Articles tagged with Clinical Trials
The Edmonton Protocol clinical trial demonstrates islet transplantation as a promising procedure for managing severe Type 1 Diabetes, achieving insulin independence in 44% of recipients and improved blood sugar control. However, long-term sustainability varies, highlighting the need for continued research into this therapy.
A study analyzing 45 years of stroke research found that 75% of unpublished studies had negative or harmful results, while only 6% of published studies shared this outcome. The findings support the need for registering all clinical studies before they begin to prevent publication bias.
A clinical trial has demonstrated the efficacy of an H9N2 avian flu vaccine combined with an adjuvant in generating a strong antibody response in humans. The results suggest that even low doses of the vaccine can provide protection, making it a promising tool in pandemic prevention.
Researchers found that tailored dietary advice delivered through an internet shopping system led to participants buying foods lower in saturated fat. This study demonstrates the potential of low-cost technologies to motivate users to change their behavior.
A promising new TB drug candidate, SQ109, has been cleared for Phase I clinical trials following a successful public-private partnership between NIAID and Sequella. Developed with extensive support from NIAID, SQ109 holds potential for treating the virtually untreatable disease XDR-TB.
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has developed a new statistical technique that enables researchers to statistically analyze results of clinical trials without traditional control groups. This novel approach allows for the early adoption of new treatments and validates the use of interim analyses in clinical trials.
Children with 'callous-unemotional' temperament show a lack of empathy and guilt about their actions, making them less responsive to traditional discipline. Researchers found that increasing punishment can exacerbate behavioral problems in these children, who respond better to incentives and rewards.
A pivotal clinical trial has found idursulfase effective in treating underlying enzyme deficiency in patients with Hunter syndrome. Weekly infusions of the enzyme replacement drug have been shown to improve symptoms such as joint stiffness, breathing difficulties, and coarsening of facial features.
A Hopkins study shows that combining curcumin and quercetin greatly reduces the size and number of colorectal polyps in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis. The average number of polyps dropped 60.4 percent, and the average size dropped by 50.9 percent.
A recent study published in Resuscitation found that confusion is a major obstacle for CPR volunteers when responding to medical emergencies, rather than stress. The researchers surveyed 1,243 laypeople trained in CPR and found that practical issues such as crowd control and skill performance were more concerning than emotions.
Recruitment incentives have grown due to competition among research sponsors, offering substantial finder's fees. This raises concerns about physician judgment, patient safety, and public trust in clinical research. The issues cannot be resolved by sanctioning individuals, but rather require broader institutional and regulatory reform.
Researchers have developed a system that enables people with severe paralysis to generate signals in the motor cortex of their brain, which can be detected and converted into actions. Two patients, Matthew Nagle and a 55-year-old man, successfully controlled computers and even opened prosthetic hands using only their thoughts.
Researchers developed a brain-to-movement system called BrainGate, which enabled a paralyzed man to control objects using only his thoughts. The pilot clinical trial findings show that movement signals persist in the primary motor cortex long after a spinal cord injury, allowing for direct and successful control of external devices.
A recent meta-analysis found that COPD patients taking beta-agonist inhalers are at a higher risk of respiratory deaths compared to those using anticholinergics. The study suggests that anticholinergics should be the bronchodilator of choice in COPD treatment.
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has announced the leadership for its newly restructured HIV/AIDS clinical trials networks. The six networks will focus on high-priority research areas, including developing an effective HIV vaccine and conducting translational research for new drug development.
Two studies evaluate health effects of dental amalgam fillings in children, finding no detectable loss of intelligence or kidney function. Children with mercury exposure showed low and stable levels without correlation to symptoms.
Researchers have developed a radioactive version of scorpion venom that targets and kills glioma cells, offering a promising new treatment for high-grade brain cancer. The therapy involves injecting the compound into patients, which releases radiation to kill the tumor cells.
The TEMPO extension trial found that adding Enbrel to methotrexate improved clinical remission rates, reduced disease activity, and enhanced quality of life among patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The study showed significant benefits in patients who had not achieved adequate response with methotrexate monotherapy.
A study of 165 medical practices found that participating in a pharmaceutical company-sponsored clinical trial had no effect on physicians' adherence to international treatment guidelines. In fact, trial-conducting practices showed increased use of the sponsor's inhaled corticosteroids.
