Clear Path Research Articles

Improved sustainability of solar panels by improving stability of amorphous silicon solar cells

As the world grapples with global warming, it becomes imperative to carefully examine the sustainable energy technology choices. Solar is the fastest growing clean energy source but today it contributes little to the electricity generated, so future installations will dwarf the existing installed base. There is a factor of 2–4 decrease in the energy payback time from the dominant crystalline silicon technology to thin film technologies. Essential criteria like use of abundant materials and simple but mature production technology point to amorphous silicon (a-Si) technology. Here we delve into the primary issue impeding adoption of a-Si technology—the Staebler Wronski Effect (SWE), that generates metastable, light induced defects which reduce the performance of a-Si based solar cells. We demonstrate that a simple change leads to a significant reduction in SWE power loss and define a clear path to elimination of SWE, allowing the technology to be widely adopted.

Administration strategy of energy management in smart grid: system view and optimization path

Power generation and transmission infrastructure is vulnerable to the interaction of various Distributed Generations (DG), which leads to the imbalance of power system operation, frequent voltage drops or spikes, and even power outages. This phenomenon not only wastes energy, but also affects grid security. The main reason is a delayed feedback of circuit failure and load changes, and the optimization of energy management system and path is an effective way to solve the above problems. In this paper, a method of multi-objective optimization based on ANFIS algorithm is proposed which can help to improve the demand response, energy storage and management of smart power grid, reduce the volatility of DGs, reducing electricity costs and improving energy efficiency. Firstly, based on the ANFIS algorithm, the distributed power generation control mode, inverter control, real-time electricity price calculation method, energy transfer and storage scheme are improved, and the optimization path of the energy management system is defined. Secondly, the advantages of ANFIS algorithm in response speed and running stability are verified by comparing with other algorithms. Finally, a distributed energy microgrid is constructed for simulation verification. The results show that :(1) ANFIS optimization algorithm has good adaptability in smart grid, and has advantages in large amount of data processing and information transmission; (2) The verification model based on ANFIS has strong elasticity and efficient response speed. The research results will help solve various problems in the smart grid, including establishing a clear energy management system path, maintaining the stable operation of the power system, providing users with more reasonable power plans and the lowest cost of electricity.

A clear path to endemic: An opportunity to increase healthcare professionals’ system

A clear path to endemic: An opportunity to increase healthcare professionals’ system

Hakikat Kurikulum dalam Perspektif Filsafat Pendidikan Islam

To achieve the goals of religious education (Islamic education), a curriculum is needed that is in accordance with the goals of Islamic education, age level, development of child psychologists and student skills. In this case the author uses a qualitative research method, which leads to literature study, literature study. Manhaj as a clear path that is passed by educators or training teachers with the people they train to develop their knowledge, skills, and attitudes as well as values, developing a curriculum, must be in accordance with things that can realize the educational goals that have been set. The scope of Islamic education includes everything related to Islamic education,

Scaling comb-driven resonator-based DWDM silicon photonic links to multi-Tb/s in the multi-FSR regime

The use of chip-based micro-resonator Kerr frequency combs in conjunction with dense wavelength-division multiplexing (DWDM) enables massively parallel intensity-modulated direct-detection data transmission with low energy consumption. Resonator-based modulators and filters used in such systems can limit the number of usable wavelength channels due to practical constraints on the maximum achievable free spectral range (FSR). In this work, we introduce the design of multi-Tb/s comb-driven resonator-based silicon photonic links by leveraging the multi-FSR regime. We demonstrate the viability of the link architecture with yield estimates that are supported by extensive wafer-scale measurements of 704 micro-resonators fabricated in a commercial complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor foundry. We show that a 2.80 Tb/s link is realizable with a ≥6σ yield (∼99.999%), and that aggregate bandwidths of 3.76 Tb/s and 4.72 Tb/s are possible if yield targets are relaxed (3σ and 1σ, respectively). All designs represent a 1.94−3.28× boost to aggregate link bandwidth while maintaining BER≤10−10 performance, with a theoretical bandwidth of 10.51 Tb/s being possible for sufficiently robust resonators. We use high-speed BER measurements to inform co-optimization of data rate and aggressor spacing (λag), limiting any additional loss-based power penalties to off-resonance insertion loss (IL) and routing loss. This work demonstrates that, through the multi-FSR regime, there is a clear path toward Kerr comb-driven ultra-broadband, high bandwidth silicon photonic links that can support next-generation data centers and high-performance computers.

