Poor Integration Research Articles

Artificial Intelligence in Diagnosis and Management of Nail Disorders: A Narrative Review.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing healthcare by enabling systems to perform tasks traditionally requiring human intelligence. In healthcare, AI encompasses various subfields, including machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, and expert systems. In the specific domain of onychology, AI presents a promising avenue for diagnosing nail disorders, analyzing intricate patterns, and improving diagnostic accuracy. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current applications of AI in onychology, focusing on its role in diagnosing onychomycosis, subungual melanoma, nail psoriasis, nail fold capillaroscopy, and nail involvement in systemic diseases. A literature review on AI in nail disorders was conducted via PubMed and Google Scholar, yielding relevant studies. AI algorithms, particularly deep convolutional neural networks (CNNs), have demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity in interpreting nail images, aiding differential diagnosis as well as enhancing the efficiency of diagnostic processes in a busy clinical setting. In studies evaluating onychomycosis, AI has shown the ability to distinguish between normal nails, fungal infections, and other differentials, including nail psoriasis, with a high accuracy. AI systems have proven effective in identifying subungual melanoma. For nail psoriasis, AI has been used to automate the scoring of disease severity, reducing the time and effort required. AI applications in nail fold capillaroscopy have aided the analysis of diagnosis and prognosis of connective tissue diseases. AI applications have also been extended to recognize nail manifestations of systemic diseases, by analyzing changes in nail morphology and coloration. AI also facilitates the management of nail disorders by offering tools for personalized treatment planning, remote care, treatment monitoring, and patient education. Despite these advancements, challenges such as data scarcity, image heterogeneity, interpretability issues, regulatory compliance, and poor workflow integration hinder the seamless adoption of AI in onychology practice. Ongoing research and collaboration between AI developers and nail experts is crucial to realize the full potential of AI in improving patient outcomes in onychology.

DESAFIOS DA ASSISTÊNCIA FARMACÊUTICA NO SISTEMA ÚNICO DE SAÚDE (SUS) SOB O OLHAR DA ATENÇÃO PRIMÁRIA À SAÚDE

Pharmaceutical assistance within the Unified Health System (SUS) plays a central role in ensuring access to essential medicines and the effectiveness of public health actions, particularly in Primary Health Care (PHC), which serves as the main gateway to the system. This study aimed to investigate the challenges faced by pharmaceutical assistance in the SUS, with a focus on PHC, analyzing issues such as failures in distribution logistics, insufficient technical training of professionals, and poor integration between levels of care and information systems. Additionally, it addressed problems related to low patient adherence to treatment and the irrational use of medicines, factors that undermine the effectiveness of comprehensive care. The research was based on an in-depth literature review and employed qualitative methods to explore the complexity of pharmaceutical assistance management and the obstacles encountered in daily practice. Based on the identification of these challenges, recommendations were proposed for the formulation of more effective public policies, improvements in medication management, and enhanced training for health professionals. The study also highlights strategies to promote the rational use of medicines and optimize the quality of pharmaceutical care in PHC. It is expected that the findings will contribute to the improvement of pharmaceutical assistance within the SUS, ultimately strengthening the healthcare system as a whole.

Extracting Housing and Food Insecurity Information From Clinical Notes Using cTAKES.

To assess the utility and challenges of using natural language processing (NLP) in electronic health records (EHRs) to ascertain health-related social needs (HRSNs) among older adults. We extracted HRSN information using the NLP system Clinical Text Analysis and Knowledge Extraction System (cTAKES), combined with Concept Unique Identifiers and Systematized Nomenclature for Medicine codes. We validated cTAKES performance, via manual chart review, on two HRSNs: food insecurity, which was included in the healthcare system's HRSN screening tool, and housing insecurity, which was not. De-identified EHRs in a large California healthcare system (January 2013 through October 2022) from 119,127 patients aged 55+ in primary and emergency care settings (n = 1,385,259 clinical notes). Although cTAKES had a moderate positive predictive value (77.5%) for housing insecurity, housing challenges among older adults frequently did not align with the concepts the algorithm recognized. cTAKES performed poorly for food insecurity (positive predictive value: 18.5%) because this NLP system incorrectly flagged structured fields from the screening tool. Unstandardized terminology and poor integration of HRSN screeners in EHR remain important barriers to identifying older adults' food and housing insecurity using cTAKES.

