Research on the trials that test new treatments in patients. Covers trial design, respiratory and cancer trials, screening tools, and treatment breakthroughs.
Prazosin, a low-cost FDA-approved alpha blocker, shows promise in reducing the risk of death from COVID-19-associated hyperinflammation by targeting cytokine storm syndrome. Early clinical trials are recommended to confirm its safety and effectiveness.
The Harmony TPV Pivotal Trial demonstrated favorable outcomes for the use of TPV device in patients with severe pulmonary regurgitation. The trial showed high procedural success, safety, and favorable device performance, with 100% freedom from procedure-related mortality at 30 days.
The COVID-19 Trial Finder system generates user-specific questionnaires to filter out applicable trials, reducing a large set of potential trials to a handful within 5-6 survey questions.
The Melody transcatheter pulmonary valve (TPV) has demonstrated favorable outcomes for long-term function, safety, and efficacy in congenital patients. At 10-year follow-up, the study found high freedom rates from all-cause mortality, surgical reintervention, and catheter intervention.
A new study has shown that patients with intermediate left main coronary artery disease are at a higher risk of cardiovascular events compared to those without the condition. The ISCHEMIA trial sub study found no significant difference in outcomes between invasive and conservative strategies for these patients.
Researchers conducted a two-center trial of autologous CD34+ cell therapy in 20 NOCAD patients with persistent angina, showing significant improvement in coronary flow reserve, angina frequency, and quality of life. The results demonstrate the potential of CD34+ cell therapy as a promising therapy for CMD patients with angina and NOCAD.
The NIH is sponsoring a Phase 2b trial to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin in preventing hospitalization and death from COVID-19. The trial will enroll approximately 2,000 adults across the US with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection.
A Moffitt Cancer Center study found that CAR T-cell therapy, Yescarta, is effective in patients with relapsed/refractory large B cell lymphoma who would not have qualified for clinical trials. The study showed an overall response rate of 82% and durable response rate of 47%, suggesting that these patients can benefit from the therapy.
The HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN) and HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) launched a new clinical trial to study immune responses in SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals. The trial aims to develop antibody assays for reliable detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection, which will aid in the development and testing of a safe and effective vaccine.
The trial found that reduced postoperative radiation therapy in intermediate-risk patients with HPV+ oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma is safe and effective, with very good oncologic outcomes. Patients at low risk had favorable two-year progression-free survival without postoperative therapy.
Novotech was recognized for its expertise in Asia-Pacific and commitment to meeting customer needs. The CRO won awards in key categories including Compatibility, Capabilities, Quality, and Reliability.
The authors propose a strategic approach to research and development that would generate essential data for multiple vaccine candidates in parallel. They emphasize the need for unprecedented cooperation from governments, academic institutions, industry, and philanthropic partners to develop COVID-19 vaccines.
The NIH is enrolling hospitalized adults with COVID-19 in a trial testing the safety and efficacy of remdesivir plus anti-inflammatory drug baricitinib. Patients who received remdesivir had a statistically significant shorter time to recovery compared to those on placebo.
A team of researchers argues that repurposing existing medicines for COVID-19 treatment could be a rapid alternative to vaccine development. The focus is on targeting key proteins on cell surfaces, such as ACE2 and TMPRSS2, with approved or clinical trial drugs like remdesivir.
A face-aging mobile app reduced UV exposure awareness in Brazilian teens, increasing sunscreen use and protective behaviors.
A $10 million grant enables the Murdoch Children's Research Institute's clinical trial of the BCG vaccine against COVID-19 to expand to 10,000 healthcare workers across Australia and Europe. The BRACE trial aims to test whether the BCG vaccine can protect those exposed to SARS-CoV-2 from developing severe symptoms.
The Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute at UC San Diego has received a five-year, $54.7 million Clinical and Translational Science Award from the National Institutes of Health. This grant will refine fundamental work and provide new resources to launch a wave of discovery and transformation.
A study of 22,655 patients found that taking a PCSK9 inhibitor with a statin to achieve very low LDL-C levels did not cause increased incidence of neurocognitive impairments, including memory loss or reduction in executive functions. This confirms the safety of intensive LDL-C reduction for high-risk patients.
A new AI-supported test, called DARC, can detect glaucoma progression 18 months earlier than the current gold standard method. The technology involves injecting a fluorescent dye into the bloodstream and illuminating damaged retinal cells using artificial intelligence.
