. The cost of fabrication was markedly reduced. The proposed oscillator also has the advantages of compact size and self-packaging properties. Full article

This research examines the shifting geography of small firm innovation in the U.S. by tracking the location of small business innovation research (SBIR) and small business technology transfer (STTR) awardees between 2010 and 2024. The SBIR and STTR are “seed fund” awards coordinated by the Small Business Administration (SBA) and funded through 11 U.S. federal agencies. Of particular interest is whether the number of individual SBA awards, awarded firms, and/or funding amounts are (1) becoming increasingly concentrated within regional innovation hubs and (2) exhibiting a shift toward or away from urban centers and other walkable, transit-accessible urban neighborhoods, particularly since 2020 and the COVID-19 pandemic. While the rise of remote work and pandemic-related fears may have reduced the desirability of urban spaces for both living and working, there remain significant benefits to spatial agglomeration that may be especially crucial for startups and other small firms in the knowledge- or information-intensive industries. The results suggest that innovative activity of smaller firms has indeed trended toward more centralized, denser, and walkable urban areas in recent years while also remaining fairly concentrated within major metropolitan innovation hubs. The pandemic appears to have resulted in a measurable, though potentially short-lived, cessation of these trends. Full article

This study examines the performance of two diffuser configurations—a trumpet-shaped and a semi-diagonal design—for application in micro gas turbine engines, aiming to assess their suitability in terms of efficiency and operational flexibility. Both diffusers were initially evaluated using steady-state CFD simulations with the k-omega SST turbulence model, followed by experimental testing on an actual engine across the start-up sequence from idle to 70% of nominal speed. Performance was mapped over four constant-speed lines for each configuration. Results showed that the trumpet-shaped diffuser offered a greater choke margin but suffered from increased aerodynamic losses, whereas the semi-diagonal diffuser demonstrated higher efficiency but required closer alignment with the target operating point. The k-omega SST model showed strong predictive accuracy, with 5.13% agreement across all instrumented parameters for all investigated speed lines. These findings suggest that while the trumpet diffuser provides better stability, the semi-diagonal design is more efficient when properly targeted. Future work will focus on extending the analysis to higher speed ranges and transient regimes using harmonic balance CFD methods and enhanced data acquisition techniques. Full article

In October 2024, a DANA (Isolated Depression at High Levels) triggered torrential rains across the Valencian Community, causing 227 deaths, severe infrastructure damage, and economic losses estimated at €17.8 billion. In this context of crisis, startups, despite having fewer resources and less experience than large corporations, played a significant role in crisis communication, shaping public perception and operational continuity. This study explores the communication strategies adopted by startups during and after the disaster, focusing on their activity on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook between October 2024 and January 2025. Using a mixed-methods approach, we conducted a quantitative analysis of digital discourse through the Fanpage Karma tool, assessing metrics such as engagement, reach, and posting frequency. Sentiment analysis was performed using GPT-4, an advanced natural language processing model, and in-depth interviews with startup representatives provided qualitative insights into reputational impacts. The findings reveal that startups which aligned their discourse with the social context, prioritizing transparency and emotional proximity, enhanced their visibility and credibility. These results underscore how effective crisis communication not only mitigates reputational risk but also strengthens the local entrepreneurial ecosystem through trust-building and social responsibility. Full article

Altitude Test Facility (ATF) compressor systems are widely used in aero-engine tests. These systems achieve the control of gas pressure and transport through complex operation processes. With advancements in the aviation industry, there is a growing demand for higher performance, greater safety, and more energy efficiency in digital ATF systems. Hybrid modeling is a technology that combines many methods and can meet these requirements. The Modular Dynamic System Greitzer (MDSG) compressor model, including mechanistic and data-driven modeling approaches, is combined with a neural network to obtain a BPNN-MDSG hybrid modeling method for the digital turbine system. The digital simulation is linked with the physical sensors of the ATF system to realize real-time simulation and monitoring. The steady and dynamic conditions of the actual system are simulated in virtual space. Compared with the actual results, the average error of steady mass flow is less than 3%, and the error of pressure is less than 1%. The average error of dynamic mass flow is less than 5%, and the error of pressure is less than 3%. The simulation and characteristic predictions are carried out in BPNN-MDSG virtual space. The anti-surge characteristics of the ATF system under start-up conditions are obtained. The full-condition anti-surge operation map of the system is obtained, which provides guidance for the actual operation of the ATF system. Full article