Modelling Based Approaches to Support Generic Drug Regulatory Submissions-Practical Considerations and Case Studies.

Model informed drug development (MiDD) is useful to predict in vivo exposure of drugs during various stages of the drug development process. This approach employs a variety of quantitative tools to assess the risks during the drug development process. One important tool in the MiDD tool kit is the Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modelling (PBPK). This tool is extensively used to reduce the development cost and to accelerate the access of medicines to the patients. In this work, we provide an overview of PBPK modelling approaches in the generic drug development process, with a special emphasis on the bio-waiver applications. We describe herein approaches and common pitfalls while submitting model based justifications as a response to the regulatory deficiencies during the generic drug development process. With some in-house case studies, we have attempted to provide a clear path for PBPK model based justifications for bio-waivers. With this review, the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application of modelling and simulation tools for generic drug product development could be potentially reduced.

Systematic literature and modeling review of Personal Branding

In recent years, Personal Branding is gaining more and more attention as a concept in academica, within the fields of management and business studies. Even-though having more than 100 academic studies published on the phenomenon to this date, connecting the concept with areas like management, psychology, communication, entrepreneurship and others, it lacks fundamentals, due to factors such as, diversity of definitions and finding its place within academia. Being a fragmented research area, it is crucial to get an understanding of its origins and draw a clear path of its heterogeneous nature in order to create a base for advancement of research both in theoretical and empirical aspects. This paper aims to review the origins and contemporary literature and show directions of an integrated model of standardization of the effect of Personal Branding on Business Development. By conducting a systematic literature review, the paper 1) identifies key characteristics of constructs, 2) compares the existing theoretical models and their findings, and 3) analyzes concepts in order to propose a widely usable definition of Personal Branding. The summary of the literature review results in a proposed outline of models, trends, drivers, outcomes, and processes as well, based on the findings of other reviewed studies. The review keeps an important highlight on not only scientific, but real life practical usability as well. Finally, the paper outlines the further touchpoints of research that can be discussed in order to understand the phenomenon of Personal Branding as a determinative factor within the success metrics of business development.

On-Chip Hong–Ou–Mandel Interference from Separate Quantum Dot Emitters in an Integrated Circuit

Scalable quantum photonic technologies require the low-loss integration of many identical single-photon sources with photonic circuitry on a chip. Relatively complex quantum photonic circuits have already been demonstrated; however, sources used so far relied on parametric down-conversion which has a probabilistic nature that intrinsically limits its efficiency and scalability. Quantum emitter-based single-photon sources are free of this limitation, but frequency matching of multiple emitters within a single circuit remains challenging. In this work, we demonstrate a key component in this regard in the form of a fully monolithic GaAs circuit combining two frequency-matched quantum dot single-photon sources interconnected with a low-loss on-chip beamsplitter connected via single-mode ridge waveguides. This device enabled us to perform a two-photon interference experiment on-chip with a visibility reaching 66%. Our device could be further scaled up, providing a clear path to increasing the complexity of quantum circuits toward fully scalable integrated quantum technologies.

‘Refugee footballers’: A socioecological exploration of forced migrants in the Italian and German elite football system

Against the background of the recent European ‘refugee crisis’ and its long-term consequences, this article investigates the research question ‘how do footballers with a refugee background experience the process of accessing top-level football?’, using ethnographic material and interviews with competitive footballers with a refugee background in Italy and Germany from two studies. The material was examined using qualitative content analysis and interpreted through the ecological systems theory. The results show that inclusion to professional football is complex for refugee footballers who are faced with the additional hurdles and consequences of a forced migration. Moreover, refugees build their networks within the process of resettlement, without a clear path for inclusion to elite football. Those who ‘make it’ have relied on key enablers within their microsystem and on mesosystemic interactions, further emphasizing the importance of networks for professional development. In contrast, exosystemic and macrosystemic factors further hinder the possibility of a sport career in football, on top of the existing difficulties of a forced migration. The process of seeking inclusion in competitive football however has been identified as a positive element that can provide direction in resettlement and opportunities for socialisation.

