A one-dimensional model for superconductivity in a thin wire of slowly varying cross-section

Using formal asymptotics, a one–dimensional Ginzburg–Landau model describing superconductivity in a thin wire of arbitrary shape and slowly varying cross-section is derived. The model is valid for all magnetic fields and for temperatures T, such that the thickness of the wire is much less than the coherence length ξT. The model is used to calculate the normal–superconducting transition curves for closed wire loops of different cross-sections, as functions of temperature and the magnetic flux cutting the loop. This shows a periodic dependence on flux, superimposed on a parabolic background

Classification of phase transitions in thin structures with small Ginzburg-Landau parameter

Thin superconducting structures are considered. We compute the limit where the thickness and the Ginzburg-Landau parameter tend simultaneously to zero with a preferred scaling. The new equations enable us to divide the parameter space into regimes of first order or second order phase transition. The results are discussed in light of recent experiments

The mixed boundary condition for the Ginzburg Landau model in thin films

The mixed boundary condition for the Ginzburg Landau model of superconductivity is considered in thin films. A simplified model is derived in the asymptotic limit of very small thickness. We also show that under certain conditions there is no nucleation of superconductivity at al

The Reactive Sulfur Species Concept: 15 Years On

Fifteen years ago, in 2001, the concept of “Reactive Sulfur Species” or RSS was advocated as a working hypothesis. Since then various organic as well as inorganic RSS have attracted considerable interest and stimulated many new and often unexpected avenues in research and product development. During this time, it has become apparent that molecules with sulfur-containing functional groups are not just the passive “victims” of oxidative stress or simple conveyors of signals in cells, but can also be stressors in their own right, with pivotal roles in cellular function and homeostasis. Many “exotic” sulfur-based compounds, often of natural origin, have entered the fray in the context of nutrition, ageing, chemoprevention and therapy. In parallel, the field of inorganic RSS has come to the forefront of research, with short-lived yet metabolically important intermediates, such as various sulfur-nitrogen species and polysulfides (Sx2−), playing important roles. Between 2003 and 2005 several breath-taking discoveries emerged characterising unusual sulfur redox states in biology, and since then the truly unique role of sulfur-dependent redox systems has become apparent. Following these discoveries, over the last decade a “hunt” and, more recently, mining for such modifications has begun—and still continues—often in conjunction with new, innovative and complex labelling and analytical methods to capture the (entire) sulfur “redoxome”. A key distinction for RSS is that, unlike oxygen or nitrogen, sulfur not only forms a plethora of specific reactive species, but sulfur also targets itself, as sulfur containing molecules, i.e., peptides, proteins and enzymes, preferentially react with RSS. Not surprisingly, today this sulfur-centred redox signalling and control inside the living cell is a burning issue, which has moved on from the predominantly thiol/disulfide biochemistry of the past to a complex labyrinth of interacting signalling and control pathways which involve various sulfur oxidation states, sulfur species and reactions. RSS are omnipresent and, in some instances, are even considered as the true bearers of redox control, perhaps being more important than the Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) or Reactive Nitrogen Species (RNS) which for decades have dominated the redox field. In other(s) words, in 2017, sulfur redox is “on the rise”, and the idea of RSS resonates throughout the Life Sciences. Still, the RSS story isn’t over yet. Many RSS are at the heart of “mistaken identities” which urgently require clarification and may even provide the foundations for further scientific revolutions in the years to come. In light of these developments, it is therefore the perfect time to revisit the original hypotheses, to select highlights in the field and to question and eventually update our concept of “Reactive Sulfur Species”

Best Practice for Confirmation of Nasogastric Tube Placement in Pediatric Patients

Abstract Background: Nasogastric (NG) tubes are used to provide nutrition or charcoal to patients who cannot swallow or are intubated. For pediatric patients, auscultation confirmation is often used to confirm placement despite the evidence that x-ray confirmation is a more accurate way to confirm placement. Incorrect placement leads to incidents of higher rates of healthcare acquired infections, financial strain on the hospital, and longer lengths of stay for patients. Objectives: The objective of this evidence-based review is to review relevant published studies in determining the best practice for confirmation of NG tubes in pediatric patients. Methods: A database search was conducted in which five databases (PubMed NCBI, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, MEDLINE Complete, Ovid Nursing Collection, and Proquest) were searched using a variety of keywords. Studies were included in this review if they met the following criteria: English language, pediatric population, hospital setting, NG tubes used, published after 2012, peer-reviewed journals, and full-text availability. Results: Thirteen articles were included (six quantitative, six qualitative, and one mixed-method). The results showed that recommendations for the use of auscultation for confirmation is split amongst researchers despite statistics showing that incorrect placement is happening at significant rates. X-ray confirmation remains the best way to confirm NG tube placement despite radiation concerns. Ultrasound guidance remains largely untested, and its safety level is inconclusive. Conclusions: X-ray confirmation of NG tube placement remains the best and safest way to confirm NG tube placement. Future research should focus on discovering new methods of confirmation, and ways to make previously known methods of confirmation safer for patients and nurses. Keywords: nasogastric tubes, pediatric patients, auscultation confirmation, x-ray confirmation, healthcare acquired infections, financial strain, ultrasound guidanc

