We extend a classical model of continuous opinion formation to explicitly include an age-structured population. We begin by considering a stochastic differential equation model which incorporates ageing dynamics and birth/death processes, in a bounded confidence type opinion formation model. We then derive and analyse the corresponding mean field partial differential equation and compare the complex dynamics on the microscopic and macroscopic levels using numerical simulations. We rigorously prove the existence of stationary states in the mean field model, but also demonstrate that these stationary states are not necessarily unique. Finally, we establish connections between this and other existing models in various scenarios.

In multiparty systems, parties signal conflict through communication, yet standard approaches to measuring partisan conflict in communication consider only the verbal dimension. We expand the study of partisan conflict to the nonverbal dimension by developing a measure of conflict signaling based on variation in a speaker’s expressed emotional arousal, as indicated by changes in vocal pitch. We demonstrate our approach using comprehensive audio data from parliamentary debates in Denmark spanning more than two decades. We find that arousal reflects prevailing patterns of partisan polarization and predicts subsequent legislative behavior. Moreover, we show that consistent with a strategic model of behavior, arousal tracks the electoral and policy incentives faced by legislators. All results persist when we account for the verbal content of speech. By documenting a novel dimension of elite communication of partisan conflict and providing evidence for the strategic use of nonverbal signals, our findings deepen our understanding of the nature of elite partisan communication.

Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death globally, with growing evidence that humanitarian emergencies and fragile states, most of which unfold in low- to middle-income countries (LMICs), are associated with elevated risk of suicide. However, the few suicide-targeted interventions for use in humanitarian contexts remain both sparse and fragmented. This scoping review aims to identify and synthesise evidence from suicide and self-harm prevention interventions implemented in all types of humanitarian settings, globally, that have been evaluated for their effectiveness in improving suicide and self-harm-related outcomes. We systematically searched eight electronic databases, including two grey literature databases, and relevant organisational websites for records published through November 2024 and in any language. Screening was done using the Covidence platform, with each record independently screened by two reviewers. Among other preselected inclusion criteria, studies must have conducted a quantitative evaluation of the effectiveness of an intervention on improving suicide and self-harm-related outcomes during a humanitarian crisis to be included for data extraction. Data extraction and quality assessment were both conducted by two authors. In all, 6,209 records were screened at the title and abstract phase; 104 were included for full text screening; and 23 studies were included for data extraction. Most studies were conducted during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic (COVID-19), and in high-income countries. Evaluated interventions encompassed various approaches, including psychotherapeutic, practical, and pharmacological assistance, often employing multiple components. The majority targeted the general population, were delivered via remote modalities and relied on mental health specialists for their administration. Overall, 15 (65.2%) interventions were associated with statistically significant positive effects on suicide and or self-harm-related outcomes. Promising approaches include cognitive behavioural therapy-based text services, skills-building programmes, and strategies that foster supportive environments for high-risk individuals. These findings highlight both promising approaches and critical gaps in suicide prevention efforts in humanitarian settings. The limited evidence base – particularly in LMICs and with particularly at-risk populations – alongside the increasing frequency of humanitarian crises, underscores the urgent need for future implementation and associated research of suicide and self-harm prevention initiatives within humanitarian contexts.

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a serious health threat and strains of TB resistant to first-line therapies account for significant TB-related morbidity and mortality. Widely recognized as a disease of poverty concentrated in low- and middle-income countries, drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) is a result of deep-seated deprivation and the shortcomings of under-resourced health systems. Traditionally, the response to TB, and particularly DR-TB, has been focused on dealing with the infection and preventing onward transmission, for example, through isolating people with TB in sanatoria or specialized hospital wards. Recently, activists and policy makers have recognized the need to put people affected by the disease at the center of TB programs, but this is just the beginning of the necessary “just” transition from inequitable and unsustainable approaches to addressing TB to ones that are inclusive, community-centered, and resilient. In this article, we examine antimicrobial resistance in TB and highlight the need for a multisectoral, justice-oriented approach that goes beyond biomedical paradigms—we propose a “just” transition that addresses the unequal burden of human suffering and injustices that have become systemic in TB programs. We see a “just transition” as involving long-term structural changes to technologies, policy, infrastructure, scientific knowledge, and practice.