A study of patients with glomerular disease and their caregivers reveals that they highly value kidney function, mortality, and need for dialysis or transplant. They also stress the importance of addressing factors related to life participation, fatigue, anxiety, and family impact.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that cancer patients with no health insurance or Medicaid do not receive the same trial benefits as those with private insurance. The research highlights the importance of expanding insurance coverage to ensure all Americans access life-saving treatments.
New clinical trial in the UK will test bemcentinib's antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2, a potential treatment for early COVID-19 infection. The drug targets AXL, a cell surface receptor used by different enveloped viruses to enter cells.
Researchers say COVID-19 restrictions can be used to increase access to clinical trials for rural populations, who face significant health disparities and limited internet access. By using digital technology and community partnerships, researchers can include more people in studies and promote rural health equity.
A randomized clinical trial investigates the safety and efficacy of two chloroquine diphosphate dosages in patients with severe COVID-19. The study suggests that high-dose chloroquine diphosphate may be effective in treating SARS-CoV-2 infection.
A nationwide trial tests video counseling to help cancer patients quit smoking, addressing a significant public health concern. The study aims to provide evidence for tobacco treatment as standard care in community hospitals and clinics.
The Asia-Pacific region has launched expedited review processes for COVID-19 treatment and vaccine trials, with South Korea offering approval in under 9 days. Novotech is a leading contract research organization (CRO) in the region, supporting vital research with its fast-track services.
A recent trial of a MERS coronavirus vaccine candidate has shown promising results, with the vaccine inducing antibody and T cell responses in nearly all trial subjects. The findings have implications for the development of a vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, with plans to conduct further trials.
A randomized clinical trial found that patients who used smartphone-compatible devices and received video care visits had better blood pressure control after a heart attack. The study suggests that these interventions can help improve patient adherence to guideline-based therapy following a heart attack.
Novotech Research reveals that the top 10 biotech sites in Australia are open for clinical trial activity. The country's favorable environment is supporting clinical research during the global COVID-19 crisis, with many sites modifying their practices to ensure continuity of operations.
A new clinical trial aims to find effective alternative solutions for critically ill COVID-19 patients, reducing the need for treatment with a ventilator and improving patient outcomes. The RECOVERY-RS Respiratory Support trial will compare standard care with non-invasive treatments using masks or high-flow oxygen.
Gimsilumab, targeting granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), may help reduce lung hyper-inflammation in COVID-19 patients with ARDS. A multi-site clinical trial enrolls up to 270 patients to assess mortality and duration of mechanical ventilation.
A novel clinical trial using the REMAP-CAP platform aims to rapidly test multiple treatment approaches for COVID-19. The UPMC-REMAP-COVID19 trial will integrate with electronic health records, allowing doctors to prescribe treatments quickly and efficiently.
Researchers at the University of Montreal are using convalescent plasma to develop a passive immunization program for COVID-19 treatment. The program, which involves transfusing plasma from recovered patients, has shown promise in reducing mortality rates in severe viral pneumonias.
A large randomized clinical trial investigated whether anti-viral drugs used to treat HIV would relieve the symptoms of COVID-19, showing promise for further study. The trial found patients who received lopinavir-ritonavir improved faster and experienced shorter times to clinical improvement, with acceptable safety levels.
A clinical trial is underway to assess the potential treatment of COVID-19-related respiratory failure using the anti-clotting drug tPA. The trial aims to evaluate whether tPA can reduce deaths among patients with severe lung injury, alleviating an expected shortage of ventilators for critically ill patients.
Researchers at Texas A&M University discovered that a majority of fungi associated with cotton can reduce galling caused by the Southern root knot nematode. The study found highly repeatable reductions in gall formation across independent trials, suggesting these fungi may have previously unappreciated positive effects on plant health.
Researchers at UIC are studying the effectiveness of sarilumab and remdesivir as potential COVID-19 treatments in hospitalized patients. The trials aim to determine whether these drugs can provide evidence-based therapeutic options for this highly contagious virus.
The Duke Clinical Research Institute is leading a $50 million study to evaluate hydroxychloroquine as a preventive drug for COVID-19 in healthcare workers. The study, called HERO, aims to assess the impact of the novel coronavirus on healthcare workers' health and examine whether hydroxychloroquine can prevent infections.
A PCORI-funded registry will engage healthcare workers, while a randomized clinical trial will examine HCQ's effectiveness in preventing COVID-19 infections and limiting virus spread. The study aims to provide insights quickly to those who need it most.