A large randomized trial found no evidence of strong protective effect of fish oil on ventricular arrhythmia in patients with ICDs. Event-free survival did not substantially improve in the fish oil group, contrary to previous studies.
A study found that manual chest compressions were more effective than automated devices in treating out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. The research, published in JAMA, also showed that the device associated with worse neurological outcomes in survivors.
A study found that repeat doses of prenatal corticosteroids can reduce respiratory distress syndrome and severe lung disease in premature babies. The treatment also showed fewer need for oxygen therapy and help with breathing.
The SUPREMO trial will investigate the benefits of postoperative radiotherapy after mastectomy in women at intermediate risk of breast cancer recurrence. The study aims to identify a molecular signature that can refine selection for radiotherapy and explore its impact on quality of life.
A study by Duke University Medical Center found that telephone counseling can improve the quality of life for patients waiting for a lung transplant, reducing emotional distress and anxiety. The researchers believe this approach could be useful for patients with chronic diseases who cannot access face-to-face counseling due to distance...
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that patients who receive randomly assigned treatments in clinical trials have similar health outcomes as those receiving individualized treatment. The researchers analyzed data from 25 trials involving nearly 18,000 patients and found no significant differences in health outcomes between th...
A survey of 228 women found that 33% initially misunderstood the results and 24% became more anxious after learning their status. However, 39% reported a decrease in anxiety, highlighting the need for clear communication about clinical trial results.
A study found that exercise alone can reverse negative effects of inactivity on cardiovascular health, with moderate intensity exercise showing significant benefits. The research suggests that even a small amount of physical activity can reduce risks for developing conditions like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Tramiprosate (Alzhemed) shows promising results by binding to soluble Aβ peptide, reducing cell death and plasma Aβ levels. The compound also demonstrates low toxicity while crossing the blood-brain-barrier.
A novel therapeutic approach has been discovered by the University of Manchester team, using a DNA-binding protein to stimulate genes and promote nerve growth. The preclinical results have been encouraging, with initial-stage clinical trials in the US showing promising progress in managing diabetic neuropathy.
Two surgical interventions, primary peritoneal drainage and laparotomy, were compared in a clinical trial involving 117 preterm infants with perforated NEC. The study found that the type of operation performed did not influence survival or other clinically important outcomes.
Researchers have identified new biomarkers that correlate with patient response to anti-TNFá therapy, improving the treatment of spondylarthritis. The study found changes in synovial tissue features, such as macrophage and PMN cell changes, associated with disease activity and treatment effectiveness.
A new analysis of ACT trials found that UC patients in clinical remission had significantly higher rates of employment compared to those not in remission. Patients treated with REMICADE experienced a greater percentage of being employed at weeks 30 and 54, with 20.6% vs 8.3% for non-remitted patients.
Phase II and phase III clinical trials demonstrate DAYTRANA's effectiveness in reducing ADHD symptoms, including improvements in behavior and classroom performance. The patch formulation provides a once-daily treatment option for children aged 6-12 with ADHD.
The MIT 'seeing machine' allows visually challenged people to see images, videos, and text through a desktop device. In a pilot clinical trial, 60% of participants accurately interpreted visual language and navigated a virtual environment with the help of the device.
The new open-access journal aims to increase the accuracy and completeness of evidence available for clinical decision-making. All randomized trials are rigorously peer-reviewed and reported accurately, regardless of outcome.
A study analyzed 324 cardiovascular clinical trials published between 2000 and 2005, finding that for-profit trials were more likely to report positive findings than not-for-profit trials. The authors suggest that incentives from for-profit organizations may influence trial outcomes, leading to biased results.
A large randomized clinical trial found no association between selenium supplementation and reduced risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, or cardiovascular deaths. The study of 1,004 participants in low-selenium areas showed no difference in endpoints based on baseline selenium levels.
A study estimated the costs and benefits of 28 US NIH-funded phase III clinical trials, finding a total cost of $335 million and a projected net benefit of over $15 billion at 10 years. The trials led to significant improvements in public health.
A study analyzing NINDS-supported clinical trials found a 4600% return on investment and estimated benefits of over $50 billion. The studies improved health outcomes and saved lives, with some trials showing benefits of over $6 billion.
A recent study found that moderate doses of steroids given to patients with late-stage ARDS did not improve survival rates. However, the treatment did reduce lung inflammation and allowed patients to wean off mechanical ventilators earlier. The study's results suggest caution when treating patients with late-stage ARDS with steroids.
