Articles tagged with Controlled Trials
Pragmatic clinical trials compare treatments in everyday clinical settings, but adoption of trial findings has been inconsistent. To address this, the authors propose adaptive trial designs to align trial goals with healthcare system needs. By doing so, they aim to generate evidence that truly improves patient care.
A multi-center phase III trial found photon- and proton-based radiation therapies to be similarly safe and effective in treating low- and intermediate-risk prostate cancer. Patients treated with either IMRT or proton therapy reported no significant differences in quality of life, tumor control, or progression-free survival.
A randomized trial halted after patients in the control arm reached a record high two-year progression-free survival rate of 98%. Deintensified treatments involving lower radiation dose and immunotherapy did not perform as well as standard chemoradiation.
A recent clinical trial found that an IV iron treatment called ferric carboxymaltose works faster and better than oral iron tablets in treating anaemia during pregnancy. The study showed improved haemoglobin levels and iron correction with the IV treatment, with comparable side effects.
Research published in PLOS Medicine found that reducing the serving size for beer, lager and cider in UK pubs resulted in a 9.7% decrease in daily mean volume of beer sold. The study suggests smaller serving sizes could contribute to reducing alcohol consumption and decreasing the risk of various diseases.
A randomized controlled trial found erenumab injections significantly improved medication overuse headache remission rates and reduced acute migraine treatment days in patients with chronic migraine and medication overuse headaches. The study suggests that erenumab can be a simplified treatment option for MOH patients.
A new $4 million grant aims to test auricular point acupressure as a treatment for chronic pain in rural populations. The project, led by UTHealth Houston and USC, will use a smartphone app to guide patients through self-administered ear stimulation.
A new study published in Annals of Oncology found that long-course radiotherapy is safer and more effective than short-course radiotherapy for preserving organs in rectal cancer patients. The treatment was shown to prevent regrowth of the primary tumour, but had similar overall survival rates.
The SURPASS-4 trial found that tirzepatide improved blood glucose control and weight loss in adults with type 2 diabetes. Higher doses of tirzepatide and female patients were associated with better long-term outcomes, including reduced risk of cardiovascular events.
A randomized crossover trial found that restricting eating to an 8-hour window improved daily time spent in normal blood glucose range and reduced fluctuations in blood glucose levels. The benefits were evident within three days, even without restricting calories.
A novel low-dose 3-in-1 blood pressure pill (GMRx2) significantly reduces blood pressure in patients with uncontrolled hypertension. After six months treatment, the GMRx2 group achieved a 5.8mmHg lower systolic blood pressure compared to standard care.
The MATTERHORN trial shows that transcatheter edge-to-edge repair is non-inferior to surgery in patients with secondary mitral regurgitation, with some safety benefits favouring TEER. The study found no significant difference in efficacy between the two techniques.
A study emulated a clinical trial using real-world UK healthcare data to explore treatment effects in patients with atrial fibrillation. The method found similar outcomes between apixaban and warfarin, but with differences linked to ethnicity and medication use.
A clinical trial found that consuming Mankai after meals can significantly lower blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. The study showed a 20% reduction in post-meal blood sugar levels and faster return to baseline levels in about two-thirds of participants.
TCT 2024 features groundbreaking research on minimally invasive techniques, pharmaceuticals, technologies, and devices to treat or prevent cardiovascular disease. The event showcases the latest advancements in interventional cardiology and offers a platform for clinicians to learn about new interventions and strategies.
A recent study found that approximately half of FDA-approved AI medical devices are not trained on real patient data, sparking concerns about device accuracy. The researchers analyzed 500+ medical AI devices and discovered that many lacked clinical validation data, which is essential for ensuring the credibility of these technologies.
A scoping review from the University of Gothenburg found that music-based movement therapy, known as the Ronnie Gardiner Method, can improve rehabilitation outcomes in individuals with brain disorders. The method has been shown to be challenging, motivating, and enjoyable for participants, leading to improved recovery and quality of life.
A WVU researcher argues that more validation is needed for the increasing number of gallbladder surgeries performed for biliary dyskinesia, a functional gallbladder disorder. The researcher suggests that a combination of factors must come together to diagnose and select patients who would benefit from surgery.
A five-year randomized control trial found that diets high in fruits and vegetables lower blood pressure, reduce cardiovascular risk, and improve kidney health. The study also suggests that incorporating fruits and vegetables into treatment plans can be more effective than traditional medication approaches.
A re-analysis of a community policing study found that increased cooperation and trust in the police lead to more crime reporting, which can inflate crime rates. This 'crime reporting sensitivity bias' must be adjusted for when evaluating the effectiveness of community policing programs.
