Research on the trials that test new treatments in patients. Covers trial design, respiratory and cancer trials, screening tools, and treatment breakthroughs.
A study published in JACC: CardioOncology found that exercise during chemotherapy improves long-term cardiorespiratory fitness and alleviates adverse effects of cancer treatment. After treatment, an exercise program can recover lost function. The optimal timing of exercise intervention is during chemotherapy.
A new $1.328M grant will help assess and improve the reporting quality in randomized clinical trial protocols and result publications using NLP methods. The goal is to promote high reporting standards, synthesizing evidence, and open science practices throughout the scientific ecosystem.
Researchers at UCalgary have shown that the antibiotic D-Cycloserine (DCS) increases the effectiveness of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for people with major depressive disorder. The combination treatment showed significant benefits, including improved depressive symptoms and anxiety levels.
A landmark study published in The Lancet found that chlorhexidine gluconate and povidone-iodine aqueous solutions are equally effective in preventing surgical site infections in patients with open fractures. This finding has significant implications for healthcare practitioners and may reduce costs associated with accessing these antis...
A randomized clinical trial involving over 1,600 patients found that two antiseptic solutions are equally effective in preventing post-surgical infections. The study provides reassurance to orthopedic surgeons and helps improve practice of evidence-based medicine.
A randomized clinical trial found that targeted health-focused advertisements reduced vaping initiation among US adolescents. The study also showed a decrease in cigarette smoking behaviors among participants.
A randomized clinical trial found that adding sugar warnings and prohibitions on front-of-package claims reduced parents' purchases of high-sugar beverages. However, percentage juice disclosures had no effect on behavior.
A clinical trial begins in the Democratic Republic of Congo to evaluate tecovirimat's safety and effectiveness in treating monkeypox. The trial will enroll up to 450 participants, comparing those who receive tecovirimat to placebo, and gather data on disease severity, mortality, and recovery.
A new approach to allergy treatment has shown promise in reducing symptoms of allergic rhinitis by 36% after just one year of treatment. The combination of a monoclonal antibody with cat allergy shots was found to be more effective than allergy shots alone in providing long-lasting symptom relief.
A landmark surgery using stem cells has been performed on a fetus with spina bifida, aiming to repair the defect before birth. The surgery was successful, and the baby was born healthy with no significant complications.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have developed a gene therapy that rapidly restores night vision in adults with LCA, a common form of congenital blindness. The treatment has been shown to improve rod-based visual functions and correct severe visual deficits in patients.
A large clinical trial found that insulin glargine and liraglutide were superior to other diabetes drugs in controlling blood sugars. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, compared four common medications used to treat type 2 diabetes when added to metformin.
A team of scientists will lead a Phase III trial to examine whether a novel physical rehabilitation intervention can reduce rehospitalizations and mortality in patients hospitalized for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The REHAB-HF program involves strength, balance, endurance, and mobility training exercises tai...
The National Cancer Institute grants Moffitt Cancer Center a five-year, $3.7 million grant to develop digital tools and community outreach strategies to increase education on clinical trials and enrollment among Black and Hispanic patients and physicians in the Tampa Bay area. The goal is to improve health equity by ensuring trial demo...
A large randomized clinical trial demonstrated Octagam 10% as an efficacious and well-tolerated treatment option for adult dermatomyositis patients. The study showed improved outcomes in patients with this rare disease, providing a much-needed treatment alternative.
A novel COVID-19 vaccine developed by Brazilian scientists combines two SARS-CoV-2 proteins to trigger a cellular immune response. The vaccine, called SpiN, showed promise in animal trials, protecting against three strains of the virus and reducing viral load by up to 50 times.
A secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial found that positive patient beliefs about antibiotic effectiveness for appendicitis are linked to lower risk of surgery and faster symptom resolution. This association remains unclear, with further research needed to understand its underlying mechanisms.
A new epigenetics drug, tazemetostat, has been found to stop bladder cancer growth by activating the immune system, not just inhibiting tumors. The drug targets the EZH2 gene and is being tested in clinical trials for late-stage bladder cancer.
A new clinical trial found that the bionic pancreas device was more effective at maintaining blood glucose levels within normal range than standard-of-care management among people with type 1 diabetes. The device requires minimal user input and provides more automation, resulting in improved glycemic control.
A clinical trial conducted by Salk Institute and UC San Diego Health found that time-restricted eating improved measures of health and wellbeing in firefighters. The study showed that a 10-hour eating window reduced VLDL cholesterol, improved mental health, and decreased alcohol intake.