Plasma proteomic biomarkers as mediators or moderators for the association between poor cardiovascular health and white matter microstructural integrity: The UK Biobank study.

The plasma proteome's mediating or moderating roles in the association between poor cardiovascular health (CVH) and brain white matter (WM) microstructural integrity are largely unknown. Data from 3953 UK Biobank participants were used (40-70 years, 2006-2010), with a neuroimaging visit between 2014 and 2021. Poor CVH was determined using Life's Essential 8 (LE8) and reversing standardized z-scores (LE8z _rev). The plasma proteome was examined as a potential mediator or moderator of LE8z _rev's effects on quantitative diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) metrics. LE8z_rev was significantly associated with deteriorated WM microstructural integrity, as reflected by lower tract-averaged fractional anisotropy (dMRI-FAmean), (β±standared error (SE): -0.00152±0.0003, p<0.001) and higher tract-averaged orientation dispersion (dMRI-ODmean), (β±SE:+0.00081±0.00017, p<0.001). Ten strongly mediating plasma proteins of 1463 were identified, with leptin as the principal driver. Poor CVH is linked to poor WM microstructural integrity measures (lower FAmean and higher ODmean), mostly mediated through leptin. Up to 3953 UK Biobank participants were selected for this study. Poor cardiovascular health (CVH) was determined using Life's Essential 8. The plasma proteome was examined as a potential mediator or moderator of poor CVH's effect on dMRI metrics. Ten plasma proteins were identified with strong mediating effects, with leptin being the principal driver.

Field evaluation of Yorkool ®, a long-lasting insecticidal net after 12 months of use in Seme, Kisumu County, Kenya

Background: Physical integrity and insecticidal efficacy of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLINs) is influenced by the handling practices during use. This was an evaluation of Yorkool® pyrethroid-based LLINs after 12 months of use to determine the washing and drying practices, physical conditions and bio-efficacy. Methods: This was a cross-sectional household survey in an area where rectangular Yorkool® a pyrethroid LLINs were distributed during national mass net distribution campaign in 2021. Questionnaires were used for data collection and bioassay tests were done from thirty randomly selected nets. Results: 262 household heads were interviewed with their mean age being 46.9 years (SD 17.4 years) and level of education was mainly primary (70.2%). Most households (71.8%) had 1 to 2 sleeping spaces. The households had a total 468 LLINs with 95.1% having been washed at least once. About three-quarters (74.4%) of the LLINs had been washed using local bar soap, with 99.6 % having not been scrubbed on hard surface during washing and 72.1% were dried under a shade. Those evaluated for physical integrity and had at least one hole made up 77.8% of the nets and 57.2% were too torn and requiring replacement. Bio-efficacy test recorded a mean KD of 92% after 1 hour, and mean mortality of 86% after 24 hours. The nets that passed the WHO efficacy cut off for mortality (≥80%) after 24 hours were 83.3% and 70% passed the KD (≥95%) cut off after 1 hour. Conclusions: While more than a half of the Yorkool® LLINs needed replacement due to poor physical integrity after one year of use in the households, the bio-efficacy of the LLINs was relatively high with the mortality on vectors meeting the WHO threshold

Experimental determination of the mechanical and hydrolytic properties of chitosan/rice husk ash composite membranes

