The Constrained Disorder Principle May Account for Consciousness.

There is still controversy surrounding the definition and mechanisms of consciousness. The constrained disorder principle (CDP) defines complex systems by their dynamic borders, limiting their inherent disorder. In line with the CDP, the brain exhibits a disorder bounded by dynamic borders essential for proper function, efficient energy use, and life support under continuous perturbations. The brain's inherent variability contributes to its adaptability and flexibility. Neuronal signal variability challenges the association of brain structures with consciousness and methods for assessing consciousness. The present paper discusses some theories about consciousness, emphasizing their failure to explain the brain's variability. This paper describes how the CDP accounts for consciousness's variability, complexity, entropy, and uncertainty. Using newly developed second-generation artificial intelligence systems, we describe how CDP-based platforms may improve disorders of consciousness (DoC) by accounting for consciousness variability, complexity, entropy, and uncertainty. This platform could be used to improve response to current interventions and develop new therapeutic regimens for patients with DoC in future studies.

Leukocytosis and C-Reactive Protein Levels as Indicators of Infection in Children With Diabetic Ketoacidosis.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is one of the serious complications of type 1 diabetes mellitus and may be aggravated by infection. Diagnosing an infection in a patient with DKA is often complicated because of the overlap of symptoms and the presence of leukocytosis in both conditions. Reliable indicators for the diagnosis of bacterial infection in DKA may reduce unnecessary use of antibiotics and enable closer monitoring of patients at risk. METHODS: This is a retrospective study. The study cohort included 180 children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus who were admitted to the Pediatric Emergency Department at Shaare Zedek Medical Center and had blood test results. We compared white blood cell count, C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, blood glucose levels, pH, the degree of acidosis, and the incidence of infection in patients with and without DKA. RESULTS: The incidence of probable bacterial infection in the entire cohort was 13.9%: 15.7% in the DKA group and 7.5% in the non-DKA group ( P = 0.65). The incidence of leukocytosis was significantly higher in patients with DKA ( P = 0.0003), although this was not related to bacterial infection. The CRP levels were higher in the DKA group with infection than without infection, and this was statistically significant ( P = 0.008). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that leukocytosis in DKA is not a reliable indicator of concomitant bacterial infection. In contrast, CRP levels were not related to the DKA or degree of acidosis and were significantly higher in patients with infection within the DKA group, and are therefore a more reliable indicator of concomitant infection in these patients.