Researchers found that when given accurate information about the anti-Mullerian hormone test, women had less interest in taking the test compared to those who viewed misleading online claims. The study highlights the importance of providing evidence-based information to women seeking fertility treatment.
A randomized controlled trial found that structured exercise programs significantly improved the quality of life and reduced fatigue in women with metastatic breast cancer. The program, which included twice-weekly training sessions, also showed improvements in pain, shortness of breath, and social participation.
A randomized clinical trial found that overground robot-assisted gait training using a wearable robot significantly improved gross motor function and gait pattern in children with cerebral palsy. The study suggests that this type of assistance may complement standard rehabilitation by providing adequate support.
The nirmatrelvir/ritonavir regimen has shown promise in reducing COVID-19 hospitalizations and potentially lowering all-cause mortality. However, the evidence is limited and varied, with real-world studies showing a high level of variability due to differences in patient characteristics and care practices.
A new approach in vaccine research, adaptive platform trials (APTs), offers a flexible adjustment of study design during ongoing clinical trials. This allows for quick adaptation to new developments and enables the recruitment of large numbers of participants across different countries.
A randomized controlled trial found that support from a peer recovery support specialist was as effective in reducing opioid overdose as support from a licensed clinical social worker. The trial included 648 ED patients at high risk of opioid overdose and showed no significant difference between the two groups in fatal opioid overdoses.
A recent study published in Nature Medicine confirms the health benefits of a diet high in unsaturated plant fats, such as the Mediterranean diet. The research used lipidomics to measure diet-related fat changes in the blood and link them to disease risk.
A major clinical trial led by the University of Nottingham found that LSVT LOUD was more effective at reducing the impact of voice problems in people with Parkinson's disease compared to no speech and language therapy or NHS delivered therapy. The treatment improved communication skills, enabling participants to go out and socialize wi...
A new study published in The Lancet found that a self-guided smartphone-based behavioral therapy led to significant improvements for patients with fibromyalgia. Stanza, a smartphone app delivering acceptance and commitment therapy, showed improved symptoms including pain intensity, fatigue, and depression.
A randomized controlled trial found that four weeks of outdoor gait training, combined with home exercises, improved running biomechanics and reduced the time feet were in contact with the ground. This technique may help patients improve their stride and reduce pain associated with shin splints.
A pooled analysis of three randomized trials found that acupuncture significantly reduced hot flashes and hormonal side effects in women with stage 0-III breast cancer. The study showed that 64% of participants experienced improvements in hot flashes, and acupuncture also improved quality of life.
A systematic review found that community-dwelling older adults are more likely to use wearable monitoring devices if they receive support from healthcare professionals or peers. The interventions that increased awareness and used collaborative goal-setting tools showed the best results.
Researchers have developed a novel drug therapy for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which has shown significant improvements in reducing breathing interruptions and improving overall health. The treatment targets both respiratory and metabolic complications, providing a promising alternative to existing therapies.
A randomized clinical trial found that an intermittent fasting plan consisting of two nonconsecutive fasting days and five days of meal replacement diet improved glycemic outcomes and weight loss in the short term compared to metformin or empagliflozin. The study suggests a promising initial intervention for type 2 diabetes management.
A randomized clinical study found that a lateral episiotomy reduced the risk of obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) by 53% in first-time mothers. The procedure also did not increase the risk of other complications, but may lead to wound complications.
A laboratory study found that passive heat exposure stresses the heart, increasing myocardial blood flow in all participants, regardless of age or health status. Adults with a history of CAD are at particular risk and may benefit from minimizing cardiac strain during extreme heat by staying cool.
A new study aims to improve learning and boost academic performance in South Australian schools by teaching self-regulated learning techniques. The 5-year project will engage 4000 students in years two, four and six across 57 primary schools, providing them with skills to manage their own learning and adapt to challenges.
A new study led by Penn State researchers found that daily consumption of beetroot juice may improve blood vessel function and reduce future heart disease risk in postmenopausal women. Beetroot juice contains high levels of nitrate, which helps blood vessels expand and improves circulation.
A 15-day Paxlovid regimen was found to be safe for extended treatment, but did not show a clear reduction in select symptoms of long COVID. The trial enrolled 155 participants who had been infected with SARS-CoV-2 and reported moderate to severe long-COVID symptoms.
A meta-analysis of 15 randomized studies found that patients taking GLP-1 medications experienced only mild differences in gastric emptying, delaying solid food by about 36 minutes. The findings suggest it may be safe to continue these medications before surgery without a high risk of aspiration.
