AI spots hidden signs of depression in students’ facial expressions; CDC updates HIV exposure guidelines; health habits slow memory decline – Morning Medical Update

Morning Medical Update © kwanchaichaiudom - stock.adobe.com

AI spots hidden signs of depression in students’ facial expressions

Researchers at Waseda University in Shinjuku, Japan, have developed an artificial intelligence (AI) tool that identifies subtle eye and mouth movements linked to early depressive symptoms in college students, according to a study published in Scientific Reports. Using facial analysis software, the team found that students with sub-threshold depression — mild symptoms that raise future risk — showed micro-expressions that peers perceived as less friendly and expressive, though not overly negative. AI-powered screening could provide a non-invasive way to flag early mental health concerns in both schools and workplaces.

CDC updates HIV exposure guidelines for health care workers

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued new Public Health Services guidelines for managing occupational HIV exposure, published in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology. The 2025 update adds streamlined protocols, including newer antiretroviral regimens with fewer side effects, shorter follow-up testing timelines and the removal of routine lab monitoring when baseline results are normal. The guidance also addresses scenarios involving source patients with undetectable viral loads and health care personnel already on pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).

Healthy habits could slow memory decline

Up to 45% of dementia risk may be tied to modifiable lifestyle factors, and adopting healthier habits could help prevent or slow cognitive decline, according to a commentary from Florida Atlantic University (FAU), published in The American Journal of Medicine. Researchers highlighted results from large U.S. and Finnish trials showing that structured interventions, including exercise, healthy diets, cognitive stimulation and social engagement, improved memory and executive function in older adults at risk for cognitive decline.