bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cooperativas y SAT agroalimentarias: una comparación de la calidad del resultado contable
Authors: Juárez Rubio María Isabel , Leiva Jurac Maribel , Sabaté Prats Pere , Alfranca Buriel Óscar
Published: July 2021

Las empresas asociativas agroalimentarias son instituciones importantes a la hora de reforzar la posición económica de los agricultores y de promover el desarrollo regional y el empleo rural. No obstante, para fomentar el desarrollo de actividades económicas y sociales necesitan adoptar importantes medidas de modernización, de gestión empresarial y de comercialización. La calidad de la información contable es básica para las empresas, pues facilita la toma de decisiones y mejora las posibilidades en la captación de recursos financieros.El objetivo de este artículo es explorar y comparar la calidad de la información contable presentada por las cooperativas y las SAT agroalimentarias en la última década y conocer qué grupo ha proporcionado una información financiera de mayor calidad.
Sobre o que precisamos conversar pelo caminho? Campanha da Fraternidade Ecumênica em tempos de fundamentalismos: aprendizados e desafios para o movimento ecumênico
Authors: Bencke Romi Márcia
Published: July 2021

Este artigo apresenta uma reflexão sobre a Campanha da Fraternidade Ecumênica 2021 que teve como tema Fraternidade e diálogo: compromisso de amor e lema Cristo é a nossa paz: do que era dividido fez uma unidade (Ef 2,14). Esta foi a quinta edição ecumênica da Campanha da Fraternidade, realizada todos os anos, no período da quaresma, pela Conferência Nacional dos Bispos do Brasil (CNBB). No entanto, foi a primeira vez que a CFE foi alvo de intensos ataques e tensionamentos internos – em parte pelas próprias igrejas que estiveram envolvidas na sua realização. Analisar estes ataques e tensionamentos, meses após a realização da campanha, é um exercício para compreender a atual conjuntura interna das igrejas ecumênicas e do próprio movimento ecumênico brasileiro, procurando identificar os prejuízos, os aprendizados e desafios que esta experiência apresenta. O artigo está dividido em três partes. A primeira apresenta os objetivos da campanha, a justificativa para a escolha do tema e as igrejas participantes; a segunda parte contextualiza as reações ao texto-base; e a terceira identifica aprendizados e desafios.
From fear to siblinghood, compassion and love: the role of faith communities in the time of the coronavirus pandemic
Authors: Ty Rey
Published: July 2021

This article presents the argument according to which pandemics have always affected the human society, the current COVID-19 being the latest of the series of health crisis that affects humankind. The objectives of this paper were fourfold. First, it traced the development of global epidemics that have plagued the world, drawing lessons from classics in fiction and non-fiction literature. Second, it investigated the impact of the current pandemic on human lives today. Third, it examined the role of the churches and faith-based groups individuals in response to the needs of the people during the pandemic. Fourth, it laid down further tasks that need to be undertaken during this health crisis. Critical international political economy, deep ecology, eco-centrism and the human rights-based approach guided this research. An Asia-wide ecumenical fellowship of national councils and churches served as the case study. Specifically, it investigated the ways in which the churches responded to the pandemic in relation to migrant workers and food security.
A dimensão pedagógica do diálogo: encontros e reencontros no caminho de uma fraternidade sororal
Authors: Colet Raquel De Fátima
Published: July 2021

As relações em um mundo plural colocam em evidência a necessidade e a urgência do diálogo. Este, por sua vez, não se resume a uma prática externa que envolve códigos linguísticos e simbólicos, mas afeta as identidades em relação. Tal premissa permite pensar a dialogicidade como uma experiência aprendente, na qual os sujeitos e contextos vão se transformando à medida em que protagonizam autênticos encontros e reencontros. Como princípio que sustenta a proposta de uma pedagogia do diálogo, o horizonte da fraternidade e sororidade orienta para uma educação das individualidades que considera a interdependência e a corresponsabilidade entre humanidade, natureza e sociedade. Enquanto processos vitais, as aprendizagens envolvidas consideram, sobremaneira, o cotidiano, bem como o engajamento de todos e todas na tessitura de processos que se sustentam na escuta atenta, ativa e permanente. Nesse percurso, as tradições religiosas e espiritualidades oferecem um contributo singular ao tempo que atuam como mobilizadoras de experiências e narrativas que integram interioridade e solidariedade.
O Ensino Religioso e a Laudato si’: perspectivas e possibilidades
Authors: Wolff Elias , Trevisan Tiago
Published: July 2021

O artigo insere-se em uma perspectiva que busca, considerando a reflexão do cristianismo sobre a urgência do cuidado com a casa comum, apontar elementos importantes que permitam aos professores e às professoras de Ensino Religioso desenvolverem uma prática pedagógica transformadora, visando construir uma cidadania ecológica. O objetivo do artigo é explicitar os temas, as reflexões e as práticas da fé cristã, na sua relação com a ecologia, voltada para a prática pedagógica. Assim, construiu-se a dimensão teórica, por meio de coletas de materiais com indicações de fontes em livros, revistas especializadas, artigos científicos, exortações apostólicas e encíclicas. Como resultado, destaca-se a urgência do cuidado com a casa comum, que é responsabilidade de toda a família humana. O ensino religioso escolar é um espaço privilegiado para as abordagens propostas na Laudato si’, superando um saber ingênuo, construindo novas práticas pedagógicas, de modo a efetivar a transformação, a qual tem por base as ações cotidianas e a maturação de novos hábitos, superando o paradigma tecnocrático.
Clinical and perinatal outcomes of fresh single-blastocyst-transfer cycles under an early follicular phase prolonged protocol according to day of trigger estradiol levels
Authors: Ying Yingfen , Lu Xiaosheng , Zhang Huina , Arhin Samuel Kofi , Hou Xiaohong , Wang Zefan , Wu Han , Lu Jieqiang , Tang Yunbing
Published: July 2021