A clinical trial is underway to evaluate the safety and efficacy of bacteriophage therapy in adults with cystic fibrosis who carry Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The trial aims to reduce bacterial load in the lungs using a phage cocktail that targets specific bacteria, providing a potential new treatment for difficult-to-treat infections.
A randomized clinical trial and meta-analysis found that antibiotic eye drops significantly shortened symptoms of conjunctivitis in children. The study's results suggest a promising treatment option for this common childhood condition.
A new study found that fewer Asian, Black, and Hispanic patients qualify for anti-amyloid monoclonal antibody treatments, which may slow Alzheimer's progression. The treatment's effectiveness depends on the presence of amyloid plaques, with lower incidence in minorities.
The Keck School of Medicine of USC's Stevens INI has received a $149 million grant to study Alzheimer’s disease among diverse communities. The HABS-HD study aims to develop biomarkers that determine risk for developing the disease, addressing health disparities among Hispanic and African American populations.
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a decline in marketing payments, while research payments remained stable despite clinical trial suspensions. Pharmaceutical and medical device companies adapted by incorporating virtual study visits and remote outcome measurement.
A clinical trial of email alerts from pharmacists to doctors and other practitioners found no reduction in risky opioid prescribing, highlighting the need for rigorous testing of policies aimed at making opioid prescribing safer. The study tested behavioral science techniques to encourage safer prescribing practices.
A new, shorter combination treatment has been shown to be effective in treating visceral leishmaniasis in Eastern Africa. The treatment, which combines miltefosine and paromomycin, is safer and reduces hospitalization time by 18%, eliminating the need for painful daily injections.
Researchers identified a specific gut bacterium responsible for antibiotic-induced GVHD after stem cell transplants. A sugar supplement was found to improve gut health by distracting the bacteria from attacking mucin in the intestinal lining, reducing complications such as GVHD.
Alzheimer's researchers highlight the need for more diverse participation in clinical trials, citing underrepresentation of African Americans and Latinos. They offer solutions to improve recruitment, including culturally sensitive cognitive tests and partnerships with community organizations.
Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University found that brain stimulation combined with a nose spray containing nanoparticles can improve recovery after ischemic stroke. The treatment increased cognitive and motor functions, and weighed more quickly than those treated with TMS alone.
A USC-led team has found indications for an early breast cancer detection method using high-definition liquid biopsies. The test detected multiple cancer biomarkers, including 'oncosomes,' in the blood samples of most early-stage breast cancer patients.
A cohort study found that endoscopists performing colonoscopies in FIT-based screening programs should aim for markedly higher ADRs compared to primary colonoscopy screening. The study suggests that high ADRs are associated with lower colorectal cancer incidence and mortality. Researchers recommend using ADR targets, including differen...
A phase 3 clinical trial showed tofersen reduces SOD1 and neurofilament light protein levels, slowing down disease progression. Longer-term use may help stabilize muscle strength and control in people with genetic ALS.
Neflamapimod, a p38α kinase inhibitor, demonstrates reversible neurodegeneration in animal models and improves clinical endpoints associated with cholinergic neuronal function in patients with dementia with Lewy bodies. The findings support the initiation of a confirmatory Phase 2b clinical trial for neflamapimod.
Lenabasum has been shown to improve skin symptoms in patients with amyopathic dermatomyositis, demonstrating significant reductions in inflammation and disease severity. The study's findings suggest that lenabasum is a well-tolerated treatment option for refractory skin disease.
A randomized clinical trial found that protein restriction diets can lead to weight loss, improved blood sugar and lipid levels, and controlled blood pressure. The study involved 21 patients with metabolic syndrome, who were given either a calorie or protein restriction diet for 27 days.
Researchers from Temple University Health System developed a device that significantly reduces blood clot size in pulmonary arteries, leading to improved heart function and shorter treatment duration. The breakthrough is based on data collected in the NIH-sponsored RESCUE trial.
A randomized trial found that a 12-week online yoga program improved knee function in participants, but did not significantly reduce knee pain during walking. The study suggests that unsupervised online yoga programs can be feasible and improve physical function, but more research is needed to sustain the effectiveness.
The PASCAL transcatheter valve repair system showed non-inferiority compared to MitraClip in treating significant symptomatic DMR. Patients experienced improvements in functional and quality-of-life outcomes.
A study using STS/ACC TVT Registry data found that most patients with severe mitral regurgitation (MR) and cardiogenic shock who underwent TEER achieved successful MR reduction, with associated lower mortality and heart failure hospitalizations at one year. Device success was linked to improved survival rates in a high-risk population.
