This project develops an integrated framework for estimating international migration flows in the Asia-Pacific region, a context where migration remains significant yet poorly measured. Traditional data sources such as censuses and surveys are often outdated, inconsistent, or unavailable. To overcome these limitations, we combine conventional migration statistics with digital trace data from social media platforms to generate timely estimates of migrant stocks across regional corridors. By applying a Bayesian hierarchical modelling approach tailored to the Asia-Pacific region, the research addresses core challenges such as underreporting and definitional discrepancies. In collaboration with the Asia–Pacific Regional Office of the International Organisation for Migration, this work aims to strengthen regional capacity for migration monitoring and evidence-based policymaking.

Cognitive function is essential to maintaining independence and quality of life. Two neurocognitive biomarkers, neurofilament light and tau, are positively associated with elevated dementia risks. Existing evidence suggests cognitive function to have multidimensional determinants, and genome-wide association studies have demonstrated genetic factors to contribute to heterogeneity in both cognitive function and behavioural factors. Add Health is a longitudinal study that has prospectively followed a nationally representative sample of adolescents into early midlife. This cohort study has compiled polygenic risk scores for various phenotypes in young adulthood (Wave IV) and novel biomarkers of immune and cognitive functions in early mid-adulthood (Wave V). No research has examined the potential interplay between genetic factors and other determinants, and the underlying pathways in the long-term genetic effects on cognitive function remain unclear. The proposed project will utilize Add Health data to elucidate the multidimensional determinants of cognitive health in early mid-adulthood in three studies. The results of the proposed studies will link cognitive function and biomarkers with determinants across the genetic, biopsychosocial, behavioural, lifestyle, and environmental domains. Our multidisciplinary approach will provide valuable insights on early detection of cognitive decline, facilitating targeted interventions to ameliorate the risks of subsequent neurodegenerative diseases.

(Supported by the HKU RHPS Seed Grant Scheme for Research on Population Studies)

(Supported by the HKU RHPS Seed Grant Scheme for Research on Population Studies)

(Supported by the HKU RHPS Seed Grant Scheme for Research on Population Studies)

(Supported by the HKU RHPS Seed Grant Scheme for Research on Population Studies)

(Supported by the HKU RHPS Seed Grant Scheme for Research on Population Studies)