Chitosan-based membranes are promising alternatives to synthetic membranes in a number of specialized use cases, including water purification and electrochemical devices. In application, excessive swelling when hydrated can lead to poor mechanical integrity, necessitating modifications to the polymer to counter this effect. Embedding inorganic fillers within an organic polymer matrix is one method of combining excellent mechanical stability with good performance. This study investigated the effect of rice husk ash (RHA) on the mechanical and hydrolytic properties of chitosan-based composite membranes. We incorporated varying amounts of RHA into a chitosan solution and prepared thin film membranes via solution casting. We performed structural, chemical, and mechanical characterizations on the ash and membranes, observing 82.84 % water uptake in the 1.5 wt% (wt%) RHA-doped membrane and 13.93 MPa tensile strength in the 2.0 wt% loaded composite. As the RHA content increased, the swelling ratio of the composites with RHA loadings greater than 1.0 wt% decreased, indicating an enhancement in mechanical strength. The observed results demonstrate that combining improved mechanical strength with increased water absorption and reduced swelling can lead to optimal membrane characteristics.

Mineralized tissue loss at the femoral ACL enthesis in young male ACL-injured patients.

Primary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction graft failure remains a significant health concern in young patients. Despite the high incidence of poor graft integration in these patients and the resulting high failure rate, little consideration has been given to the quality of the bone into which the graft is anchored at reconstruction. Therefore, we investigated post ACL injury mineralized tissue changes in the ACL femoral entheses of young males and compared them to changes previously reported for young females. ACL femoral entheses and adjacent bone specimens were harvested from the injured knees of 51 young males during primary ACL reconstructive surgery and from 10 non-injured male cadaveric donors. The specimens were imaged via nano-computed tomography and analyzed for volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) and architectural changes. Male femoral ACL explant specimens had significantly lower cortical vBMD (p < 0.001), lower relative bone volume (BV/TV, p = 0.027) and greater cortical bone porosity (Ct.Po, p = 0.027) but similar trabecular bone parameters (p's > 0.05) to those of control specimens from male cadaveric donors. Cortical and trabecular bone loss increased significantly with time from ACL injury to reconstructive surgery (p's < 0.05). While cortical loss occurred in both males and females, significant trabecular loss occurred only in females (p = 0.009). Femoral entheseal bone loss occurs in males following ACL injury. This bone loss increases with time following ACL injury, with cortical bone loss occurring sooner after injury than trabecular bone loss. The effects of ACL injury and time from injury to surgery on trabecular bone microarchitecture differed between male and female patients. N/A.

Fetal Cartilage Progenitor Cells in the Repair of Osteochondral Defects.

Therapies for cartilage restoration are of great interest, but current options provide limited results. In salamanders, interzone (IZN) tissue can regenerate large joint lesions. The mammalian homolog to this tissue exists during fetal development and exhibits remarkable chondrogenesis in vitro. This study analyzed the potential of equine IZN and adjacent anlagen (ANL) cells to regenerate osteochondral defects. Osteochondral defects were created in the knee of immunosuppressed rats and were grafted with cell pellets from either equine fetal IZN, equine fetal ANL, adult fibroblasts, or adult chondrocytes, or they were left untreated. Osteochondral repair was assessed after 2, 6, and 16 weeks. Untreated lesions unexpectedly failed to represent critical-sized defects and at 2 weeks exhibited new subchondral bone covered by a fibrocartilage layer that thinned over time. Fibroblast-treated defects filled with soft fibrous tissue. Chondrocyte-treated repair tissue exhibited strong proteoglycan and COL2 staining but poor integration to the adjacent bone. Defects treated with IZN, ANL, or chondrocyte pellets developed hyaline cartilage with increasing safranin-O and collagen II staining over time. IZN and ANL repair tissues exhibited some evidence of zonal architecture such as native cartilage and the best bone integration; nonetheless, they developed exuberant growth, often causing patellar instability and osteoarthritis. IZN or ANL cells exhibited some potential to recapitulate developmental features during cartilage repair. However, identifying regulatory determinants of IZN and ANL-derived overgrowths is necessary. Studies grafting IZN or ANL tissues in larger animal models with regular immune functions may provide additional insights into improving osteochondral regeneration.