Inconsistent CT NSCLC radiomics associated with feature selection methods, predictive models and related factors

Objective. To investigate potential uncertainties in CT-based non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) radiomics associated with feature selection methods, predictive models, and their related factors. Approach. CT images from 496 pre-treatment NSCLC patients were retrospectively retrieved from a GE CT scanner. The original patient cohort (100%) was sampled to generate 25%, 50%, and 75% sub-cohorts to investigate potential impact of cohort size. Radiomic features were extracted from the lung nodule using IBEX. Five feature selection methods (analysis of variance, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator, mutual information, minimum redundancy-maximum relevance, Relief) and seven predictive models (DT–decision tree, RF–random forest, LR–logistic regression, SVC–support vector classifier, KNN–k-nearest neighbor, GB–gradient boost, NB–Naïve-Bayesian) were included for the analysis. Cohort size and cohort composition (i.e. same sized cohorts with partially different patients) were investigated as factors related to feature selection methods. The number of input features and model validation methods (2-, 5-, and 10-fold cross-validation) were investigated for predictive models. Using a two-year survival endpoint, AUC values were calculated for the various combinations. Main results. Features ranked by different feature selection methods are not consistent and dependent on cohort size, even for the same methods. Two methods, Relief and LASSO, select 17 and 14 features from 25 common features to all cohort sizes, respectively, while other 3 feature selection methods have <10 features common to all cohort sizes. Feature rankings also highly depend on minor differences in cohort composition. AUCs for the 2100 tested combinations vary from 0.427 to 0.973. Among them, only 16 combinations achieve an AUC > 0.65. There is no clear path to reliable CT NSCLC radiomics. Significance. The use of different feature selection methods and predictive models can generate inconsistent results. This should be further investigated to improve the reliability of radiomic studies.

Research on the Influencing Factors of Construction Enterprises’ Digital Transformation Based on DEMATEL-TAISM

The ongoing shift from an industrial to a digital economy is a significant global phenomenon. However, the driving forces behind and the tactical approach to digital transformation are still unclear to the construction industry, thereby posing challenges for construction enterprises seeking to undergo digital transformation. Therefore, this paper conducted an investigation on the subject, including the following: (1) the 17 influencing factors in the complex system of digital transformation of construction enterprises were screened and summarized from four perspectives: Environment, Technology, Organisation, and Resources. The attributes of the influencing factors were analyzed using the Decision-Making Experimentation and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method, and the key factors were identified. (2) The Total Adversarial Interpretive Structure Model (TAISM) method was used to develop a multi-perspective adversarial recursive structure model with integrated impact values, which reflected the interrelationships between the influencing factors and the hierarchical structure. (3) Based on the analysis of the influencing factors of digital transformation of construction enterprises, the clear path mechanisms were elucidated and suggested measures from the internal and external perspectives of government and construction firms were recommended. The results can offer theoretical backing and serve as a stepping stone for the digital transformation of the construction industry.

The determination of physical dimensions of a hypersonic three-stage compression system considering panel vibration effects

The panel vibration of air intake system that excitated by fluid-structural interaction, engine thrust variation and noise has decisive influences on the performance of an air-breathing hypersonic vehicle. The design of such type of intake system should contain the determination of configurational parameters and physical dimensions by considering both flow and structural vibrations, and a clear design path is still absent. In this paper, an intake system with three-stage external compression ramps is designed under Mach number of 6 and flight altitude of 24 km, and the configurational parameters are determined based on the shock-on-lip criterion, Oswatitsch criterion and viscous effects modification. The mode vibration characteristics of external compression ramps with panel thicknesses of 0.002 to 0.03 m are analyzed, and appropriate natural frequencies are obtained by constraint conditions of fixed four side boundaries with an additional and more realistic constraint of strengthened internal boundary. The flow field of the intake system with forced panel vibrations of compression ramps is simulated, and the effects of vibration amplitude of 0 to 0.11 m and frequency of 10 to 250 Hz on the intake performance, i.e., total pressure recovery coefficient and mass flow coefficient are clarified. The vibration effects of hypersonic flow on the compression ramp structure and intake performance are studied by fluid-structural coupling simulations. Finally, the available physical dimensions of external compression ramps are determined and a design path of intake system is developed by considering both the structural and intake performance.