The interface of environment and human wellbeing: Exploring the impacts of gold mining on food security in Ghana

This paper explores the intricate connections between the environment and human wellbeing, focusing on the interplay between mining, agriculture, and food security. Despite a vast body of literature examining the impact of mining on agriculture and subsequent implications for food security, there remains a notable gap in comprehensive studies evaluating these effects across all dimensions of food security: availability, access, utilisation, and stability. Particularly lacking are assessments regarding the food diversity of women of reproductive age in mining areas. Drawing from a survey involving 460 participants, alongside 85 face-to-face interviews, the study extensively investigates the complex relationship between small-scale mining, smallholder farming, and food security. It elucidates both the positive and negative aspects of this nexus, emphasising its influence on economic activities, market dynamics, employment opportunities, and income generation. However, the study also sheds light on adverse consequences, such as land dispossession, water pollution, and increased competition for labour. Utilising the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES) survey, the research reveals alarming levels of food insecurity, with 50.1% experiencing moderate food insecurity and 13.3% facing severe food insecurity, surpassing the national average. This highlights a significant portion of the population enduring at least a day without adequate food, particularly impacting women with low dietary diversity scores. These findings underscore the intricate linkages between mining, smallholder farming, and individual well-being, concluding that while mining may stimulate local economies, it substantially undermines food security across its fundamental dimensions. Consequently, mining emerges as a substantial contributor to food insecurity and compromises the well-being of numerous individuals, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable groups, especially women

Community engagement and vulnerability in infectious diseases:A systematic review and qualitative analysis of the literature

Background The global response to infectious diseases has seen a renewed interest in the use of community engagement to support research and relief efforts. From a perspective rooted in the social sciences, the concept of vulnerability offers an especially useful analytical frame for pursuing community engagement in a variety of contexts. However, few have closely examined the concept of vulnerability in community engagement efforts, leading to a need to better understand the various theories that underline the connections between the two. Method This literature review searched four databases (covering a total of 537 papers), resulting in 15 studies that analyze community engagement using a framing of vulnerability, broadly defined, in the context of an infectious disease, prioritizing historical and structural context and the many ways of constituting communities. Findings The review identified historical and structural factors such as trust in the health system, history of political marginalization, various forms of racism and discrimination, and other aspects of vulnerability that are part and parcel of the main challenges faced by communities. The review found that studies using vulnerability within community engagement share some important characteristics (e.g., focus on local history and structural factors) and identified a few theoretical avenues from the social sciences which integrate a vulnerability-informed approach in community engagement. Finally, the review proposes an approach that brings together the concepts of vulnerability and community engagement, prioritizing participation, empowerment, and intersectoral collaboration

Neighborhood and Built Environment: Addressing Access to Community Resources in Burke County Through Improved Transportation Access

This analysis dives into the Social Determinant of Health (SDOH), Neighborhood and Built Environment, specifically within Burke County, North Carolina. This SDOH identifies disparities in living conditions, emphasizing the need for improved interventions. Utilizing both political action and improved funding, the proposed intervention aims to improve transportation access. Key recommendations include expanding bus services, introducing subsidized passes, and collaborating with local organizations. Stakeholder engagement will be promoted in efforts to address the public health issue and ensure long-term success of the program. Through the creation of a steering committee, set conflict resolution plans, and sustainability plans, this program should bring about positive change in the community. By prioritizing leadership, engagement, quality and policy enhancements, Burke County can foster a healthier, more inclusive community with improved transportation access.Master of Public Healt

Neighborhood and Built Environment: Addressing Access to Community Resources in Burke County Through Improved Transportation Access

This analysis dives into the Social Determinant of Health (SDOH), Neighborhood and Built Environment, specifically within Burke County, North Carolina. This SDOH identifies disparities in living conditions, emphasizing the need for improved interventions. Utilizing both political action and improved funding, the proposed intervention aims to improve transportation access. Key recommendations include expanding bus services, introducing subsidized passes, and collaborating with local organizations. Stakeholder engagement will be promoted in efforts to address the public health issue and ensure long-term success of the program. Through the creation of a steering committee, set conflict resolution plans, and sustainability plans, this program should bring about positive change in the community. Key recommendations include expanding bus services, introducing subsidized passes, and collaborating with local organizations. By prioritizing leadership, engagement, quality and policy enhancements, Burke County can foster a healthier, more inclusive community with improved transportation access. Keywords: neighborhood and built environment, transportation, bus system, accessMaster of Public Healt