Clinical research

The Effect of Local Anaesthetic Agents on Opioid Use and Recovery in Patients Undergoing Open Heart Surgery BMC Cardiovasc Disord. 2025 Feb 1;25(1):72. Background After open heart surgery, patients often suffer from significant pain at the incision site and around chest tubes, which can slow recovery. This study aimed to see how local anaesthetic applied to these areas affects opioid use and recovery speed. Methods This study involved 60 patients, divided into two groups: 30 patients received local anaesthetic (LIDOFAST), and 30 patients received standard care only. Data were gathered using specific forms to assess patient characteristics and recovery. Results… ➡️➡️➡️

Annual versus Less Frequent Mammographic Surveillance in Older Women with Breast Cancer Study Overview This study, known as Mammo-50, examined whether having mammograms less often than once a year is just as effective for breast cancer survival in women aged 50 and older. Key Methods The trial involved 5,235 women across 114 hospitals in the UK. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either annual mammograms or mammograms every two or three years, based on their surgery type. The study focused on breast cancer-specific survival and cost-effectiveness. Important Findings After an average follow-up of 5.7 years, the survival rates between the… ➡️➡️➡️

Can Citicoline and Vitamin B12 Help Heal Corneal Nerves After Cross-Linking? Study Overview This study looked at how topical citicoline, vitamin B12, and hyaluronic acid (OMK2 eye drops) affect the healing of corneal nerves after corneal cross-linking (CXL) in patients with keratoconus (KC). Study Details A total of 44 eyes from 22 patients with KC who underwent CXL were included. One eye received OMK2 eye drops along with standard treatment (OMK2 group), while the other eye received only standard treatment (control group). The study measured: Corneal sensitivity Tear film stability Central corneal thickness (CCT) Corneal sub-basal nerve plexus (sbNP) parameters… ➡️➡️➡️

Measuring Change in Apathy Symptoms in Alzheimer’s Disease Trials Study Overview This study focused on participants with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) to determine the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in apathy symptoms using three different scales. Trial Design The research involved analyzing changes in apathy scores from two trials: the Apathy in Dementia Methylphenidate Trial (ADMET) and ADMET 2, conducted in specialized dementia clinics across the U.S. and Canada. Participants A total of 260 participants were included, with 60 from ADMET and 200 from ADMET 2, all showing significant apathy related to Alzheimer’s disease. Measurements The study used the Clinical Global… ➡️➡️➡️

Study Overview This study compares two methods for diagnosing unknown causes of fluid in the lungs: medical thoracoscopy (MT) and closed pleural biopsy (CPB). Background Medical thoracoscopy is popular for diagnosing lung fluid issues, but it’s not commonly available in developing countries like India. Aims 1. To compare the effectiveness of CPB and MT in diagnosing undiagnosed exudative pleural effusions. 2. To evaluate the complications of both procedures. Methodology This study involved 38 patients with unknown lung fluid diagnoses from January 2020 to September 2021. They were randomly divided into two groups: Group A: 19 patients underwent Medical Thoracoscopy. Group… ➡️➡️➡️

Study Overview This study compares diagnoses made with a computerized diagnostic decision support system (CDDSS) to traditional diagnoses in emergency patients. It was conducted in multiple emergency departments in Switzerland. Key Points Purpose: To determine if CDDSS improves diagnostic accuracy in emergency settings. Participants: 1,204 adults with specific symptoms were included in the study. Method: Patients were randomly assigned to receive either CDDSS-supported diagnoses or standard care. Outcome Measurement: The main focus was on the risk of diagnostic errors within 14 days. Findings Out of the patients diagnosed with CDDSS, 18% faced diagnostic quality risks, similar to the 18% in… ➡️➡️➡️

Early Detection and Treatment for Postpartum Haemorrhage Overview Postpartum haemorrhage is a major cause of maternal death. A study called E-MOTIVE showed that a specific intervention could reduce serious outcomes by 60%. This intervention involves: Using special blood-collection drapes to detect bleeding early. A treatment bundle that includes uterine massage, medications, and fluids. Support strategies to help implement these measures. Study Details This evaluation looked at how well the E-MOTIVE intervention worked in Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Tanzania. The study included: Observations of 2,578 births. Surveys and interviews with health workers. Key Findings Health workers used the calibrated drapes… ➡️➡️➡️