Composition of Anopheles species and bionomic characteristics over the peak malaria transmission season in Bandarban, Bangladesh

BackgroundJoint efforts by government and non-government organizations have helped to reduce malaria in Bangladesh and set the country on a clear path to eventual malaria elimination. However, achieving that goal would be challenging without a comprehensive understanding of vector bionomics.MethodsTargeted capturing of Anopheles mosquitoes over a rainy season, utilizing specific sampling methods, including human landing catches (HLCs), CDC-light traps (CDC-LTs), and pyrethrum spray catches (PSCs) were aimed to characterize entomological drivers of transmission in four sites of Bandarban, Bangladesh.ResultsMolecular characterization of a subset of 4637 mosquitoes has demonstrated the presence of at least 17 species whose capture rates were representative of the rainy season. Species compositions and bionomic traits did not vary between sites with Anopheles maculatus having the highest landing rate by HLCs and Anopheles vagus having the highest capture rate with CDC-LTs. Interestingly, Anopheles species compositions and capture rates varied significantly (p < 0.05) for An. vagus, between HLCs and its often-used proxy—CDC-LTs- suggesting impacts on downstream analysis. CDC-LTs capture rates demonstrated differing compositions with indoor and outdoor biting rates. For example, Anopheles nigerrimus and Anopheles nivipes were more endophagic by HLCs and more exophagic by CDC-LTs. The use of a cow-baited CDC-LT also demonstrated significantly different results when compared to a human-baited CDC-LT considering the high degree of anthropophily in these species. The exception to both zoophily and indoor resting was An. vagus, which demonstrated both anthropophily and high resting rates indoors—pointing to this species being a possible primary vector at this site.ConclusionA diverse Anopheles fauna in Bandarban has been confirmed through molecular methods, highlighting the potential impact of sampling techniques. Given the complexity of the local ecosystem, a better understanding of mosquito behaviour and ecology is required to achieve the goal of malaria elimination in Bangladesh.

All hat and no cattle: How house bill 2926 paves the way for progress in the reinstatement of parental rights, but falls short of providing parents with an accessible resource

AbstractTexas' foster care system is overpopulated, underfunded, and doing a grave disservice to the children in its care. Specifically, the foster care system is violating the constitutional rights of children regarding how they must be taken care of while in the State's custody. Parents whose custodial rights were involuntarily terminated now have a clear path for petitioning to regain their rights thanks to Texas House Bill 2926. Much of House Bill 2926's value is lost in the legalese used to write it, which is the problem my proposed solution, The 2926 Project, aims to remedy.

Evaluation and Implementation of Traffic Clearance for Emergency Applications

In this project, the ESP8266 microcontroller and LEDs are utilized to create a system that effectively controls traffic flow during emergency situations. Two modules, an emergency vehicle module, and a traffic module, communicate with a server. The server receives signals from the emergency vehicle and triggers the corresponding traffic lights to turn green and yellow in the direction of the vehicle. Simultaneously, the traffic lights in other directions turn red and yellow, providing a clear path for the emergency vehicle. To enhance safety and awareness, a mobile application is developed. Users between the emergency vehicle and the traffic signal can install the app, which alerts them of the approaching vehicle. Real-time updates, sound alerts, and vibrations are provided to ensure the public is aware and can take appropriate actions. An additional app is designed for the emergency vehicle driver, allowing manual control over traffic signals when they are positioned too closely together. This ensures the vehicle can navigate intersections without hindrance. By combining the server, mobile apps, and ESP8266 microcontroller, this project offers a comprehensive solution to improve emergency vehicle navigation in urban areas. It optimizes traffic flow, enhances public safety, and provides additional control for emergency vehicle drivers. The goal is to provide an efficient and accessible solution that can be implemented in various urban settings.

A multidisciplinary approach to decarbonisation pathways for commercial stranded assets in the UK

To meet 2050 net zero targets, 65 per cent of existing commercial buildings will need to be electrified by 2030. Legislation and performance targets at present remain conflicting with no one clear path being promoted. The paper uses an ‘in-flight’ example project to considers how retrofit projects could be approached from the outset, reflecting on contractual models, performance targets, societal and sustainability challenges around adapting our existing building stock. The purpose of the paper is to assist investors, insurers, owners, occupiers and advisers in understanding the potential decarbonisation pathways for their assets and to clarify how a project should be approached to benefit the asset and environment in the short and long term. Interdependencies are discussed to highlight the multidisciplinary nature of retrofit and how a holistic and direct approach from the outset is likely to achieve best outcomes where the building’s envelope, heating and ventilation are designed to work in tandem with each other.

