Anxiety/Depression Meds May Not Work the Way We Thought
“Until recently, prevailing wisdom held that antidepressants worked by increasing synaptic serotonin in the brain’s mood centers. New findings cast doubt on the role of serotonin, while at the same time implicating inflammation in triggering anxiety and depression. If, as new studies suggest, inflammation plays a pivotal role in mood disorders, the implications for new treatment options are profound.”
Scientists uncovered the structure of the key protein for a future hepatitis C vaccine – here’s how they did it
“One major reason there hasn’t been an HCV vaccine yet is that scientists have yet to identify the proper antigen, or the part of the virus would trigger a protective immune response in the body.”
Diagnostic performance of two non-invasive biomarkers used individually and in sequential combination for cirrhosis associated with hepatitis C virus infection
“This cross-sectional study evaluated the performance of the Aspartate Aminotransferase-to-Platelet Ratio Index (APRI) and the Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) Index when they were used individually and in sequential combination to diagnose cirrhosis associated with hepatitis C virus infection.”
Hepatitis C prevalence in incarcerated settings between 2013–2021: a systematic review and meta-analysis
“The introduction of highly effective direct-acting antiviral therapy has changed the hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment paradigm. However, a recent update on HCV epidemiology in incarcerated settings is necessary to accurately determine the extent of the problem, provide information to policymakers and public healthcare, and meet the World Health Organization’s goals by 2030. This systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to determine the prevalence of HCV Ab and RNA in incarcerated settings.”
Who Remains at Risk for Liver Cancer After Hepatitis C Is Cured?
“People who are cured of hepatitis C have a much lower likelihood of developing liver cancer, but their risk does not fall to zero. The incidence of liver cancer declines over time after successful treatment, but some people remain at risk and can benefit from screening, researchers reported at the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) Liver Meeting.”