Clinical research

Implementation and User Satisfaction of a Telemedicine Approach for SARS-CoV-2 Self-Sampling Background Smartphones have opened up new ways to deliver healthcare through telemedicine. The COVID-19 pandemic increased the need for contactless health services, making SARS-CoV-2 testing essential. Objective This study aimed to evaluate a telemedicine approach for SARS-CoV-2 testing, focusing on its practicality, user satisfaction, and cost-effectiveness of self-sampling guided by a telemedicine platform. Methods The study involved: Shipping self-sampling kits to participants Providing instructions for at-home sample collection Processing samples and communicating test results Using a mobile app to share data for clinical and research purposes A total of… ➡️➡️➡️

Intraoral Appliance Treatment for Sleep Apnea in Elderly Patients Study Overview This study focuses on how an intraoral appliance (IOA) can help elderly patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA can lead to serious health issues due to inflammation and oxidative stress. The goal was to see if using an IOA could reduce these problems over 60 days. Key Findings Participants: 9 elderly patients with OSA. Significant Improvements: Reduced Apnea and Hypopnea Index (AHI) (p=0.003) Lower Oxygen Desaturation Index (ODI) (p=0.038) Decreased levels of Interleukin-10 (IL-10) (p=0.0001) Reduced Advanced Oxidation Protein Products (AOPP) (p=0.038) Lower Thiobarbituric Acid Reactive Substances (TBARS)… ➡️➡️➡️

A New Method for Measuring Retinal Oxygen Extraction Overview This study introduces a new method to measure how much oxygen is extracted by the retina, utilizing two commercial devices: laser speckle flowgraphy (LSFG) and retinal oximetry. Study Design The study involved healthy participants in a randomized, double-masked setup. Measurements were taken on two different days: one with 100% oxygen (hyperoxia) and another with 12% oxygen in nitrogen (hypoxia). Baseline measurements were also conducted to check consistency. Key Findings Breathing 100% oxygen resulted in a significant decrease in retinal oxygen extraction by 36%. No significant change in retinal oxygen extraction was… ➡️➡️➡️

Efficacy and Safety of QP001 for Postoperative Pain Relief Study Overview QP001 is a new formulation of meloxicam designed to relieve moderate-to-severe pain after abdominal surgery. This study aimed to assess its effectiveness and safety. Trial Details This phase III trial involved 258 patients across 23 centers from October 30, 2022, to July 10, 2023. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either QP001 or a placebo in a 2:1 ratio. Pain levels were measured using a Numerical Rating Scale. Key Findings The pain intensity over the first 24 hours after surgery was significantly lower in the QP001 group compared to… ➡️➡️➡️

The Ability of a Virtual Implantation Device to Evaluate Two Intraocular Lens Designs Study Overview This study aimed to assess a new device that uses virtual implantation to compare the visual performance of two types of intraocular lenses (IOLs). Methods In this clinical trial, researchers compared monofocal and low-add bifocal IOLs using a device called VirtIOL. The study involved 80 patients under 50 years old with healthy eyes and no cataracts. They measured visual performance through defocus curves and contrast sensitivity using the Freiburg Vision and Contrast Test (FrACT). Results The results showed that: The monofocal IOL had slightly better… ➡️➡️➡️

Effects of Marrubium vulgare Extract on Hormonal Parameters and Clinical Findings in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Introduction Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age. Marrubium vulgare has been traditionally used in Persian medicine to treat PCOS symptoms. This study investigates its effects on hormonal levels and symptoms of PCOS. Methods In this clinical trial, patients diagnosed with PCOS were randomly assigned to receive either Marrubium vulgare extract (250 mg daily) or a placebo for three months. We measured body mass index (BMI), hormone levels (testosterone, estradiol, progesterone), and other health indicators at the start… ➡️➡️➡️