Free Interleukin 18 (IL-18F) Blood Levels After Midline Laparotomy Study Overview This study examined the blood levels of free IL-18 (IL-18F) and other important markers in patients undergoing midline laparotomy (MLa). We compared patients with benign diseases and those with cancer to see how these levels relate to pain. Key Findings IL-18F levels decreased significantly after surgery, with a notable drop from immediately after the operation to 24 hours post-operation. Patients with cancer had slightly higher IL-18F levels compared to those with benign conditions. The study found strong correlations between IL-18F levels and other markers like IL-18, IL-18BP, and 4-HNE.… ➡️➡️➡️

Protocol for Evaluating Music Integration in Taekwondo for Children with Autism Overview This study aims to understand how adding music to Taekwondo training can help children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) improve their motor skills and engagement in physical activities. Background Children with ASD often struggle with movement coordination. While exercise programs have shown positive effects, not all children benefit equally. This research investigates whether incorporating music therapy into Taekwondo training can enhance participation and outcomes. Study Design This is a randomized controlled trial involving 72 children aged 7 to 9 diagnosed with ASD. They will be divided into two… ➡️➡️➡️

The Role of Serum Free Fatty Acids in Microvascular Function Background High levels of serum free fatty acids (FFA) are linked to insulin resistance and are common in metabolic syndrome. Insulin resistance often leads to poor blood vessel function. Objective We aimed to see if lowering FFA using two different medications—acipimox and salsalate—could improve blood vessel response to insulin. Methods This study combined results from two trials. We included 16 participants (6 with metabolic syndrome and 10 healthy) who took acipimox or a placebo for 7 days. Another group of 19 participants (13 with metabolic syndrome and 6 healthy) took… ➡️➡️➡️

Addressing the Fear of Cancer Recurrence in Family Caregivers Study Overview This study focuses on the fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) experienced by family caregivers (FC) of cancer patients. FCR can lead to a lower quality of life and increased psychological distress. The goal was to test the Family Caregiver-Fear Of Recurrence Therapy (FC-FORT) to see if it is practical and effective. Methodology The study involved a two-group randomized control trial, comparing the FC-FORT group with a waitlist control group. Women caregivers were recruited through hospitals and social media. The intervention group participated in 7 weekly virtual therapy sessions and… ➡️➡️➡️

Automatic Quality Control System and Adenoma Detection Rates During Routine Colonoscopy Study Overview This clinical trial examined how an Automatic Quality Control System (AQCS) can improve adenoma detection rates during colonoscopy, which is crucial for reducing colorectal cancer risks. Key Findings Higher Detection Rates: The AQCS-assisted colonoscopy group had a significantly higher adenoma detection rate (32.7%) compared to the standard colonoscopy group (22.6%). Improved Detection Across Levels: Both lower-level and medium-level detectors benefited from AQCS, showing increased detection rates. More Adenomas Found: On average, the AQCS group detected more adenomas per colonoscopy (0.86 vs. 0.48). No Serious Risks: There were… ➡️➡️➡️

Intermittent Fetal Heart Monitoring with Moyo Doppler Improving Fetal Heart Rate Detection in Ethiopia Study Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate how effective intermittent fetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring with the Moyo Doppler is compared to the traditional fetoscope in Ethiopian hospitals in 2023. Background: The Moyo FHR monitor was introduced to help quickly identify fetuses that may be lacking oxygen. However, there is limited information on its effectiveness in resource-limited settings like Ethiopia. Methods: In this randomized trial (PACTR202305607000259), 2,518 low-risk women in labor were enrolled from September 28, 2022, to February 28, 2023. Participants were randomly assigned to… ➡️➡️➡️