A new study funded by PCORI aims to evaluate the effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine in preventing COVID-19 infections in healthcare workers. The study will use the PCORnet network to quickly and efficiently conduct the research, providing insights that can inform prevention strategies for this high-risk population.
Using radial artery instead of saphenous vein reduces death, heart attack and repeat revascularization procedures by 23-38%. Women benefit most from this approach. Further confirmation needed through larger randomized trial.
A medical mystery was solved when a severely ill patient was tested and diagnosed with COVID-19, leading to changes in CDC guidelines. The case highlights the importance of testing and demonstrates that even without clear risk factors or exposure, patients can still be infected.
The SCTR Institute, a Clinical and Translational Award (CTSA) hub, has been awarded $24 million to advance translational research in South Carolina. The institute will partner with various institutions to develop bioinformatics tools, enhance clinical trial recruitment, and improve health outcomes.
In a two-year follow-up, patients undergoing TAVR showed comparable death, stroke, and rehospitalization rates compared to those who underwent open-heart valve replacement surgery, according to the PARTNER 3 trial. However, TAVR had higher rates of valve thrombosis, highlighting the need for further research on the procedure's durability.
In a broad patient population, TAVR showed non-inferiority to open-heart surgery at one year. However, TAVR patients had higher rates of vascular complications and aortic regurgitation.
A new study found that mobile health devices and photoplethysmography technology can reduce stroke risk, rehospitalisation rates, and mortality in patients with atrial fibrillation. The integrated care approach showed significant benefits in managing AF-related adverse events.
A review article published in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy highlights the potential of remdesivir as a treatment for COVID-19. The antiviral has shown effectiveness against a range of coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, with prophylactic treatment preventing clinical disease and viral replication.
Researchers found that the abundance of Lactobacillus iners was associated with clearance of high-risk HPV infections, while Gardnerella bacteria were linked to progression to precancer. Monitoring Gardnerella and microbial diversity could help identify women at risk for pre-cancer.
Vivli has launched a portal for sharing data from completed COVID-19 trials, waiving member and user fees. The move aims to advance knowledge around the pandemic by making data transparently available to all researchers.
Lundbeck contributes clinical trial data from over 2,500 patients to CPAD consortium's integrated database. C-Path and Lundbeck aim to expedite the development of new therapies for Alzheimer's disease through public-private partnerships.
A global review found that fear about testing new treatments and possible side effects is the most common reason for not participating in clinical research. Trust in doctors and clinical staff, as well as a desire to help others, motivated patients to get involved.
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has begun a Phase 1 clinical trial for an investigational COVID-19 vaccine in the Seattle area. The trial is evaluating different doses of the mRNA-1273 vaccine for safety and immune response in healthy adult volunteers.
A randomized clinical trial found that gabapentin, commonly used for nerve pain, was effective in reducing symptoms of alcohol use disorder. The study suggests that this medication may be beneficial for millions of Americans struggling with problem drinking and a history of withdrawal symptoms.
Research reveals bias and stereotyping among healthcare professionals when recruiting patients for cancer clinical trials. The study highlights language barriers, misconceptions, and negative perceptions of minority participants as challenges. Experts call for culturally tailored approaches to address biases in clinical trial recruitment.
A clinical trial found that electrical stimulation improved symptoms in 53% of women with constipation, with lasting benefits for at least 3 months. The treatment was well-tolerated and offered a promising alternative to laxative medications.
A new study by Mayo Clinic researchers found that catheter ablation reduced the risk of death or hospitalization due to worsening heart failure in patients with both conditions. The study analyzed data from over 289,000 patients and showed an 18% reduction in risk for those who received ablation.
Researchers have achieved a groundbreaking milestone in treating inherited blindness by using CRISPR gene editing within the human body. The BRILLIANCE clinical trial aims to repair mutations causing Leber congenital amaurosis type 10, a rare form of blindness. This permanent approach avoids passing on genetic changes to offspring.
A randomized clinical trial in 60 urban workplaces in China found that a wellness program with hypertension management component significantly improved blood pressure control among employees. The program reduced systolic blood pressure by 3.5 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by 2.5 mmHg compared to usual care.
Researchers identified key features and events over four phases of recovery in mice with surgically narrowed arteries, creating signposts for understanding PAD and developing treatments. By using multiple imaging methods, the study aims to facilitate more optimal approaches to treatment and improve diagnosis.
Most clinical trial participants are not informed about the results of studies they participated in, despite wanting this information. Researchers want to share findings but lack effective communication skills to reach lay public. The study highlights the need for better training on communicating research results to study participants.