Coping Strategies of Social Protection Programs for Community Resilience to Climate Shocks in Tana North Sub-County, Tana River County, Kenya

This study examines the effectiveness of coping strategies of social protection programs in enhancing community resilience to climate shocks in Tana North Sub-County, Tana River County, Kenya. Despite its potential as a policy response, the effectiveness of social protection as a coping strategy in fostering community resilience remains underexplored. This study explores coping strategies employed by local communities and analyses the role of social protection interventions in migrating the impacts of climate-related disasters. Using a mix of qualitative and quantitative methods data was collected from 362 respondents, including surveys, interviews, and focus groups. The research finds that while these programs provide essential immediate relief and improve absorptive capacities, their impact on adaptation and long-term resilience is limited. Challenges such as inadequate coverage, irregular support, and poor integration with broader resilience-building efforts hinder their effectiveness and restrict their ability to foster community resilience to shocks. The study underscores the urgent need to identify best practices and inform policy recommendations for improving adaptation and fostering community resilience to climate shocks in the region.

Experimental and numerical study on the mechanical properties of F type socket joints for rectangular pipe jacking with steel screw connection

To solve the problems of insufficient stiffness and poor integrity of traditional F-type socket joints, steel screw connections are set along the longitudinal direction between rectangular pipe jacking joints. However, the mechanical properties of F-type socket joints with steel screw connections have not been fully investigated, and the influence of the coefficient of subgrade reaction has not been considered. In this work, through model tests and numerical simulations of F-type socket joints with steel screws under different coefficients of subgrade reaction, the influence of steel screws on the deformation and damage characteristics of F-type socket joints is discussed, and the bending mechanical response of F-type socket joints under different coefficients of subgrade reaction is analyzed. Compared with traditional F-type socket joints, the use of steel screw connections can reduce the risk of steel ring warping and cross-sectional deformation of the joints and improve the stiffness and load-carrying capacity of the joints. However, the use of steel screw connections exacerbates damage to the chamfered parts of the jack joints. With an increase in the coefficient of subgrade reaction, the benefit of the steel screw on the joint stiffness gradually decreases. For every 0.5-fold increase in the coefficient of subgrade reaction, the effect of the steel screw on the joint bending load-carrying capacity of the joint is reduced by approximately 23%. The failure mode of joints containing steel screws is mainly the crushing of concrete in the compression zone, and the penetration cracks extend from the joint to the bottom of the pipe section. The higher the jacking force is, the higher the load-carrying capacity of the joint and the better the bending resistance.

Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Applications in Agro-based Industries for Economic Development: An Overview of Global Trends, Collaborative Patterns, and Research Gaps

Agro-based industries (ABI) play a significant role in stimulating economic growth by boosting agricultural output, minimizing post-harvest losses, and promoting sustainability. Despite its significance, decision-making in ABI remains hard due to the need to balance economic, environmental, and social objectives. This paper tackles this gap with a bibliometric analysis of multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) applications in ABI, concentrating on global trends, collaborative patterns, and research gaps. Data were obtained from 407 publications published between 2015 and 2024 and examined using programs such as VOSviewer. The results indicate strong growth in MCDM research, with a peak in production reached in 2022. Key findings include the domination of contributions from nations like India, China, and the UK, and the identification of major writers and organizations impacting the subject. However, difficulties such as limited interdisciplinary collaboration and poor integration of emerging technology like artificial intelligence remain prominent. This study concludes that MCDM techniques are essential in optimizing supply chains, resource allocation, and sustainability assessments in ABI. By connecting theoretical frameworks with practical applications, the research gives actionable insights for better decision-making processes in agro-industrial environments, particularly in emerging economies.

Van der Waals growth of monolayer transition metal dichalcogenide superconductors on ultra-flat graphene

Abstract Two-dimensional (2D) superconductors have desirable physical properties and a wide range of potential applications. However, many 2D superconducting materials have poor structural integrity and performance at thicknesses down to monolayer. Therefore, they are still hardly exploited in large-scale practical applications. In this study, we demonstrate a growth strategy based on the two-step vapor deposition process and van der Waals (vdW) ultra-flat graphene as a buffer layer, and thereafter realize the wafer-scale monolayer transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) films, especially for 2D TMD superconductors. By comparing different non-vdW and vdW growth substrates, we demonstrate that ultra-flat graphene films provide an atomically smooth surface and effectively isolates oxygen-dangling bonds, and finally promote the superconducting behaviours of monolayer NbSe2 and TaS2 films. This growth strategy could also be extended to other wafer-scale TMD films and be of both fundamental and technological significance in the development of wafer-scale monolayer TMD-based devices.