The September issue of CHEST journal features 40 articles on clinically relevant topics, including disparities in rural populations with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The journal also offers complementary web and multimedia activities to expand its reach.
Researchers have developed a malaria vaccine candidate that is safe and immunogenic in adults, offering improved protection against the disease. The vaccine combines FMP013 antigen with ALFQ adjuvant, which displays promising immune-enhancing effects.
A recent study published in Ear, Nose & Throat Journal found that twice-daily nasal irrigation with saline solution significantly reduced hospitalizations and deaths among patients with COVID-19, particularly those aged 55 and older. The technique is safe, effective, and inexpensive, offering a vital public health impact.
In an international clinical trial, 63.3% of patients with stage II-IV cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma saw their tumors nearly or completely disappear when treated with immunotherapy before surgery. The anti-PD1 therapy cemiplimab was well-tolerated and met its primary endpoint with a pathologic complete response rate of 50.6%.
A phase 2 study found that combining nivolumab and ipilimumab showed a high response rate with durable results for patients with advanced Merkel cell carcinoma. The addition of stereotactic body radiation therapy did not improve efficacy in this dual checkpoint inhibitor therapy.
Weekly injections of semaglutide reduce type 2 diabetes risk by over 60%, mirroring significant weight loss. Sustained treatment is necessary to maintain the benefit.
Researchers found that starting pembrolizumab before surgery significantly improves the outlook for patients with stage III-IV melanoma. The study showed a 42% lower event rate in patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy compared to those receiving adjuvant therapy.
The DeFi trial shows targeting the Notch pathway with nirogacestat improves progression-free survival and reduces symptoms in patients with desmoid tumours. Patients reported a statistically significant benefit in reduced pain, symptom burden, and improved quality of life.
Scientists have discovered a link between air pollution and lung cancer in people who have never smoked. Exposure to particulate matter (PM2.5) has been shown to promote cancerous changes in airway cells with EGFR and KRAS gene mutations, driving them towards a cancer stem cell-like state.
A Phase 3 clinical trial is enrolling adults and children with monkeypox infection in the US to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tecovirimat (TPOXX). The trial aims to gather data on lesion healing, pain scores, disease progression, and safety.
A randomized phase III trial found that combination hormonal therapy, delivered for a finite treatment interval of 12 months, more durably suppresses PSA levels compared to hormone injections alone. The treatment approach improved disease progression in patients with high-risk biochemically relapsed prostate cancer.
The PROSPER RCC trial showed no difference in recurrence-free survival between arms, with higher adverse events reported in the nivolumab arm. The trial's results inform future research on neoadjuvant trials in high-risk renal cell carcinoma.
A clinical trial evaluating alternative strategies for administering the JYNNEOS monkeypox vaccine has begun enrolling adult volunteers. The trial aims to expand the vaccine supply and provide important information on immunogenicity, safety, and tolerability of alternative dosing approaches.
Two large clinical trials found that vitamin D supplements did not reduce the risk of covid-19 or acute respiratory infections, contradicting previous studies' mixed results. The trials involved over 30,000 adults and showed no effect of vitamin D supplementation on infection rates or side effects.
A new study published in The Lancet shows that telemedicine can provide safe and effective abortion services without routine ultrasound exams. Women who received telemedicine care had treatment results similar to those who received standard care, and preferred the option.
A targeted kinase inhibitor added to a two-drug immunotherapy combination slowed the progression of advanced kidney cancer in previously untreated patients. The three-drug combination showed a 27% lower risk of progression or death compared to the two-drug control, with a median progression-free survival of 11.3 months.
Researchers are exploring the use of electrical spinal cord stimulation to help people with spinal cord injuries regain some movement. The study will investigate how the central nervous system changes in response to stimulation and exercise, with the goal of developing more effective rehabilitation strategies.
A randomized controlled trial found that both BVLR and surgery lead to significant improvements in lung function, breathlessness, and exercise capacity. The study suggests that less invasive BVLR may be a good therapeutic option for suitable patients, offering a similar outcome to traditional surgery.
A phase II study found that treating late-stage, treatment-resistant melanoma patients with a combination of Azacitidine and Carboplatin significantly increases their survival times. The treatment re-sensitized cancer cells to immunotherapy, allowing the body's immune system to fight the cancer.
A novel stem cell-gene therapy has been shown to be safe in humans, with no serious side effects reported in the first trial. The treatment targets motor neurons that die in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neurological disorder.