Discrimination in Multi-Phase Systems: Evidence from Child Protection.

We develop empirical tools for studying discrimination in multi-phase systems, and apply them to the setting of foster care placement by child protective services. Leveraging the quasi-random assignment of two sets of decision-makers-initial hotline call screeners and subsequent investigators-we study how unwarranted racial disparities arise and propagate through this system. Using a sample of over 200,000 maltreatment allegations, we find that calls involving Black children are 55% more likely to result in foster care placement than calls involving white children with the same potential for future maltreatment in the home.

Effects of Quercetin and Citrulline on Nitric Oxide Metabolites and Antioxidant Biomarkers in Trained Cyclists.

Background: Quercetin (QCT) and citrulline (CIT) have been independently associated with improved antioxidant capacity and nitric oxide (NO) production, potentially enhancing cardiovascular function and exercise performance. This study aimed to evaluate the combined and independent effects of QCT and CIT supplementation on NO metabolites and antioxidant biomarkers in 50 trained cyclists undergoing a 20 km cycling time trial (TT).

Methods: In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design, forty-two male and eight female trained cyclists were assigned to QCT + CIT, QCT, CIT, or placebo (PL) groups.

Disproportionate, differential and targeted treatment: people who use drugs' experiences of policing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, governments worldwide introduced law enforcement measures to deter and punish breaches of emergency public health orders. For example, in Victoria, Australia, discretionary fines of A$1,652 were issued for breaching stay-at-home orders, and A$4,957 fines for 'unlawful gatherings'; to date, approximately 30,000 fines remain outstanding or not paid in full. Studies globally have revealed how the expansion of policing powers produced significant collateral damage for marginalized populations, including people from low-income neighboorhoods, Indigenous Peoples, sex workers, and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.

Map2k6 is a potent genetic modifier of arterial rupture in vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome mice.

Aortic dissection or rupture is a major cause of mortality in vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (vEDS), a connective tissue disorder caused by heterozygous mutations in the COL3A1 gene. C57BL6/J (BL6) mice carrying the Col3a1 G938D/+ mutation recapitulate the vEDS vascular phenotype and die suddenly of aortic rupture/dissection. However, 129S6/SvEvTac (129) mice expressing the same Col3a1 G938D/+ mutation show near-complete life-long protection from vascular rupture.

Australian Community Pharmacists' Preparedness to Offer and Discuss Hepatitis C Testing and Treatment With Pharmacy Clients: A Representative Cross-Sectional Survey.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has set goals to eliminate hepatitis C (HCV) as a global health threat by 2030. To meet this goal, Australia must increase testing and diagnosis, including expanding access to care through community pharmacists. This study aims to explore community pharmacists' preparedness to discuss and offer HCV testing and treatment.