A computationally efficient simulation method for optimizing front contacts of concentrator multijunction solar cells

In this work, a novel multidiode model is proposed for optimizing the front grid of multijunction solar cells operating under concentration conditions. The model allows for quickly exploring the maximum achievable efficiency under a wide range of operating conditions and design parameters such as the redirecting capability, period and width of the fingers, the light concentration, and the metal and emitter sheet resistivity. The proposed multidiode model shows to be consistent with experimental data and with more complex modeling approaches such as the simulation program with integrated circuit emphasis (SPICE) model

Dammann Gratings for Local Oscillator Beam Multiplexing

In submillimetre-wave heterodyne imaging systems, optical coupling provides the most efficient way of combining local oscillator power with the array of signals from the telescope. For systems limited to one local oscillator source an ideal optical-coupling scheme would produce an array of appropriately scaled images of the local oscillator feed at the detectors without any loss in power. One candidate for a beam multiplexing system is the combination of an interferometric couple with a type of binary phase grating known as a Dammann grating. In this paper, we consider in some detail the feasibility of such a system

Clinical applications of next generation sequencing in cancer: From panels, to exomes, to genomes

This article will review recent impact of massively parallel next-generation sequencing (NGS) in our understanding and treatment of cancer. While whole exome sequencing (WES) remains popular and effective as a method of genetically profiling different cancers, advances in sequencing technology has enabled an increasing number of whole-genome based studies. Clinically, NGS has been used or is being developed for genetic screening, diagnostics, and clinical assessment. Though challenges remain, clinicians are in the early stages of using genetic data to make treatment decisions for cancer patients. As the integration of NGS in the study and treatment of cancer continues to mature, we believe that the field of cancer genomics will need to move towards more complete 100% genome sequencing. Current technologies and methods are largely limited to coding regions of the genome. A number of recent studies have demonstrated that mutations in non-coding regions may have direct tumorigenic effects or lead to genetic instability. Non-coding regions represent an important frontier in cancer genomics

Direct current heating in superconductor-insulator-superconductor tunnel devices for THz mixing applications

DC heating effects in superconductor-insulator-superconductor (SIS) tunnel junctions are studied by comparing junctions sandwiched between niobium or aluminum layers. With niobium a temperature rise of several Kelvin is observed, which is reduced by an order of magnitude by using aluminum. A simple model satisfactorily explains this observation and predicts a 30% increase in the subgap current due to the elevated temperature. At the operating voltage for heterodyne mixing the receiver noise temperature increases by only 2%. (C) 1996 American Institute of Physics