A description of within-family resource exchange networks in a Malawian village

In this paper we explore patterns of economic transfers between adults within household and family networks in a village in Malawi’s Rumphi district, using data from the 2006 round of the Malawi Longitudinal Study of Families and Health. We fit Exponential-family Random Graph Models (ERGMs) to assess individual, relational, and higher-order network effects. The network effects of cyclic giving, reciprocity, and in-degree and out-degree distribution suggest a network with a tendency away from the formation of hierarchies or "hubs." Effects of age, sex, working status, education, health status, and kinship relation are also considered.Malawi, Malawi Longitudinal Study of Families and Health, networks, resource exchange, social network

Why do demand responsive transport systems fail?

In developed countries, Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) (loosely termed 'paratransit' in US parlance) emerged in the 1970s to serve the specialist niche market of people with mobility difficulties. DRT systems are starting become a mainstream public transport mode and this paper examines mainstream public transport DRT schemes from around the world that have failed, in order to identify the reasons for failure, and draw lessons to help prevent similar outcomes occurring. Research for the Intermode study developed detailed cases of 72 DRT projects. A number of key failed cases are reported together with a note of the lessons that each provides. This is followed by a generic analysis of failure factors based on a marketing approach. It is concluded that DRT projects are often not realistically costed or designed with a full understanding of the market they are to serve. There is a very dangerous temptation to offer too flexible a service and to include costly technological systems, when they may not be needed. An incremental approach, if possible, appears sensible. DRT also requires more marketing effort and skills than is traditional in conventional bus operations, but above all, it requires new skills in working in partnership. It is concluded that the latter area is where the root of DRT failure is often to be found

Luminescence spectroscopy of cdte/cds based photovoltaic devices and associated materials

This thesis contains primarily a study of CdTe/CdS heterojunction solar cells^ chiefly using photoluminescence spectroscopy. These solar cells show a good potential for commercial power generation in the near Aiture and are of interest to several major companies. A vital but little understood step in the manufacturing process is: annealing the cells in the presence of chlorine prior to back contact application. Studies are performed on a selection of thin film CdTe/CdS cells subjected to CdCl(_2) anneals of different duration. A chemical bevel etch was used to study the spectra at different depths into the sample and laser intensity arid sarhple temperature variations to identify the mechanisms behind the observed photoluminescence peaks. Evidence was found for the CdCl(_2) anneal promoting sulphur diffusion and subsequent grain boundary passivation in the CdTe, leading to increased minority carrier lifetimes and device efficiencies Attempts to obtain electroluminescence from the CdTe/CdS solar cells were madei By using current pulses electroluminescence was obtained in the 780-850nm range with discernible spectral features. Photoluminescence (PL) studies were also performed on a single crystal of CdTe grown to an unprecedented size of approx. 5 cm diameter at Durham university by a multi-tube seeded vapour method of crystal growth. Much higher resolution spectra were: obtained for this than for the solar cells. Several peaks were identified arid the mechanisms responsible were theorised. By taking slices of the crystal boule the PL spectra at different points-throughout the bulk of the crystal were determined. A series of high quality ion-implanted CdTe crystals were also studied! by intensity and temperature dependent PL in order to obtain a better understanding of the effects of known concentrations of known impurities on the PL spectra of CdTe. Specific PL features associated with certain dopants were observed

Interview with Big Bear Grocery Store Manager, Mark Potter

Luette Frost recounts her interview with Mark Potter.https://digital.kenyon.edu/elfs_interviews/1058/thumbnail.jp

‘A productive and happy collaboration’: maximising impact through project design

This case study describes a highly collaborative project created to develop an online self-assessment tool that offers students the opportunity to plan their preparedness to enter the work place named the Preparation for Placement Assessment Tool. The aim of the project was to develop an artefact that aidsall students to think about and prepare for placements, and more broadly to be work-ready. It also aims to help disabled students to identify and manage their individual needs. Working in collaboration with students is offered as an effective strategy for improving project outcomes and managing the tensions for academics of balancing research, teaching, learning and scholarly activities.This paper discusses the project background, design and delivery, which includes the engagement of a diverse mix of students, and the practice research methodologies used. Discussion focuses on the project’s impact, particularly on the students involved. Four key factors: student power, methodology, the use of funding and slow burn are identified as significant for success