Improvement in prediction of antigenic epitopes using stacked generalisation: an ensemble approach

Mapping Potential Malaria Vector Larval Habitats for Larval Source Management in Western Kenya: Introduction to Multimodel Ensembling Approaches

Identification and mapping of larval sources are a prerequisite for effective planning and implementing mosquito larval source management (LSM). Ensemble modeling is increasingly used for prediction modeling, but it lacks standard procedures. We proposed a detailed framework to predict potential malaria vector larval habitats by using multimodel ensemble modeling, which includes selection of models, ensembling method, and predictors, evaluation of variable importance, prediction of potential larval habitats, and assessment of prediction uncertainty. The models were built and validated based on multisite, multiyear field observations and climatic/environmental variables. Model performance was tested using independent field observations. Overall, we found that the ensembled model predicted larval habitats with about 20% more accuracy than the average of the individual models ensembled. Key larval habitat predictors in western Kenya were elevation, geomorphon class, and precipitation for the 2 months prior. Additional predictors may be required to increase the predictive accuracy of the larva-positive habitats. This is the first study to provide a detailed framework for the process of multimodel ensemble modeling for malaria vector habitats. Mapping of potential habitats will be helpful in LSM planning.

Peptide-Based Vaccines for Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. As a result of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the global TB mortality rate in 2020 is rising, making TB prevention and control more challenging. Vaccination has been considered the best approach to reduce the TB burden. Unfortunately, BCG, the only TB vaccine currently approved for use, offers some protection against childhood TB but is less effective in adults. Therefore, it is urgent to develop new TB vaccines that are more effective than BCG. Accumulating data indicated that peptides or epitopes play essential roles in bridging innate and adaptive immunity and triggering adaptive immunity. Furthermore, innovations in bioinformatics, immunoinformatics, synthetic technologies, new materials, and transgenic animal models have put wings on the research of peptide-based vaccines for TB. Hence, this review seeks to give an overview of current tools that can be used to design a peptide-based vaccine, the research status of peptide-based vaccines for TB, protein-based bacterial vaccine delivery systems, and animal models for the peptide-based vaccines. These explorations will provide approaches and strategies for developing safer and more effective peptide-based vaccines and contribute to achieving the WHO’s End TB Strategy.