Backgroud

This study’s objectives were to compare the clinical, perinatal, and obstetrical outcomes of patients with different estradiol (E2) levels in fresh single-blastocyst-transfer (SBT) cycles under an early follicular phase prolonged regimen on the day of trigger.

Methods

We recruited patients in fresh SBT cycles (n = 771) undergoing early follicular phase prolonged protocols with β-hCG values above 10 IU/L between June 2016 and December 2018. Patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were divided into four groups according to their serum E2 level percentages on the day of trigger: <25th, 25th–50th, 51st–75th, and >75th percentile groups.

Results

Although the rates of clinical pregnancy (85.57% (166/194)), embryo implantation 86.60% (168/194), ongoing pregnancy (71.13% (138/194)), and live birth (71.13% (138/194)) were lowest in the >75th percentile group, we did not observe any significant differences (all P > 0.05). We used this information to predict the rate of severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) area under the curve (AUC) = 72.39%, P = 0.029, cut off value of E2 = 2,893 pg/ml with the 75% sensitivity and 70% specificity. The 51st–75th percentile group had the highest rates of low birth weight infants (11.73% (19/162), P = 0.0408), premature delivery (11.43% (20/175), P = 0.0269), admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) (10.49% (17/162), P = 0.0029), twin pregnancies (8.57% (15/175), P = 0.0047), and monochorionic diamniotic pregnancies (8.57% (15/175); P = 0.001). We did not observe statistical differences in obstetrics complications, including gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), gestational hypertension, placenta previa, premature rupture of membranes (PROM), and preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM).

Conclusion

We concluded that serum E2 levels on the day of trigger were not good predictors of live birth rate or perinatal and obstetrical outcomes. However, we found that high E2 levels may not be conducive to persistent pregnancies. The E2 level on the day of trigger can still be used to predict the incidence of early onset severe OHSS in the fresh SBT cycle.
A bright idea—metabarcoding arthropods from light fixtures
Authors: Elbrecht Vasco , Lindner Angie , Manerus Laura , Steinke Dirk
Published: July 2021

Arthropod communities in buildings have not been extensively studied, although humans have always shared their homes with them. In this study we explored if arthropod DNA can be retrieved and metabarcoded from indoor environments through the collection of dead specimens in light fixtures to better understand what shapes arthropod diversity in our homes. Insects were collected from 45 light fixtures at the Centre for Biodiversity Genomics (CBG, Guelph, Canada), and by community scientists at 12 different residential homes in Southern Ontario. The CBG ground floor of the CBG showed the greatest arthropod diversity, especially in light fixtures that were continuously illuminated. The community scientist samples varied strongly by light fixture type, lightbulb used, time passed since lamp was last cleaned, and specimen size. In all cases, the majority of OTUs was not shared between samples even within the same building. This study demonstrates that light fixtures might be a useful resource to determine arthropod diversity in our homes, but individual samples are likely not representative of the full diversity.
Impact of Employee Meaningfulness of Work on Employee Engagement: Study of Non-executive Level Employees in Private Banks in Gampaha District, Sri Lanka
Authors: Shashiprabha H. W. P. Umesha , Jayarathna S. M. D. Yasodara
Published: July 2021

Aims: The present study focused on exploring the impact of employee meaningfulness of work on employee engagement with special reference to non-executive level employees of private banks in Gampaha district, Sri Lanka.

Study Design: This is quantitative study which used deductive approach. Purpose of the study to explain the bahaviour of meaningfulness of work and employee engagement. The study used survey strategy and conducted in a non-contrived setting (natural environment).

Place and Duration of the Study: The data were collected from non-executive level employees of private banks in Gampaha district, Sri Lanka in May 2021.

Methodology: Data were collected from 167 non-executive level employees through a standard questionnaire and distributed via google forms and printed questionnaires. The researcher analyzed data through Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS), and simple regression analysis to test the impact of employee meaningfulness of work on employee engagement.

Results: The findings of this research study revealed that employee meaningfulness of work positively impacts employee engagement among non-executive level employees in private banks. Further, the study findings contribute to the knowledge of Human Resource Management and Organizational Behaviour, and it adds value to the Sri Lankan research knowledge.