In recent years, the biomedical startup industry has flourished, and yet, it still faces challenges in adapting to changing market demands. Meanwhile, the widespread use of single-use medical devices generates significant waste, posing threats to environmental sustainability. Addressing this issue has become a critical challenge for humanity today. The study aimed to delve into the specific difficulties faced by Taiwanese biomedical entrepreneurs during the innovation and development of medical devices from a sustainability perspective and to explore solutions. This study collected first-hand experiences and insights from Taiwanese biomedical entrepreneurs through a literature review and expert questionnaires. It employed Interpretive Structural Modeling to analyze the development stages and interrelationships of biomedical device startups for building sustainable biomedical innovation. The Clinical Needs Assessment is revealed as the most influential factor, shaping Regulatory Feasibility Evaluation, Clinical Trial Execution, and Market Access Compliance. Our findings provide a structured problem-solving framework to assist biomedical startups in overcoming challenges while incorporating energy-saving and carbon reduction processes to achieve environment sustainability goals. The results of this study show that biomedical innovation practitioners should prioritize integrating sustainability considerations directly into the earliest stage of a Clinical Needs Assessment. Full article

The S100B protein, known for its role in the central and enteric nervous systems, has recently been identified in dietary sources such as milk, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables. Given its potential interaction with the gut microbiota, this study explores the relationship between dietary intake of S100B and microbiota biodiversity across different diets. A comprehensive study was conducted, estimating S100B concentrations in 13 dietary patterns recommended in different countries. This is the first study to provide a comparative estimation of S100B exposure from the diet and to explore its potential ecological and epidemiological relevance. The association between S100B levels and microbiota biodiversity was statistically analyzed, showing a direct correlation. Microbial diversity was assessed using the Shannon index, based on data extracted from studies reporting microbiota composition across dietary patterns. Additionally, the relative risk of Crohn’s disease was assessed in different populations to examine potential links between dietary patterns, S100B, and chronic disease prevention. A moderate positive correlation (R² = 0.537) was found between S100B concentration and Shannon index, suggesting that diets higher in S100B (e.g., Mediterranean diet) were associated with higher microbial alpha-diversity. Furthermore, Western-style diets, with the lowest S100B levels, exhibited a higher relative risk for Crohn’s disease (R² = 0.780). These findings highlight the potential role of dietary S100B content in modulating gut microbiota diversity and reducing chronic disease risk. Full article

This paper explores the effectiveness of an innovative FinTech risk-scoring model to predict the risk-appropriate return for short-term credit sales. The risk score serves to mitigate the information asymmetry between the seller of receivables (“Seller”) and the purchaser (“Funder”), at the same time providing an opportunity for the Funder to earn returns as well as to diversify its portfolio on a risk-appropriate basis. Selling receivables/credit to potential Funders at a risk-appropriate discount also helps Sellers to maintain their short-term financial liquidity and provide the necessary cash flow for operations and other immediate financial needs. We use 18,304 short-term credit-sale transactions between 23 April 2020 and 30 September 2022 from the private FinTech startup Crowdz and its Sustainability, Underwriting, Risk & Financial (SURF) risk-scoring system to analyze the risk/return relationship. The data includes risk scores for both Sellers of receivables (e.g., invoices) along with the Obligors (firms purchasing goods and services from the Seller) on those receivables and provides, as outputs, the mutual gains by the Sellers and the financial institutions or other investors funding the receivables (i.e., the Funders). Our analysis shows that the SURF Score is instrumental in mitigating the information asymmetry between the Sellers and the Funders and provides risk-appropriate periodic returns to the Funders across industries. A comparative analysis shows that the use of SURF technology generates higher risk-appropriate annualized internal rates of return (IRR) as compared to nonuse of the SURF Score risk-scoring system in these transactions. While Sellers and Funders enter into a win-win relationship (in the absence of a default), Sellers of credit instruments are not often scored based on the potential diversification by industry classification. Crowdz’s SURF technology does so and provides Funders with diversification opportunities through numerous invoices of differing amounts and SURF Scores in a wide range of industries. The analysis also shows that Sellers generally have lower financing stability as compared to the Obligors (payers on receivables), a fact captured in the SURF Scores. Full article