Synergizing ergonomic principles with lean philosophy model towards productivity improvement in the shoes manufacturing industry

PurposeThis study aims to address the gap in integrating ergonomic principles with lean principles in the shoe product manufacturing process. The objective is to develop a customized model that effectively combines and synergizes ergonomics and lean principles.Design/methodology/approachPrimary data was collected through on-site observations, interviews and assessment of whole-body discomfort to evaluate the implementation of lean and ergonomic principles in each section of the shoe production process. The collected data were analysed using descriptive statistical tools, content analysis and software such as Microsoft Excel.FindingsThe findings of the study indicate that the case company’s underperformance, achieving only 26.96% of its designed capacity and 50.19% of its planned capacity, is primarily attributed to the poor integration of ergonomic principles with the lean philosophy model. The high prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in the shoe production process significantly contributes to a loss of productivity due to increased absenteeism. The factory experiences a labour absenteeism rate of 5.59%, resulting in overtime and additional costs. To address these issues, the study proposes the adoption of 8S principles and an ergo-lean production system model. This model, conceptualized as a building construction structure, effectively eliminates waste in the shoe production process.Practical implicationsThe study’s findings will greatly enhance productivity in the shoe manufacturing sector by establishing a work environment that prioritizes employee needs and well-being. This will have significant practical implications for improving overall productivity in the industry.Originality/valueThis study stands out as it investigates the proactive integration of ergonomics and lean principles in the shoe manufacturing industry, an area that has not been previously explored. By bridging the gap between these two principles, the research contributes to the existing knowledge base.

Barriers and facilitators to programmatic mass drug administration in persistent schistosomiasis hotspot communities: An ethnographic study along Lake Albert, midwestern Uganda.

The WHO Neglected Tropical Disease Roadmap for 2021-2030 includes the goal of eliminating schistosomiasis as a public health problem in all endemic countries. Despite heightened efforts since 2012, critical action is still required in addressing barriers to Mass Drug Administration, the primary control method. This includes improvement in adherence by the populations in persistent schistosomiasis hotspots. One such hotspot is the shoreline of Lake Albert, Uganda, where schistosomiasis control is provided to school-aged children and adults. An overemphasis on regular treatment, without comprehensively addressing factors that result in low uptake of treatment in these high-risk populations is likely to impact the elimination of schistosomiasis as a public health problem. An ethnographic study using in-depth interviews, key informant interviews, focus group discussions and participant observation was conducted at two study sites along Lake Albert. Thematic content analysis was used during data analysis. The study revealed that the size, taste and smell of the drug, along with its side-effects; poor community integration and occupational behaviour resulting in non-mobilisation; and unfounded rumours and beliefs remain reasons for persistent low uptake of praziquantel by some. Conversely, lived experience of improved health through participation and knowledge of the dangers of the disease if not treated, facilitated treatment uptake. Positive attitudes to localised sensitisation by community drug distributors show social influence facilitates crucial knowledge attainment. Treatment uptake is further facilitated by the delivery of the drug at no cost at home. Crucially, for the majority of participants the facilitating factors were found to outweigh the inhibitory factors related to the drug's side effects. We recommend a good community engagement strategy that provides continuous education and sensitisation, with improved recruitment and training provision for Community Drug Distributors to facilitate programme reach to groups with current poor engagement.

New findings regarding predictors of Poor Corporal Integrity in Penile Implant Recipients: A Multicenter International Invesigation.