Conclusion: The study contributes to the knowledge of Human Resource Management and Organizational Behavior. This study is helpful for identifying the reasons to take actions for enhancing engagement among employees, especially with the meaningfulness of work.
Tree Conservation Challenges among the Indigenous Pastoral Rendille Community in Marsabit, Kenya
Authors: Ekalo Janet Ahatho , Koske James , Gichuki Cecilia , Ngare Innocent
Published: July 2021

Every environment is surrounded by traditional people who have lived in the geographic location for a long time and use their particular knowledge to cohabit with the natural ecosystem. This study assessed challenges encountered towards tree conservation by the Rendille pastoral community in Kenya. Selected tree species; Olea europaea, Terminalia sp. and Hyphaene compressa, that are commonly used by the community were identified and the probable threats towards their conservation. Some of these tree conservation challenges by the indigenous Rendille were: charcoal burning and fuel wood consumption, demand of traditional tree medicinal value, climate variability extremes and demand for land for settlement by the community. The results indicate that, charcoal burning (84.4%) and demand for traditional tree medicine (77.3%) were leading causes frustrating tree conservation among the Rendille. To mitigate these challenges, the respondents indicated that, creation of awareness (89.1%) and promotion of other sources of fuel (78.9%) could be vital factors. The study recommends Integration of Indigenous Knowledge (IK) with formal education to enhance conservation of the mentioned tree species.
Influence of N:K Ratios in Soils on Growth, Nutrient Availability and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Southern Nigeria
Authors: Bakare A. O.
Published: July 2021

This study was undertaken to determine the influence of N:K ratios applied to soils and the availability of N, K on yield of maize in two distinct ecological zones of Edo state of Nigeria. The sites used were Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria (RRIN) Iyanomo (Forest) and the Teaching and Research Farm of Ambrose Alli University, Emaudo, Ekpoma (Derived Savanna). The soils of the two experimental sites were analyzed for both physical and chemical properties before the commencement of the experiments. The experiments were carried out as pot experiments in the screen house and field experiments. Each of the experiments had ten treatments (adjusted ratios) that were fitted into randomized complete block design and replicated three times. Maize was used as the test crop. Results from the screen house revealed that N/K ratio 4:1  had the  highest dry matter yield for both locations, (RRIN; 2.60 g/pot and Emaudo;  2.75 g/pot) but these values were not significantly different (P < 0.05) from what were obtained from N/K ratio 3:1 and 2:1, respectively. The N:K ratio in soil had influence on the availability of N and K. Under field conditions, N/K ratio 4:1 had the highest grain yield for both locations (RRIN; 3.46 ton/ha and Emaudo; 3.33 ton/ha), and the highest cob field weight (RRIN; 9.92 ton/ha and Emaudo; 9.33 ton/ha), hence its recommendation.
Microbial Quality of Industrially Processed Sachet-Packed Fruit Drinks Consumed Mostly by School Children in Nigeria
Authors: Fowoyo P. T. , Amadi H.
Published: July 2021

Fruit drinks are often packed as accompaniments with school children’s lunch packs in Nigeria. In recent times, reports from consumers stated that a lot of these drinks when opened up and poured into cups before drinking, fungal mass was present and this has queried the safety of consumption of these drinks. The aim of this study was to determine whether commercially packed fruit drinks consumed majorly by school children were microbially contaminated. Twenty (20) samples of sachet packed fruit drinks comprising of 4 different flavours precisely orange, pineapple, apple and multivitamin flavours were analyzed for their microbial quality. The total bacterial and fungal counts in the samples examined did not exceed the regulatory microbiological criteria for fruit drinks. Lactobacillus, Bacillus, Staphylococcus aureus, Rhizopus, Aspergillus and Penicillium species were isolated from the samples.  Lactobacillus poses no health risk to the consumer however, the incidence of Bacillus and Staphylococcus aureus  in the drink samples is quite worrisome as they have been implicated as potential pathogens. The fungal species isolated are of public health concern especially as some have been implicated as mycotoxin producers. The presence of these organisms in the drinks may be attributed to indigenous microflora of fruits or concentrates used, poor hygienic practices during production and low pH of the drinks. It is therefore necessary that fruit drink manufacturers adhere strictly to microbiological quality standards and specifications during production especially for foods to be consumed by children with developing immune systems.
Influence of Tillage and Weed Management Practices on Yield and Nutrient Uptake of Maize
Authors: Samrat M. , Madhavi M. , Prathiba T. Ram Prakashand
Published: July 2021

A field experiment entitled ‘Influence of tillage and weed management practices on yield and nutrient uptake of maize’ was conducted during Rabi-2018 at all India coordinated research project on Weed Management, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad to study the effect of different tillage and weed management practices on nutrient uptake of maize. The soil of the experimental field was sandy clay loam in texture with moderately alkaline pH, low in available nitrogen, medium in available P and high in available K. The field experiment was laid out in split plot design with (five tillage practices) in main plots and (three weed management practices) in sub plots. The results revealed that highest total nitrogen uptake was recorded with conventional tillage (Transplanted rice) – zero tillage (maize) and it is on par with conventional tillage (transplanted rice) – conventional tillage (maize) treatments. The highest total phosphorus and total potassium uptake was recorded with conventional tillage (transplanted) – conventional tillage (maize) and it was on par with conventional tillage (Transplanted) – zero tillage (maize). Integrated weed management was found to be significantly superior with nutrient uptake followed by chemical weed management.
Inhibitory Activities of Bryophyllum pinnatum leaf extract on Selected Strains of Microorganisms
Authors: Oladejo A. A. , Ogbunugafor H. A. , Okafor C. S. , Kyrian-Ogbonna E. A. , Chidi-Onuorah L. C.
Published: July 2021