A battery charger for solid-state lithium battery packs was developed and implemented. The power stage used a phase-shifted full-bridge converter integrated with a current-doubler rectifier and synchronous rectification. Dual voltage and current control loops were employed to enable constant-voltage and constant-current charging modes. To improve the lifespan of the output filter capacitor, the current-doubler rectifier was adopted to effectively reduce output current ripple. During the initial start-up phase, as the charger transitions from constant-voltage to constant-current output mode, the use of proportional–integral control in the voltage and current loop error amplifiers may cause current overshoot during the step-rising phase, primarily due to the integral action. Therefore, this study incorporated fuzzy control, proportional control, and proportional–integral control strategies into the current-loop error amplifier. This approach effectively reduced the current overshoot during the step-rising phase, preventing the charger from mistakenly triggering the overcurrent protection mode. The analysis and design considerations of the proposed circuit topology and control loop are presented. Experimental results agree with theoretical predictions, thereby confirming the validity of the proposed approach. Full article

Dietary choices and patterns have enormous consequences along the lines of individual, community, and planetary health. Excess meat consumption has been linked to chronic disease risk, and at large scales, the underlying industries maintain a massive environmental footprint. For these reasons, public and planetary health experts are unified in emphasizing a whole or minimally processed plant-based diet. In response, the purveyors of ultra-processed foods have added “meat alternatives” to their ultra-processed commercial portfolios; multinational corporations have been joined by “start-ups” with new ultra-processed meat analogues. Here, in our Viewpoint, we revisit the 1990s food industry rhetoric and product innovation, a time in which multinational corporations pushed a great “low-fat transition.” We focus on the McLean Deluxe burger, a carrageenan-rich product introduced by the McDonald’s Corporation in 1991. Propelled by a marketing and media-driven fear of dietary fats, the lower-fat burger was presented with great fanfare. We reflect this history off the current “great protein transition,” a period once again rich in rhetoric, with similar displays of industry detachment from concerns about the health consequences of innovation. We scrutinize the safety of carrageenan and argue that the McLean burger should serve as a cautionary tale for planetary health and 21st century food innovation. Full article

This study proposes an improved super-twisting sliding mode (STSM) control method for a brushless doubly fed induction generator (BDFIG) used in standalone ship shaft power generation systems. Focusing on the problem of the low tracking accuracy of the power winding (PW) voltages caused by the parameter perturbation of BDFIG systems, a mismatched uncertain model of the BDFIG is constructed. Additionally, an improved STSM control method is proposed to address the power load variation and compensate for the mismatched uncertainty through virtual control technology. Based on the direct vector control of the control winding (CW), the proposed method ensured that the voltage amplitude error of the power winding could converge to the equilibrium point rather than the neighborhood. Finally, in the experimental investigation of the BDFIG-based ship shaft independent power system, the dynamic performance in the startup and power load changing conditions were analyzed. The experimental results show that the proposed improved STSM controller has a faster dynamic response and higher steady-state accuracy than the proportional integral control and the linear sliding mode control, with strong robustness to the mismatched uncertainties caused by parameter perturbations. Full article

Startups are often praised for their innovative power and dynamic work environments, but are also criticized for workplace cultures that perpetuate traditional masculine norms of competitiveness, workaholism, emotional resilience, and strength. This exploratory study examines the prevalence of Masculinity Contest Culture (MCC) in German startups and related gender dynamics. The Masculinity Contest Culture scale, which assesses masculine norms related to emotional resilience, physical superiority, workaholism, and aggressive competitiveness, was employed to collect data from 101 participants representing various startups. The results indicate an overall low prevalence of MCC, with slightly higher scores for strong commitment to work. Individuals from disparate gender and hierarchical status groups exhibited comparable ratings of the intensity of toxic masculinity. While the presence of female founders and supervisors did not affect MCC scores, male dominance within the work environment had a small but significant amplifying effect. Significant differences were observed based on the prevailing leadership style, indicating that a shared leadership approach is associated with the creation of a more inclusive and less toxic work environment. The results challenge commonly held assumptions about tech startups. In addition, the study highlights the need for further research into the impact of leadership dynamics on startup culture. Full article