Newtown

This research aims to evaluate a new delivery method of spinal cord stimulation using the Evoke System for patients with chronic pain in the trunk andor limbs. The study focuses on a novel approach called ECAP-controlled closed-loop spinal cord stimulation, which includes new software and hardware features to better manage pain. The trial is designed as a prospective, multicenter, single-arm feasibility study sponsored by Saluda Medical Pty Ltd. Participants will receive treatment with the Evoke Spinal Cord Stimulation SCS System, which continuously measures and records evoked compound action potentials ECAPs and automatically adjusts the stimulation current to maintain a consistent ECAP amplitude. This closed-loop system aims to provide a more personalized and controlled pain management experience. The study includes only one experimental treatment group using this device. During the study, participants will be closely monitored for changes in ECAPs as measured by the Evoke SCS System through the completion of the study, which can last up to two years. Assessments will focus on the devices performance in controlling pain signals, with ongoing evaluations to track the stability and effectiveness of the stimulation. Participants will provide informed consent and comply with study requirements throughout their involvement.

Researchers are evaluating whether increasing the use of finger-stick point-of-care testing for hepatitis C virus HCV infection improves diagnosis and treatment rates. The study focuses on people at risk for HCV infection, recruited from various settings such as drug treatment clinics, needle and syringe programs, homelessness services, mental health services, prisons, and mobile outreach. This observational cohort study aims to address challenges in HCV elimination caused by reduced treatment uptake and barriers in current diagnostic pathways. Participants will attend a single visit to receive point-of-care HCV testing using finger-stick methods. Testing includes rapid HCV antibody tests, and if positive, further HCV RNA testing is performed to detect active infection. Those with detectable HCV RNA will be linked to standard care for further assessment and treatment outside the study. Participants will complete a self-administered survey during the visit. No treatment is provided as part of this study. During the study, researchers will measure how many participants with active HCV infection start treatment within 12 weeks after testing. They will also evaluate acceptance of testing, prevalence of active infection, treatment initiation timing, treatment completion, and virus clearance rates up to 52 weeks following testing. Data from surveys will be linked to administrative records to assess long-term health outcomes. Participation involves only one study visit for testing and survey completion.