To evaluate the pre- and intraoperative variables that impact the integrity of the corporal bodies over time after inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) placement, as predictors of intraoperative corporal perforation and delayed cylinder complications have not been well characterized. We retrospectively reviewed a 16-centre multi-institutional database of IPP surgeries performed by experienced implanters from 2016 to 2021. Poor corporal integrity (PCI) was defined as intraoperative (iPCI) corporal complications or postoperative (pPCI) corporal complications. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of PCI, iPCI, and pPCI. Primary outcomes included intra- and postoperative corporal complications. We identified 5153 patients for analysis from 5406 IPP cases, finding 152 (2.95%) cases of PCI. On multivariable analysis, predictors of PCI included revision IPP surgery (odds ratio [OR] 8.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] 5.15-12.92; P < 0.001), sequential dilatation (OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.32-3.39; P = 0.002), coronary artery disease (CAD)/peripheral vascular disease (PVD) (OR 1.81, 95% CI 1.18-2.77; P = 0.006), older age (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.01-1.04; P = 0.013), and corporal scarring (OR 1.58, 95% CI 1.0-2.5; P = 0.049). Predictors of iPCI included revision IPP surgery (OR 7.34, 95% CI 4.18-12.88; P < 0.001), corporal scarring (OR 2.77, 95% CI 1.64-4.69; P < 0.001), radiation therapy (OR 2.25, 95% CI 1.0-5.04; P = 0.049), and older age (OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.0-1.05; P = 0.025). Revision IPP surgery (OR 7.92, 95% CI 3.69-17.01; P < 0.001), sequential dilatation (OR 3.4, 95% CI 1.61-7.19; P = 0.001), CAD/PVD (OR 2.98, 95% CI 1.56-5.72; P = 0.001), and history of priapism (OR 3.59, 95% CI 1.08-11.99; P = 0.038) were predictive of pPCI. Coronary artery disease/PVD, being of older age, having corporal scarring, undergoing IPP revision surgery and sequential dilatation were predictive risk factors for complications associated with PCI. Identifying patients who are at risk of having PCI may improve patient-specific counselling, consideration of referral to more experienced implanters, and surgical planning to potentially promote longer-term device viability.

Barriers and facilitators to integration of screening for hypertension, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidaemia, among adult people living with HIV at district hospital ART clinics in Southern Malawi.

Background Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCDs) are a significant health concern globally and in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), particularly for people living with HIV (PLWH). Hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), and dyslipidaemia significantly increase the risk of ASCDs, and integrating screening for these conditions in public health facilities remains challenging in Malawi. This study aimed to explore the barriers and facilitators to integrating screening for hypertension, DM and dyslipidaemia among adult PLWH at district hospital ART clinics in Southern Malawi. Methods This was mixed-methods study conducted between November 2021 and April 2022. Quantitative data was collected from retrospective ART clinic records from between 2016 and 2020 (n = 875) from five district hospital ART clinics and informed the subsequent qualitative data collection, guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) in three purposively selected district hospital ART clinics. The qualitative aspect included in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. Non-participant observations were also conducted to assess the availability of functional screening equipment. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the quantitative data while the qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis. Results One district hospital ART clinic facility only performed the screening for hypertension and DM (40% and 9.84% at the commencement of ART and 39.4% and 5.14% in 2021). Facilitators for integration included time efficiency, patient information integration, existing infrastructure utilization, organisational incentives and training. Barriers included clinic flow delays, additional strain on a limited workforce, lack of prioritization and resources, increased workload and inadequate knowledge. PLWH expressed fear of screening and diagnosis without available medication. Conclusion The study found poor integration of hypertension, DM and dyslipidaemia screening among PLWH in Southern Malawi, but highlighted opportunities for successful implementation. Our study emphasizes the feasibility of the intervention and the importance of coordination between HIV and NCD care services in low-income settings such as Malawi.

Artificial intelligence after the bedside: co-design of AI-based clinical informatics workflows to routinely analyse patient-reported experience measures in hospitals

ObjectiveTo co-design artificial intelligence (AI)-based clinical informatics workflows to routinely analyse patient-reported experience measures (PREMs) in hospitals.MethodsThe context was public hospitals (n=114) and health services (n=16) in a large state...