Bryophyllum pinnatum Lam. (Crassulaceae) called ‘Oda-opue’ in Igbo, ‘Eru-odundunin Yoruba and ‘Abomoda’ in Hausa languages are widely used as food and as medicines in traditional medical practice. They are found widely in tropical Africa, America, India and China. This study investigates the inhibitory activities of hydro-ethanolic leaf extract of B. Pinnatum against some strains of microorganisms (Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Psuedomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Basillus subtilis, Aspergillus niger and Penicillum marneffei) using standard inoculate method. Results showed that hydro-ethanolic leaf extract of B. pinnatum exhibited a considerable antimicrobial activity at the lowest concentration (15.625 mg/ml). The results in the findings showed that the leaf of B. pinnatum has high inhibitory activities against pathogenic organisms and could be employed to formulate new plant-based drug to improve human health.
Comparison between Morphine and Hyaluronidase Added to Local Anesthetic in Sonar Guided Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block; Randomized Double Blinded Controlled Study
Authors: Elmaghraby Ahmed A. E. , Omara Amany F. , Mohammed Rabab M. , Alzeftawy Ashraf E.
Published: July 2021

Background: Huge volumes of local anaesthetics used in conventional blocks may be associated with complications. Hyaluronidase is an enzyme that hydrolyses hyaluronic acid in the tissue. It has been shown to aid the spread of local anaesthetics (LA) through tissue. The aim of this study was to compare between the addition of morphine or hyaluronidase to local anaesthetic in sonar guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block regarding the onset and duration of the block, postoperative analgesia and the total analgesic requirements in the first 24 hours.

Patient and methods: Seventy-five patients of American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I & II, aged 18-60 years, scheduled to acute or elective elbow, forearm or hand surgery under sonar guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block at Tanta University Hospital were randomly allocated into three equal groups; Group I (Control group) received 20 ml containing 9 ml bupivacaine 0.5% and 9 ml lidocaine 2% plus 2 ml normal saline, group II (Morphine group) received 20 ml containing 9 ml bupivacaine 0.5% and 9 ml lidocaine 2% plus 5 mg morphine in 2 ml normal saline and group III (Hyaluronidase group) received 20 ml containing 9 ml bupivacaine 0.5% and 9 ml lidocaine 2% plus 1500 units of hyaluronidase in 2 ml normal saline. The onset of sensory and motor block, duration of sensory and motor block, postoperative VAS, time to first rescue analgesia, total morphine consumption and possible side effects were recorded.

Results: Onset of the sensory block and motor block was significantly shorter in the hyaluronidase group than control group and morphine group. Duration of the sensory block and motor block was significantly prolonged in morphine group than hyaluronidase group & control group. VAS started to increase at 6 hours in the control group, at 10 hours in morphine group and at 8 hours in hyaluronidase group. Time to first rescue analgesia was significantly prolonged in morphine group than control group and hyaluronidase group. Total analgesic consumption of morphine was significantly lower in morphine group than control group and hyaluronidase group.

Conclusion: Morphine was superior to hyaluronidase as regarding to improving the post-operative pain. The incidence of complications was nil and self-limited in the three groups.
Development of High Sensitivity Illuminance Meter for Measurements in Lighting Engineering and Photometry
Authors: Kuvaldin Eduard V.
Published: July 2021

Possible ways of solving the main problems arising in development, manufacture and calibration of high-sensitivity Illuminance meters are considered. Methods of reducing the lower limit of measurement of Illuminance to 10-5 lux are proposed. Errors of correcting light filters of different manufacturing methods are estimated. The calculations of measurement errors of illuminance from modern energy-saving lamps and LEDs are made.
COVID-19 and Common Myths and Policy Intervenes
Authors: Kochhal Niharika
Published: July 2021

Background: COVID-19 pandemic has grappled the worldin the last two years. No concrete solution is available yet, but the news about the last stage approval of several vaccine candidates is promising.

Summary: Infodemic, as United Nations term it, is creating menace all across the globe. Usually not noticed, it has serious repercussions if not detected and left untreated. Cooperation across the spectrum of both citizens and law enforcement agencies are needed to stop this spread. As various laws are already in place, enforcing those is a serious challenge as tracing digital footprints can sometimes be difficult.

Conclusion: More analysis on how these messages and fake news are getting transmitted should be done. A counter campaign against Infodemic may be another option after practicing digital hygiene.
The Role of HRCT chest in COVID-19 Pneumonia
Authors: Govindani Nisha P. , Lakhkar Bhushan , Christian Ravi , Tiwaskar Suhas , Madurwar Kaustubh Anil , Singh Varun , Unadkat Bhavik , Tapadia Shreya
Published: July 2021

COVID-19 pneumonia is a recently identified lung infection, the hazardous factor of this pneumonia is pandemic dissemination of infection by corona virus. Due to its high mortality and morbidity it has become a threat to the human life. As pneumonia is the commonest manifestation chest x-ray becomes the primary modality of investigation however many symptomatic patients do not have a positive chest X-ray findings hence, HRCT is used as primary modality for both screening as well as a diagnosing COVID-19 pneumonia. It has been observed that in many situations RT-PCR test are negative or inconclusive but the HRCT in such cases is useful and conclusive.