Effectiveness of Working Memory Treatment on Naming Ability in Elderly People with Mild Cognitive Impairment Introduction Older adults with mild cognitive impairment often struggle to find words quickly, which can lead to frustration. This study examines how working memory treatment can help improve naming abilities in these individuals. Methods This study was a randomized clinical trial involving 48 participants over 60 years old with mild cognitive impairment. They were divided into two groups: one received 12 sessions of working memory therapy, while the other did not. Various tests were used to measure cognitive and naming abilities. Results The results showed… ➡️➡️➡️

Efficacy of Jiangzhi Mai’an Granules in Treating Stable Angina Pectoris Background Stable angina pectoris is a heart condition caused by artery blockages, leading to a reduced quality of life and increased risk of heart issues. Modern treatments can be difficult to manage. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) sees this condition as caused by blockages of the heart, which need better blood circulation and clearing of phlegm. This study assesses how effective Jiangzhi Mai’an Granules, a TCM treatment, are for stable angina and carotid artery plaque. The aim is to combine TCM with Western medicine to improve patient outcomes and quality of… ➡️➡️➡️

Clinical Evaluation of Bioactive Injectable Resin Composite vs Conventional Nanohybrid Composite in Posterior Restorations Study Overview The study compares the effectiveness of two types of dental materials for treating cavities in the back teeth over 18 months. Aim The goal is to see how well a bioactive injectable resin composite performs compared to a conventional nanohybrid resin composite in restoring decayed posterior teeth. Materials and Methods We involved 18 patients with 26 cavities. The patients were split into two groups: Group I: Used bioactive injectable resin composite (Beautifil Flow Plus X F00) Group II: Used nanohybrid resin composite (Tetric N-Ceram)… ➡️➡️➡️

Cost-Effectiveness of Long-Acting Progestogens vs. Combined Oral Contraceptives Study Overview This study evaluates the cost-effectiveness of long-acting progestogens (LAP), such as the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) and depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), compared to the combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP) for preventing endometriosis-related pain after surgery. Key Details Design: Economic evaluation alongside a randomized controlled trial. Setting: Conducted in 34 hospitals across the UK from November 2015 to March 2019. Participants: 405 women aged 16-45 undergoing surgery for endometriosis. Interventions: Participants were randomly assigned to receive either LAPs or COCP. Main Findings The analysis showed: The COCP group had an additional cost… ➡️➡️➡️

Electroacupuncture for Recovery After Colorectal Cancer Surgery Study Overview This study, called the CORRECT trial, investigates how electroacupuncture (EA) can help patients recover from gastrointestinal issues after colorectal cancer surgery. Postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction (POGD) is common and needs effective treatment options. Study Details The CORRECT trial will involve: 300 participants with colorectal cancer undergoing surgery. Participants will be divided into three groups: EA group, sham-electroacupuncture group, and control group. All groups will follow a standardized recovery protocol. The EA group will receive treatment at specific acupuncture points twice daily for four days after surgery. Goals of the Study The main… ➡️➡️➡️

Virtual Reality Tool for Cognitive Remediation in Older Adults Overview As the older population grows, there is a strong focus on finding new ways to support healthy aging. This study explores the use of virtual reality (VR) to help individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Our goal is to see if this innovative approach can be practical and effective. Study Design We will conduct a randomized clinical trial with 30 participants over 65 years old diagnosed with MCI. They will be divided into two groups: Experimental Group: Will receive a 3-month cognitive remediation program using immersive VR, with two 60-minute… ➡️➡️➡️

The Clinical Efficacy of Gegen Qinlian Decoction in Treating Type 2 Diabetes Study Overview Recent studies show that the effectiveness of Gegen Qinlian Decoction (GQD) for type 2 diabetes (T2D) is linked to the dose of Coptidis Rhizoma. We conducted three clinical trials to explore this further. Study Details In our first study, we found that medium and high doses of GQD were beneficial for T2D patients. To identify the main active ingredient in GQD, we carried out two additional studies: Study 2: Used Puerariae Lobatae Radix as the main drug. Study 3: Used Coptidis Rhizoma as the main drug.… ➡️➡️➡️