A new review emphasizes the importance of vaccination in preventing avian influenza spread among humans. The study suggests that a diverse range of vaccine platforms, including inactivated and live attenuated vaccines, as well as emerging alternatives like mRNA vaccines, will be crucial for enhancing pandemic preparedness.
Researchers found no significant 'participation effect' in cancer trials, contrary to common belief among patients and healthcare providers. The study's results provide reassurance that not enrolling in a trial doesn't disadvantage a patient's survival outcomes.
A secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial found that home blood pressure self-monitoring plus medication self-titration reduces BP in the longer term without increasing healthcare use or adverse events. This simple, inexpensive intervention has potential to improve long-term hypertension control in routine clinical practice.
A team from Pohang University of Science & Technology has developed a memory transistor that can adjust its threshold voltage through photocrosslinking. The innovation combines two molecules with a polymeric semiconductor to form a stable bond, enabling precise control of the semiconductor layer's structure.
Scientists at DTU and Lund University have found new enzymes that can remove both the A and B blood antigens and their blocking sugars, enabling the production of universal donor blood. This breakthrough has the potential to reduce logistics and costs associated with storing four different blood types.
A new analysis has found evidence supporting the use of treatments to enhance mucosal healing and reduce inflammation in the gut, leading to improved outcomes for children with malnutrition. The study identified that a short course of treatment can restore mucosal integrity, reducing intestinal damage and systemic inflammation.
Researchers from the University of Cincinnati presented findings on the effectiveness of a two-component enzyme replacement therapy for late-onset Pompe disease. The study showed that patients treated with this regimen experienced improvement or stability in motor function, pulmonary function, and muscle strength. Additionally, experts...
A recent study published in JAMA Network found no association between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and increased risk of autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability in offspring. The study suggests that familial confounding may have contributed to previous associations observed in other models.
A randomized controlled trial confirms the routine use of Impella CP improves survival in patients who have had a heart attack with STEMI cardiogenic shock. The device reduces 180-day mortality by 12.7% compared to the control arm.
A new study found that combining pelvic floor exercises with behavioral therapy can be more effective than current medical treatments in helping men with frequent urges to urinate. The Bladder Emptying Disorder Therapy (BEST) Trial showed significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life measures after just 12 weeks.
MD Anderson researchers presented studies on combination therapies for AML and lung cancer, tumor microbiomes in immunity, and improved HPV screening. Genetic markers predict extended survival with KRAS inhibitors and may identify patients who benefit from novel combinations.
A new study has found that replacing sugar with artificial and natural sweeteners in foods does not make people hungrier, but may help reduce blood sugar levels. The trial involved 53 adult men and women with overweight or obesity and found no differences in appetite or endocrine responses compared to sugar.
A recent study found that eating fortified eggs had no adverse effect on blood cholesterol levels and may even have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. Subgroup analyses revealed potential benefits among older adults and those with diabetes.
A UK trial found that giving e-cigarette starter packs to smokers in emergency departments led to a significant increase in quitting, with nearly one-quarter of participants successful after six months. The intervention also helped those who didn't quit reduce their cigarette smoking.
Researchers from USC's Keck School of Medicine synthesized over 23,000 studies to inform updated clinical practice guidelines for ADHD. The comprehensive literature review found that both medications and psychosocial treatments work for treating ADHD and that children can and do get better.
A new study evaluates the use of tirzepatide in overweight/obese adults with type 1 diabetes, showing significant weight loss and improved glucose control. Tirzepatide also reduces insulin dose and increases time-in-range on continuous glucose monitoring.
A new study found that peer-coaching is effective in controlling high blood pressure, particularly among younger Black patients. Participants under 60 who received peer coaching experienced a medically significant reduction in systolic blood pressure compared to those receiving enhanced usual care. The study also showed promise for pra...
A phase 3 trial co-led by a University of Cincinnati researcher found that subcutaneous levodopa delivery through an infusion pump is safe and effective in reducing symptoms for longer periods. The study resulted in almost two hours of additional 'on time' compared to traditional oral medication, paving the way for potential FDA approval.
A monoclonal antibody, omalizumab, increased the tolerance threshold for multiple food allergens, allowing children to consume larger amounts without a reaction. The treatment showed significant benefits in reducing allergic reactions, particularly for peanut and egg, with potential protection against accidental exposure.
Researchers conducted the first controlled exposure clinical trial in humans using graphene oxide without adverse effects on lung or cardiovascular function. Further studies are needed to assess higher doses and longer exposures to determine safety.