Recent Submissions

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    Radicals in flip subalgebras of Matsuo algebras
    Rodrigues, Bernardo Gabriel; Shpectorov, S. (Springer, 2026-04)
    We develop methods for determining key properties (simplicity and the dimension of radical) of flip subalgebras in Matsuo algebras. These are interesting classes of commutative non-associative algebras that were introduced within the broader paradigm of axial algebras.
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    Radio activity from the rapidly rotating T dwarf 2MASS 2228-4310
    Wandia, Kelvin; Garrett, Michael A.; Golden, Aaron; Hallinan, Gregg; Williams-Baldwin, David; Lucatelli, Geferson; Beswick, Robert J.; Radcliffe, Jack Frederick; Siemion, Andrew; Myburgh, Talon (Oxford University Press, 2026-03)
    Please read abstract in the article.
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    Rapid commercial CTX-M diagnostics : performance, limitations and clinical impact
    Aldeia, Claudia; Peirano, Gisele; Pitout, Johann D.D.; Endimiani, Andrea (Springer, 2026-02)
    CTX-M enzymes account for more than 90% of all extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) identified in Enterobacterales. Therefore, rapid identification of these enzymes could improve clinical outcomes in patients infected or colonized by such pathogens. In this review, we described the characteristics and limitations of commercially available rapid tests for detecting CTX-M proteins (lateral flow immunoassays) or blaCTX−M genes (microarrays, quantitative PCR, or loop-mediated isothermal amplification). Additionally, we summarized and discussed their potential clinical impact. Some commercial CTX-M assays - particularly those analyzing aliquots from positive blood cultures (i.e., Verigene, BioFire FilmArray, ePlex) - demonstrated clear advantages over standard-of-care methods, shortening the interval to effective therapy and improving overall patient outcomes. However, the widespread adoption of these rapid assays in routine laboratories remains limited due to several factors, including high costs and the lack of robust evidence supporting their positive impact. To address these implementation challenges, laboratories should focus on a defined patient subgroup in whom the application of these assays is likely to yield the greatest clinical impact. In particular, we propose that all laboratories at least perform rapid CTX-M assays on all Gram-negative-positive blood cultures (including those with sterile fluids) obtained from critically ill patients, such as ICU-patients with septic shock. This strategy is best when accompanied by active communication between the laboratory and key stakeholders in patient management. Providing rapid results for this subpopulation of patients may facilitate timely initiation of appropriate therapy and ultimately improve patient outcomes.
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    Reconceptualising social (in)justice for research in rural South African schools : the roles of space, place and collective response
    Higham, Rupert; Mills, Martin; Ebersohn, L. (Liesel) (Routledge, 2026)
    Many theories of social justice overlook the importance of space and place. In analysing education in the rural Global South, they do not capture the complexity and situatedness of issues such as cultural and linguistic hierarchies in the language of instruction, and rural flight and individual life trajectories. We propose a new theoretical framework for understanding (in)justice, developed through a project to improve children’s literacy and wellbeing through community engagement in primary schools in rural South Africa. We argue that combining structural, agential and spatial perspectives and incorporating the indigenous theory of ‘flocking’, will help us better hear and understand the distinctive experiences of rural children and adults, and support their agency in addressing the injustices and opportunities they face.
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    Reasons for hesitancy and acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination among the Congolese population : a scoping review
    Lobukulu Lolimo, Genese; Khonde, Rodrigue; Matondo, Herve; Kabele, Junias; Yannick, K. Musawu; Beshah, Senait Alemayehu; Achala, Daniel Malik; Njeri Muriithi, Grace; Adote, Elizabeth Naa Adukwei; Zegeye, Elias Asfaw; Mbachu, Chinyere Ojiugo;; Ataguba, John Ele-Ojo; Yaya Bocoum, Fadima Inna Kamina; Manitu, Serge Mayaka (Frontiers Media, 2026-02-17)
    INTRODUCTION : Despite over 9.6 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses administered globally, vaccination access remains highly unequal. North America and Western Europe have over 50% vaccination coverage, contrasting sharply with African nations, like the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has under 10%. This scoping review explores the key factors contributing to the low COVID-19 vaccination rate in the Congolese population. METHODS : We conducted a scoping review using the Arksey and O'Malley framework, searching PubMed, ProQuest, and Scopus databases for peer-reviewed manuscripts published between 2019 and 2023. Six studies met the inclusion criteria, and focused on the factors of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance, hesitancy, and access in the DRC. RESULTS : Although surveys indicated a high willingness on the part of the people to get vaccinated, only 2.7% of the population were fully vaccinated. The primary barrier to vaccination was safety concerns, specifically, perceptions of the vaccine as new and experimental (84.4%) and fear of side effects (83.3%). Additional hesitancy factors included mistrust in vaccine effectiveness (60.4%) and a general lack of confidence (60.0%). Facilitators of acceptance included prior family vaccination, perceived risk of infection, belief in the existence of the virus, and awareness of vaccination strategies. Sociodemographic factors such as being a healthcare professional or male also positively influenced uptake. DISCUSSION : These findings highlight the gap between vaccine willingness and actual coverage in the DRC. Addressing safety concerns and building trust through targeted outreach, especially among key professional groups, may improve vaccine acceptance and equity.