Aim of the article is to highlight the role of HRCT in diagnosing COVID-19 pneumonia and providing proper guidance to the Clinicians for assessing the response and therapeutic purpose for covid19 pneumonia. recently, HRCT score have also been used to provide the clinicians an idea about the Prognosis of this disease progress.
Dermatological Manifestations of Magnesium and Thermite Poisoning
Authors: Abahussain Reem Mohammed S. , Jubeiri Atheer Abdullah Al , Alruwaili Asma Saleh S. , Al-Ghamdi Faisal Saeed A. , Alhamdi Muath Sulaiman G. , Albalawi Amani Ahmad S. , Alanazi Renad Mohammed H. , Alhawiti Raghad Mohammed E. , Aljohani Khalid Bakhet B. , Alquayr Sarah Majed A.
Published: July 2021

Thermite is a metal powder and metal oxide mixture that is pyrotechnic. Thermite conducts an exothermic decrease oxidation process (redox) when inflamed by the heat or chemical reaction. Burning thermite or magnesium produces predominantly thermal injury that may be considered identical to deep partial- or full-thickness thermal burns. While exposure to incendiary metals can occur in many settings, serious burns are most likely to result from industrial or military incidents. The main cause of thermal damage in combustion thermite or magnesium is the identical to the profound burning thermal burning of partial or total thickness. Thermite incendiaries can create several tiny, deep, dispersed molten iron burns. Local anesthetic may make this feasible. Outcomes and complications of incendiary metal burns are similar to other thermal injuries. In this paper we overview magnesium and thermite poisoning dermatologically and their management.
A Silver Hope in the Dreadful Pandemic: Shift towards a Healthier Lifestyle, Hygiene and Cleanliness
Authors: Dhabalia Rishabh
Published: July 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has spread its terror globally for over a year now. There is no continent that has been spared by this scourge. And perhaps a few small countries with no reported cases. Regardless, it is an irrefutable fact that this novel coronavirus pandemic has shaken the pillars of human civilization. For those unaware or living under a rock since the past year or so, the disease is caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus. The first cases were reported to the World Health Organisation as a cluster of pneumonia from unknown causes from Wuhan, China on the 31st December, 2019. And, thus began its reign of terror, spreading across the world, like hot cakes sold out in a carnival. That being said, humanity has suffered a lot at the hands of the pandemic. Innumerous deaths, sufferings, unending lockdowns and curfews, social problems, people losing their livelihoods and the list goes on. It is, thus, easy to give in to the mood of gloom and doom with all that is going on around us. However, just as with anything, there is a side too, that is scarcely talked about. There have also been some positive impacts of this pandemic that one couldn’t have foreseen beforehand. So, without further ado, below we have covered a few positive side effects of this curse of a pandemic!
Earrings: An Obscured Source of Cross- Contamination in Dental Clinics of India
Authors: Singh Sweta , Talmale Priyanka , Archana G.
Published: July 2021

Purpose: This study aimed to check for the bacterial contamination of earrings worn by female dentists involved in direct patient care.

Method: This cross-sectional microbiological study was carried out among female dentists working in clinical departments of a tertiary care dental hospital. A questionnaire concerning awareness regarding the donning of ornaments as possible source of contamination was administered. It also included questions on measures taken to prevent cross contamination through earrings and methods for disinfection of earrings used if any. Two swabs from each participant were taken, one from the earring and other from the underlying skin site using a sterile microbial swab moistened in saline. The samples were then dispensed into 1 ml of sterile water by vortexing for 45s. The vortexed sample was then inoculated onto Blood Agar. The inoculated plates were incubated for 24 hours at 37˚C aerobically. Further examination was done for the count of bacteria, type of bacteria and antibiotic sensitivity.

Result: In total 90 swabs, 45 each from earring and underlying skin were cultured for microorganisms. All the (100%) samples were positive for bacterial contamination. The swabs obtained from underlying skin sites were found to have significantly higher microbial load. (p-value = 0.008). Sixty two percent (62%) of the participants were aware of earrings being a possible source of contamination and 55% had the knowledge that ornaments are supposed to be removed while working in patient clinics. Only 5% practiced removing the ornaments which included bangles/bracelets, rings and watches. None reported to have removed earrings while working in clinics.

Conclusion: The results of this study show that earrings are potential source of cross contamination in a dental setting. This can act as nidus for colonization of bacteria and possible source for nosocomial infections and pathogenic transmission.
Overview of COVID-19 Pandemic: Transmission, Epidemiology and Diagnosis
Authors: Devi Akoijam Nisha
Published: July 2021

In the early part of the last month of the year 2019, suddenly many people started suffering from a new respiratory disease in the city of Wuhan in China. At that time the cause of the disease was not known. The disease was caused by a new coronavirus which was never detected in the past. WHO called it the novel coronavirus 2019. Later the virus was named as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. The disease is considered to have originated from the wet market located in the city of Wuhan in China. It came from the bats and infected the humans and possibly with an intermediate host like the pangolins. From the place it originated the disease spread to other places within China and to other countries outside China. WHO recognised the disease as a pandemic, as the disease spread to other parts of the world in Europe and Asia. This pandemic has affected the mankind as never before. More than 110 million people are confirmed infected with this disease. More than 2.5 million people have succumbed to this devastating disease. The pandemic has affected almost all the countries in the world. At a time when many countries were in lockdown mode, it seemed the world had come to a standstill. Individuals of both sexes belonging to all age groups can get infected, although old persons and persons with co-morbid conditions are more prone to get infected and also has more chance to develop severe form of this disease carrying high morbidity and mortality. In this review, the literature of the causative agent, epidemiology, mode of transmission, diagnosis and treatment and preventive strategies are reviewed, so that the reader is provided with sufficient current knowledge about this disease.
Self‐Delivered Supramolecular Nanomedicine with Transformable Shape for Ferrocene‐Amplified Photodynamic Therapy of Breast Cancer and Bone Metastases
Authors: Qin Yi , Tong Fan , Zhang Wei , Zhou Yang , He Siqin , Xie Rou , Lei Ting , Wang Yushan , Peng Shaojun , Li Zhaofeng , Leong Julian , Gao Huile , Lu Ligong
Published: July 2021