APPLICATION AND IMPACT OF SPACE MATRIX APPROACH IN ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE

Research brings a contemporary approach of management and aiming for proper performativity and longevity. Through the application of the SPACE approach, it will create a novelty impact on Kosovo organizations, bringing a completely clear and meaningful path and practice. The research presents the possibility of applying the approach to bring to the surface the differences in performance between those traditional approaches. The realization of this research has used mixed methodologies, a research design through the correlation field and a series of analyzes and other tests emphasizing the relation and connection that can exist between the approach and the Kosovo organizations to influence positively in the performance. The research reveals a high probability of possibility for applying the approach towards Kosovo organizations which through the application embraced a new and very competitive performance in the industry. The relationship between the approach and organizations turns out to be very positive expressed in correlative values that will help managers to implement a new scientific and guidance on how to go straightly to strategic performance. The approach will also create for managers an important position in the industry through performance, ensuring the path of sustainability and long-term.

The Impact of Words: Multisource Feedback Provides Students With a Deeper Understanding and Reflection on Goals of Care Discussions.

Background: Physician communication during goals of care (GOC) discussions impact experiences for patients and families at end-of-life (EOL). Simulation allows training in a safe environment where feedback from simulated patients (SP), clinicians, and self-reflection can be incorporated. Objectives: To determine if multisource feedback from SP scenarios enriches feedback provided to trainees. Design: Fourth-medical students participated in two SP GOC discussions during an advanced care planning (ACP) curriculum. Students received feedback from SPs and faculty and completed a video review with self-reflection. Setting and Subjects: Forty-seven fourth-year medical students at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine participated in the curriculum from 2019-2021. Measurements: An inductive thematic analysis of the narrative data was performed examining all sources of feedback from the SP sessions. Results: Six themes emerged from the feedback: the warning shot: words to say and why it helps; acknowledging emotion: verbal vs non-verbal responses; organization: necessity of a clear path; body language: adding to and distracting from the conversation; terminology to avoid: what jargon encompasses and how it impacts patients; and silence: perceived importance by everyone. SP feedback focused on the personal emotional impact of a student's word choice and body language. Faculty feedback focused on specific learning points through examples from the conversation and expanded to hypothetical scenarios. Student self-reflection after video review allowed students to see challenges that they did not notice while immersed in the encounter. Conclusion: Multisource feedback from simulated GOC discussions provides unique insights for students to guide their development in leading difficult conversations.

Exploring the impact of incentive policy on the development of prefabricated buildings: a scenario-based system dynamics model

PurposeThe development of prefabricated buildings has become one of the primary solutions to transform the traditional construction industry around the world. Incentive policy is one of the important driving factors for the development of prefabricated building. The policy system in the field of prefabricated buildings needs to be improved urgently. However, there is still a dearth of research on how incentive policies exert impact on the development of prefabricated buildings. This paper aims to reveal the impact mechanisms of different types of policies on the development system of prefabricated buildings.Design/methodology/approachThis study categorizes prefabricated building policies, constructs a system dynamics model of prefabricated building policies and conducts scenario simulations to examine the impact and sensitivity of different types of policies on the development system of prefabricated buildings.FindingsThe results show that compulsory policies play a greater role in the early stage of prefabricated building development and need to be withdrawn at the right time. Preferential and encouraging policies play an incentive role in the middle and later stages of prefabricated building development. Encouraging policies predominate in the later stage of prefabricated building development. Based on the research results, policy recommendations for prefabricated building development are put forward respectively from the government, developers and consumers.Originality/valueThe research results are expected to make up for the lack of clear policies paths in existing research and provide theoretical references for the formulation and optimization of future policies.

Review of Atom Chips for Absolute Gravity Sensors

As a powerful tool in scientific research and industrial technologies, the cold atom absolute gravity sensor (CAGS) based on cold atom interferometry has been proven to be the most promising new generation high-precision absolute gravity sensor. However, large size, heavy weight, and high–power consumption are still the main restriction factors of CAGS being applied for practical applications on mobile platforms. Combined with cold atom chips, it is possible to drastically reduce the complexity, weight, and size of CAGS. In this review, we started from the basic theory of atom chips to chart a clear development path to related technologies. Several related technologies including micro-magnetic traps, micro magneto–optical traps, material selection, fabrication, and packaging methods have been discussed. This review gives an overview of the current developments in a variety of cold atom chips, and some actual CAGS systems based on atom chips are also discussed. We summarize by listing some of the challenges and possible directions for further development in this area.