Student attrition in gender-atypical fields of study: a case of disapproval by parents and friends or lacking social integration?

AbstractIn most industrialized countries, the choice of college majors is segregated by gender. Few students enroll in gender-atypical majors. Previous studies suggested that some attrition risks are associated with the gender composition of majors. In this paper, I investigated whether students in gender-atypical majors are more likely to leave the major by dropping out or switching to a different major with more same-sex students than those majoring in gender-typical subjects. Furthermore, I hypothesized that the relation between gender composition and non-completion risks is partially mediated by two social processes, namely poor social integration and disapproval of the major from parents and friends. Using data from undergraduate students from the German National Educational Panel Study, I conducted discrete-time survival analyses and a KHB decomposition. I found that both men and women in gender-atypical majors have a higher risk of switching to a major with a higher percentage of same-sex students than students in gender-typical majors. Women in gender-atypical majors also have a higher dropout risk. Poor social integration and disapproval of the major by parents and friends increase the switching risk and, in the case of social integration, also the dropout risk for all students. However, these two aspects cannot explain the higher attrition risk for students in gender-atypical majors, with one exception. Only for women in gender-atypical majors, lower approval of the major by friends partly mediates the association between the gender composition of the major and the risk of switching to a more female-dominated major.

Vertical Integration of the Rice Market in Lampung Province

Rice prices in Indonesia rose significantly in early 2024, with premium-quality rice reaching IDR 16,410 per kilogram—a 21.3% increase compared to the previous year. These disparities stem from weaknesses in the agribusiness structure, poor market integration, and insufficient market information. This study aims to analyze rice market integration at the farmer-producer and consumer levels in Lampung Province. Secondary time-series data on grain prices at the producer level and retail rice prices at the consumer level from 2018 to 2023 were analyzed using price correlation, price transmission elasticity, and the IMC method. Results indicate a consistent upward trend in both retail rice and farmers’ grain prices, which are positively correlated. However, price transmission elasticity reveals that price changes at the farmer-producer level outpace those at the consumer level. The analysis concludes that rice market integration in Lampung is weak in the short term but demonstrates strong integration over the long term. These findings highlight the need for improved agribusiness structures and better market information systems to enhance market efficiency

Approaches to Improve Both Cycle and Calendar Life of Silicon-Based Lithium-Ion Batteries

During the last few decades, silicon (Si) has been extensively investigated as the next generation of anode material for lithium (Li)-ion batteries (LIBs) due to its high theoretical capacity (~ 4200 mAh g−1) which is more than ten times larger than those of graphite anode materials. However, because of the huge volume changes (~ 300%) of Si during repeated lithiation and delithiation, its lower electrical conductivity, inconsistent kinetics reaction, and relatively low initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE), large-scale application of Si-based LIBs (Si-LIBs) is still limited. The abovementioned intrinsic characteristics of Si trigger the short cycle life of Si-LIBs due to several reasons: 1) pulverization of Si particles; 2) Increasing cell impedance associated with continuous growth of solid electrolyte interphases (SEI) layers, 3) Poor structural integrity of the electrodes. In addition, the calendar life of Si-LIBs is still less than two years, which is far less than the ten-year calendar life required for electric vehicle applications. To improve both cycle life and calendar life, we have developed a low-cost, pitch-based carbon coating approach to synthesize micron-sized porous Si particles. A novel etching method is also developed to prevent overheating and bubbling during the Si etching process. Recently, we have developed a novel electrolyte based on the concept of localized high concentration electrolyte tailored for Si-LIBs. It leads to the formation of stable interphase layers on both the anode and cathode and effectively blocks the crosstalk between the electrodes, minimizing the impedance increase of Si||LiNi0.6Mn0.2Co0.2 (NMC622) batteries during storage at elevated temperature (55°C), therefore largely improves their calendar life. Si||NMC622 batteries using this electrolyte also demonstrated high-capacity retention of 92.4% after 500 cycles at 45°C with well-preserved electrode structures. More details on the development of Si-LIBs in PNNL will be presented in this talk.