Although nanomedicines can passively target tumor through the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, their distribution and retention are limited by complex tumor microenvironment. Herein, a self‐delivery supramolecular nanoplatform with shape‐transforming capacity (Ce6‐CD/Fc‐pep‐PEG) is constructed by the host‐guest interaction between chlorin e6‐ conjugated β‐cyclodextrin (Ce6‐CD) and ferrocene‐modified FFVLG3C‐PEG conjugates (Fc‐pep‐PEG). Following passive accumulation mediated by the EPR effect, hydrophobic Fc is oxidized to water‐soluble Fc+ by endogenous ROS in tumor sites. The resulting Fc+‐pep‐PEG fragment dissociated from Ce6‐CD and recombined to nanofibers through the intermolecular hydrogen bonds among FFVLG3C peptide chains, thus enhancing the retention. Meanwhile, the Ce6‐CD fragment still maintained the form of spherical micelles with a relatively smaller size to penetrate into the deep tumor regions. Moreover, the cascade Fenton reaction catalyzed by Fc generated •OH and O2 to relieve hypoxia and amplify PDT efficiency. In turn, ROS generated by PDT promoted shape‐transformation and continuous occurrence of Fenton reaction. In vitro and in vivo evaluations verify that through the positive feedback loop, Ce6‐CD/Fc‐pep‐PEG can induce a potent antitumor immune response and achieve ROS‐potentiated elimination of primary tumor and bone metastasis.
Bionic Adaptive Thin‐Membranes Sensory System Based on Microspring Effect for High‐Sensitive Airflow Perception and Noncontact Manipulation
Authors: Zhou Wei , Xiao Peng , Liang Yun , Wang Qiling , Liu Depeng , Yang Qing , Chen Jianhua , Nie Yujing , Kuo Shiao‐Wei , Chen Tao
Published: July 2021

Recently airflow sensors based on mechanical deformation mechanisms have drawn extensive attention due to their favorable flexibility and sensitivity. However, the fabrication of highly sensitive and self‐adaptive airflow sensors in a simple, controllable, and scalable method still remains a challenge. Herein, inspired by the wing membrane of a bat, a highly sensitive and adaptive graphene/single‐walled nanotubes‐Ecoflex membrane (GSEM) based airflow sensor mediated by the reversible microspring effect is developed. The fabricated GSEM is endowed with an ultralow airflow velocity detection limit (0.0176 m s−1), a fast response time (≈1.04 s), and recovery time (≈1.28 s). The GSEM‐based airflow sensor can be employed to realize noncontact manipulation. It is applied to a smart window system to realize the intelligent, open, and close behaviors via a threshold control. In addition, an array of airflow sensors is effectively designed to differentiate the magnitude and spatial distribution of the applied airflow stimulus. The GSEM‐based airflow sensor is further integrated into a wireless vehicle model system, which can sensitively capture the flow velocity information to realize a real‐time direction of motion manipulation. The microspring effect‐based airflow sensing system shows significant potentials in the fields of wearable electronics and noncontact intelligent manipulation.
Multifunctional Dressing for Wound Diagnosis and Rehabilitation
Authors: Tang Ning , Zheng Youbin , Cui Daxiang , Haick Hossam
Published: July 2021

A wound dressing is a sterile pad or compress that is used in direct contact with a wound to help it heal and prevent further issues or complications. Though wound healing is an intricate dynamic process that involves multiple biomolecular species, conventional wound dressings have a limited ability to provide timely information of abnormal conditions, missing the best time for early treatment. The current perspective presents and discusses the design and development of smart wound dressings that are integrated with multifunctional materials, wearable sensors and drug delivery systems as well as their application ranging from wound monitoring to timely application of therapeutics. The perspective also discusses the ongoing challenges and exciting opportunities associated with the development of wearable sensor‐based smart wound dressing and provide critical insights into wound healing monitoring and management.
Arsenene Nanodots with Selective Killing Effects and their Low‐Dose Combination with ß‐Elemene for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Liu Chuang , Sun Shan , Feng Qiang , Wu Gongwei , Wu Yiting , Kong Na , Yu Zhangsen , Yao Junlie , Zhang Xingcai , Chen Wei , Tang Zhongmin , Xiao Yufen , Huang Xiangang , Lv Aman , Yao Chenyang , Cheng Haibo , Wu Aiguo , Xie Tian , Tao Wei
Published: July 2021