Efficacy of Two-Week Treatment for Helicobacter Pylori Infection Introduction Helicobacter pylori is a common stomach infection that can lead to serious issues like gastritis and gastric ulcers. The World Health Organization has identified it as a major cause of gastric cancer. In Iran, about 54% of the population is infected. This study looked at a four-drug treatment to see how effective it is in eliminating this infection. Methods We studied patients with indigestion who tested positive for H. pylori through endoscopy and biopsy at Shariati Hospital from March 2022 to June 2023. A total of 228 patients were included after… ➡️➡️➡️

Effect of Corticosteroid Injection and PRP in the Treatment of Trigger Finger Introduction Trigger finger is a condition where fingers catch or lock during movement, causing discomfort. It affects about 5-6% of people and can lead to serious functional issues if not treated quickly. This study looks at two non-surgical treatment options: corticosteroid injections and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections. Methods This double-blind clinical trial was conducted at Dr. Ali Shariati Hospital in Isfahan from 2021 to 2022, involving 54 patients diagnosed with trigger finger. Participants were divided into two groups, receiving either corticosteroid or PRP injections. Follow-ups were done at… ➡️➡️➡️

Constipation in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Study on Treatment Options Introduction Constipation is a common issue in children with cerebral palsy (CP), affecting 26% to 74% of them. This study looked at how often constipation occurs and how to manage it. We compared two treatments: polyethylene glycol (PEG) and lactulose, and also checked for any serious side effects like intestinal bleeding. Methods We conducted a study with 48 children aged 1 to 15 years at Mardani Azar Children’s Hospital over 12 months. We used specific criteria to define constipation and randomly assigned the children into two groups of 24.… ➡️➡️➡️

Effect of Two Types of Time-Restricted Eating on Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Introduction Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormone disorder affecting women of reproductive age. It increases the risk of various health issues like metabolic syndrome, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Time-restricted eating (TRE) is a form of intermittent fasting that may help with weight loss and improve blood sugar and fat levels. This study explores whether early TRE (eTRE) or middle TRE (mTRE) is more effective for women with PCOS. Methods In this 6-week clinical trial, we compared the effects of eTRE (8:00 AM –… ➡️➡️➡️

PreVenTB Trial Overview The PreVenTB trial is a major study testing the effectiveness and safety of two TB vaccines, VPM1002 and Immuvac (Mw), to prevent tuberculosis (TB) in healthy individuals living with newly diagnosed TB patients. This is a Phase III, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial taking place in India. Why This Study Matters TB is a serious infectious disease that poses a significant risk worldwide. New preventive strategies, including effective vaccines, are urgently needed to combat this health crisis. Study Details The trial will involve 12,000 healthy household contacts (HHCs) aged 6 to 99 years. Participants will receive one of… ➡️➡️➡️

Study Protocol Overview Background The increase in ADHD diagnoses in children shows a need for effective treatments. Neurofeedback training (NFT) has shown promise, but many studies are done in labs, which may not translate to real life. This study explores combining NFT with virtual reality (VR) to create a more realistic training experience that can help children with ADHD. Methods We will recruit 138 children aged 7-12 with ADHD. After assessing their baseline, participants will be randomly placed into one of three groups: NIRS-based NFT in a VR classroom setting Conventional computerized cognitive training (active control) Waitlist control group After… ➡️➡️➡️

Investigating the Impact of Educational Interventions on Breast Cancer Screening Study Overview Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. Teachers have an important role in encouraging healthy habits, such as breast cancer screening. This study looked at how an educational program based on the Health Belief Model (HBM) could improve knowledge and beliefs about breast cancer screening among female Yemeni teachers in Malaysia. Study Method We conducted a cluster-randomized controlled trial with 180 participants from 12 schools. Participants were split into intervention and control groups. The intervention group attended a 90-minute educational session, with follow-up assessments at different… ➡️➡️➡️