Addressing Unknown Primary Cancer with Early Diagnosis — The SUPER-ED Trial Background Patients with malignancy of undefined origin (MUO) face serious challenges, including poor outcomes and lengthy diagnostic processes. This often leads to patient distress and increased healthcare costs. Without a known primary diagnosis, timely treatment is delayed. Our goal is to enhance the diagnostic process and provide better support for these patients. Trial Overview This trial compares standard care with a new care model designed to: Reduce the time to diagnosis Improve patient experiences Lower healthcare costs Methods The trial involves patients aged 18 and older who have suspected… ➡️➡️➡️

Prognostic Value of Angiography-Derived Index of Microcirculatory Resistance Study Overview This study investigates how the angiography-derived index of microcirculatory resistance (angio-IMR) relates to outcomes in patients with intermediate coronary stenosis. Key Findings The study involved 1,658 patients from the FLAVOUR trial. Patients were monitored for 24.8 months on average. Those with angio-IMR >25 had a higher rate of serious outcomes, including death and heart attacks. Angio-IMR >25 was a strong predictor of poor outcomes, regardless of treatment type. Practical Solutions and Value Using angio-IMR can help doctors: Identify patients at higher risk for serious health issues. Make better treatment decisions… ➡️➡️➡️

Statistical Analysis Plan for ANDROMEDA-SHOCK 2 Clinical Trial Background: The ANDROMEDA-SHOCK 2 trial is an international study comparing targeted resuscitation based on hemodynamic phenotype and capillary refill time to standard care in patients with early septic shock. The goal is to see if this targeted approach leads to lower complications and deaths. Objective: To outline the statistical plan for the ANDROMEDA-SHOCK 2 trial. Methods: We will describe: The trial design and patient selection How randomization and interventions are carried out The outcomes we are measuring and our sample size We will explain our planned statistical methods for analyzing the main… ➡️➡️➡️

Minimally Invasive Surgery for Low-Risk Cervical Cancer Study Overview This study examines whether minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is safe for women with low-risk cervical cancer who have undergone simple hysterectomy. It builds on previous findings that showed worse outcomes for MIS in early-stage cervical cancer patients. Research Methods The analysis included 338 patients from the Simple Hysterectomy And Pelvic Node Assessment trial. We compared clinical outcomes of patients who had MIS (281 patients) versus those who had open surgery (57 patients). Key factors included age, race, health status, and cancer characteristics. Results Summary After a median follow-up of 4.5 years:… ➡️➡️➡️

Exploring the Impact of Short Videos on Mental Health Help-Seeking in Young People Introduction Many young people do not seek help when experiencing early psychosis. This study looked at how short, informative videos could change their attitudes towards getting mental health care. Methods In this online study, 147 participants were divided into groups. They watched either: A 3-minute video featuring a patient sharing their story A 3-minute video from a psychiatrist explaining mental illness A short control video No video at all After watching, participants completed a survey to measure their attitudes towards seeking mental health services. Results The analysis… ➡️➡️➡️

Exercise Medicine to Enhance Cancer Treatment: The ERADICATE Study Overview The ERADICATE study explores how exercise can improve the effectiveness of radiation therapy for prostate cancer. Tumors often lack sufficient blood flow, leading to treatment resistance. This study aims to see if exercise can help by improving blood flow and reducing tumor hypoxia. Study Design This is a phase II randomized controlled trial involving 50 prostate cancer patients. They will be divided into two groups: Exercise Group: Patients will receive external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) along with supervised exercise sessions. Control Group: Patients will receive only EBRT. The exercise program… ➡️➡️➡️

Community Benefits of Dual-Active-Ingredient Insecticidal Nets Against Malaria in Tanzania Background Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) were effective against malaria, but mosquitoes have become resistant to the main insecticides used. To address this, new dual-active ingredient LLINs (dual-AI LLINs) have been introduced. It’s essential to know how much these nets need to be used in a community to protect even those who don’t use them. Methods We analyzed data from a 3-year randomized controlled trial in 84 areas of North-western Tanzania. We tested three types of dual-AI LLINs against a standard LLIN. We checked malaria rates in children aged 6 months… ➡️➡️➡️