Arsenical drugs have achieved hallmark success in treating patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia, but expanding their clinical utility to solid tumors has proven difficult with the contradiction between the therapeutic efficacy and the systemic toxicity. Here, leveraging efforts from materials science, biocompatible PEGylated arsenene nanodots (AsNDs@PEG) with high monoelemental arsenic purity that can selectively and effectively treat solid tumors are synthesized. The intrinsic selective killing effect of AsNDs@PEG is closely related to high oxidative stress in tumor cells, which leads to an activated valence‐change of arsenic (from less toxic As0 to severely toxic oxidation states), followed by decreased superoxide dismutase activity and massive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. These effects occur selectively within cancer cells, causing mitochondrial damage, cell‐cycle arrest, and DNA damage. Moreover, AsNDs@PEG when applied in a multi‐drug combination strategy with β‐elemene, a plant‐derived anticancer drug, achieves synergistic antitumor outcomes, and its newly discovered on‐demand photothermal properties facilitate the elimination of the tumors without recurrence, potentially further expanding its clinical utility. In line of the practicability for a large‐scale fabrication and negligible systemic toxicity of AsNDs@PEG (even at high doses and with repetitive administration), a new‐concept arsenical drug with high therapeutic efficacy for selective solid tumor therapy is provided.
Directional Magnetization Reversal Enables Ultrahigh Energy Density in Gradient Nanostructures
Authors: Lou Li , Li Yuqing , Li Xiaohong , Li Hailing , Li Wei , Hua Yingxin , Xia Weixing , Zhao Zhihe , Zhang Haitian , Yue Ming , Zhang Xiangyi
Published: July 2021

High‐performance ferromagnetic materials are essential for energy conversion and electronic devices. However, the random and nonuniform magnetization reversal in ferromagnetics limits their performance that can be achieved. Here, through both micromagnetism simulations and experiments, a directional magnetization reversal that initiates first from large grains toward smaller ones is discovered by engineering Nd2Fe14B/α‐Fe gradient nanostructures. Such directional magnetization reversal enables a rare combination of high magnetization and large coercivity, thus leading to a record‐high energy density (26 MG Oe) for isotropic permanent magnetic materials, which is ≈50% higher than that of its gradient‐free counterpart. The unusual magnetization reversal originates from an ordered arrangement of grain sizes in the gradient material, where the large grains have a lower reversal field than that of the smaller ones. These findings open up new opportunities for developing high‐performance magnetic materials.
Precise Layer Control and Electronic State Modulation of a Transition Metal Dichalcogenide via Phase‐Transition‐Induced Growth
Authors: Sohn Ahrum , Kim Changhyun , Jung Jae‐Hwan , Kim Jung Hwa , Byun Kyung‐Eun , Cho Yeonchoo , Zhao Pin , Kim Sang Won , Seol Minsu , Lee Zonghoon , Kim Sang‐Woo , Shin Hyeon‐Jin
Published: July 2021

Wafer‐scale growth of transition metal dichalcogenides with precise control over the number of layers, and hence the electronic state is an essential technology for expanding the practical application of 2D materials. Herein, a new growth method, phase‐transition‐induced growth (PTG), is proposed for the precisely controlled growth of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) films consisting of one to eleven layers with spatial uniformity on a 2 in. wafer. In this method, an energetically unstable amorphous MoSxOy (a‐MoSxOy) phase is effectively converted to a thermodynamically stable crystalline MoS2 film. The number of MoS2 layers is readily controlled layer‐by‐layer by controlling the amount of Mo atoms in a‐MoSxOy, which is also applicable for the growth of heteroatom‐inserted MoS2. The electronic states of intrinsic and Nb‐inserted MoS2 with one and four layers grown by PTGare are analyzed based on their work functions. The work function of monolayer MoS2 effectively increases with the substitution of Nb for Mo. As the number of layers increases to four, charge screening becomes weaker, dopant ionization becomes easier, and ultimately the work function increases further. Thus, better electronic state modulation is achieved in a thicker layer, and in this respect, PTG has the advantage of enabling precise control over the film thickness.
All Screen‐Printed, Polymer‐Nanowire Based Foldable Electronics for mm‐Wave Applications
Authors: Li Weiwei , Zhang Haoran , Kagita Srujana , Shamim Atif
Published: July 2021

With the surge in devices for Internet of Things (IoT) applications, there is great interest in flexible electronics to be mass manufactured at lower costs. Screen‐printing is well‐known for mass manufacturing, however, this method has mostly focused on printing metallic patterns. Rare efforts have been devoted to print substrates for high frequency (mm‐wave) electronics, which requires low dielectric loss to ensure a decent system efficiency. This paper presents a novel screen‐printable composite ink comprising of acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene and ceramic particles, through which, dielectric substrates with various thicknesses (down to few microns), lateral dimensions, and relative permittivities can be printed. A low dielectric loss of 0.0063 at 28 GHz (fifth generation (5G) communication band) makes the substrates suitable for mm‐wave electronics. A custom silver nanowires based screen‐printable ink is utilized for metallic printing to provide high conductivity (3.4 × 106 S m‐1) and stable electrical response under bent or folded conditions. As a proof of concept for fully printed mm‐wave electronics, a flexible quasi‐Yagi antenna operating at 5G band (26.5–29.5 GHz) is demonstrated that exhibits decent performance in flat as well as bent conditions, confirming the suitability of the material system and printing processes for mass production of IoT and wearable electronics.
Monochromatic Blue and Switchable Blue‐Green Carbon Quantum Dots by Room‐Temperature Air Plasma Processing
Authors: Weerasinghe Janith , Scott James , Deshan Athukoralalage Don K. , Chen Dechao , Singh Amandeep , Sen Suvankar , Sonar Prashant , Vasilev Krasimir , Li Qin , Ostrikov Kostya (Ken)
Published: July 2021