Researchers conducted two large studies on children with dental amalgam fillings and found no adverse health effects. Despite initial concerns about mercury poisoning, the studies concluded that children exposed to amalgam had low levels of mercury in their urine and no measurable signs of damage to the brain or kidneys.
A study analyzing 551 men with prostate cancer found that a 30% decline in serum PSA levels within three months of treatment can reduce the risk of death by at least 50%. The researchers suggest that PSAs could be used as reliable endpoint measures for prostate cancer treatment efficacy.
A study of postmenopausal women found that those taking conjugated equine estrogens (CEE) had a lower rate of invasive breast cancer, total breast cancer, and localized disease compared to placebo group. CEE also showed a decrease in the risk of ductal carcinomas, but not lobular disease.
Women taking estrogen had fewer breast cancer tumors, but the difference was not statistically significant. Participants also underwent more mammograms and biopsies, which may be related to changes in breast tissue.
The study showed that SB-509 was safe and well-tolerated, with no dose-limiting toxicities observed. Improvements in pain, numbness, and neurological symptoms were seen in approximately 50% of patients, with significant anecdotal improvements reported in neurologic exam scores and electrophysiologic testing.
Honey's antibacterial quality rapidly clears existing infection, while also protecting wounds from additional infections. The sweetener stimulates the growth of granulation and epithelial tissues to speed up the healing process.
Patients with relapsing forms of MS taking Betaseron experienced a sustained 40% reduction in annual relapse rates over 16 years. Long-term treatment showed slower disease progression, with those on therapy reaching EDSS 6.0 after a median time of 13 years.
A long-term follow-up study found no evidence of poorer outcomes in children who received CNEP, a treatment for respiratory distress syndrome. In fact, the CNEP group had higher language and visual/spatial skills compared to those receiving standard ventilation support.
The Duke study aims to determine whether a modified form of the investigational bird flu vaccine can trigger a strong immune response at lower doses. The seven-month trial will test varying strengths of the H5N1 vaccine, either with or without an aluminum hydroxide adjuvant.
The H5N1 avian flu vaccine has shown promise in inducing immune responses in healthy adults. Among the 99 participants who received the high-dose vaccine, 54% developed neutralizing antibodies to the vaccine at a serum dilution of 1:40 or greater.
A study at Oregon Health & Science University found that stroke patients who received electrical stimulation therapy showed significant improvement in hand mobility and strength compared to those receiving rehabilitation alone. The therapy, which induces neural plasticity, helps patients regain lost functions.
A landmark trial found that carotid stenting significantly reduces the risk of stroke in asymptomatic patients with carotid artery disease, with a lower rate of major complications compared to medical therapy. The study also showed better outcomes for younger patients and no increased risk of undetected complications.
The MIST trial studied patients with severe, frequent migraines and a medium-to-large PFO, randomly assigning them to PFO closure or sham intervention. Results showed promise for PFO closure as a treatment option for relieving migraines.
The study demonstrates that carotid artery stenting with formalized training has outcomes comparable to the pivotal SAPPHIRE trial. Preliminary data indicates a low stroke rate of 3.6% at 30 days for patients treated by trained physicians.
A pilot study found valproic acid slows cognitive decline in HIV-related dementia, with potential applications for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. The treatment targets neuro-inflammation, a key factor in neurodegeneration.
Studies investigate homocysteine lowering and cardiovascular event rates, revealing high risks for patients with atherothrombosis. Researchers explore new treatment approaches, including bone marrow mobilization, to improve exercise capacity and prevent complications.
A multicenter trial found sirolimus-eluting stents to be more effective than vascular brachytherapy (VBT) in treating restenosis within a stent. The study showed significant differences in major adverse cardiac events, target lesion revascularization rates, and target vessel failure rates.
A large randomized trial of over 8,300 women with low dietary calcium found that calcium supplements significantly reduced severe preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, and preterm delivery. Calcium supplementation also led to a lower risk of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.
Researchers at Yale are expanding a study using magnetic stimulation to treat schizophrenia, including a new trial with 90 patients. The treatment involves TMS, which modestly reduces the capacity of neurons to activate each other and may curb hallucinations.
Two Stanford University neurologists warn that clinical trials can be disastrous when a drug with unknown side effects is tested on healthy patients. They advocate for stricter entry criteria to prevent similar mistakes in the future.