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs, C‐dots or CDs) are an emerging type of nanomaterial which has received immense attention due to their numerous applications. However, most of the reported CQDs in literature typically emit single emission peak under an excitation. Multipeak emissions without any complicated techniques will be ideal for various applications in the fields of ratiometric sensing, optoelectronics, and multifunctional bio‐imaging systems. Here, a fast, effective, and single‐step method is developed for the bulk synthesis of CQDs using atmospheric pressure air plasmas. Structural, morphological, and chemical properties are characterized by advanced analytical techniques. The CQDs have an average diameter of about 3 nm with a narrow size distribution. Emission wavelengths of 470 nm for blue emissive CQDs and 515 nm for green emissive CQDs are observed. Concentration dependency of the CQDs suggests that the switchable mechanism is due to the formation of PTSA excimers. Dual‐emissive CQDs have the potential to be used in bi‐channel ratiometric determination for metal ions, pH sensing, tumor diagnosis and detection, and solid‐state lighting materials. The proof‐of‐principle demonstration of the use of dual‐emissive CQDs (DCQDs) as a fluorescent sensor of Cu2+ ions is also presented to highlight the possible applications.
Electronic Tuning of Covalent Triazine Framework Nanoshells for Highly Efficient Photocatalytic H2O2 Production
Authors: Yu Xiaohan , Viengkeo Bounxome , He Qing , Zhao Xuan , Huang Qiliang , Li Pingping , Huang Wei , Li Yanguang
Published: July 2021

Photocatalytic H2O2 production is a prospective alternative to the traditional anthraquinone oxidation method for H2O2 production. Compared to well‐established inorganic counterparts, organic photocatalysts show greater promise owing to their structural diversity and functional tunability, but unfortunately suffer from limited activity at present. Here, a comonomer doping strategy is reported to tune the electronic structures of covalent triazine framework nanoshells by introducing strong electron‐withdrawing benzothiadiazole units into the conjugated networks. The product exhibits much enhanced charge separation as evidenced by multiple spectroscopic analyses. When investigated as the photocatalyst in aqueous solution, the best sample can enable an impressive H2O2 production rate of 1630 µmol g−1 h−1, which is approximately three times higher than that of the undoped sample and superior to most other inorganic and organic competitors.
Lipid Nature and Alkyl Length Influence Lymph Node Accumulation of Lipid‐Polyethylene Glycol Amphiphiles
Authors: De Vrieze Jana , Baptista Antonio P. , Nuhn Lutz , Van Herck Simon , Deswarte Kim , Yu Haijun , Lambrecht Bart N. , De Geest Bruno G.
Published: July 2021

Immunomodulatory drugs are of great relevance in the context of vaccine delivery and cancer immunotherapy. Due to the ubiquitous presence of immune cells throughout the body, gaining control over the biodistribution and activity of such drugs is crucial to limit off‐target inflammatory responses. Here, the authors report on lipid‐PEG (polyethylene glycol) amphiphiles as well‐defined amphiphilic carries for lymph node targeted delivery. Comparing cholesterol and dialkyl lipids with different alkyl chain length, the authors found that both the nature of the lipid, as well as, the alkyl chain length have a dramatic influence on cellular uptake and lymph node translocation. Whereas shorter dioctyl‐PEG amphiphiles show overall poor performance, larger dioctadecyl‐PEG amphiphiles are prone to solubility issues. Didodecyl‐PEG amphiphiles with intermediate alkyl chain length are on par with cholesteryl‐PEG amphiphiles in in vitro and in vivo cellular uptake and lymphoid tissue targeting. Immunization with a cholesteryl‐PEG‐imidazoquinoline (TLR7/8 agonist) amphiphile‐adjuvanted model antigen shows induction of immune responses that are qualitatively different from Montanide‐adjuvanted antigen, characterized by effector CD8+ T cells with immediate cytotoxic potential and robust IgG2 antibody responses. These findings provide a rational base for further adjuvant design based on the type of immunity needed for a specific vaccination or therapeutic setting.
Cation Vacancy in Wide Bandgap III‐Nitrides as Single‐Photon Emitter: A First‐Principles Investigation
Authors: Zang Hang , Sun Xiaojuan , Jiang Ke , Chen Yang , Zhang Shanli , Ben Jianwei , Jia Yuping , Wu Tong , Shi Zhiming , Li Dabing
Published: July 2021

Single‐photon sources based on solid‐state material are desirable in quantum technologies. However, suitable platforms for single‐photon emission are currently limited. Herein, a theoretical approach to design a single‐photon emitter based on defects in solid‐state material is proposed. Through group theory analysis and hybrid density functional theory calculation, the charge‐neutral cation vacancy in III‐V compounds is found to satisfy a unique 5‐electron‐8‐orbital electronic configuration with Td symmetry, which is possible for single‐photon emission. Furthermore, it is confirmed that this type of single‐photon emitter only exists in wide bandgap III‐nitrides among all the III‐V compounds. The corresponding photon energy in GaN, AlN, and AlGaN lies within the optimal range for transfer in optical fiber, thereby render the charge‐neutral cation vacancy in wide‐bandgap III‐nitrides as a promising single‐photon emitter for quantum information applications.