Clinical Research Directory

Goal Concordant Care Learning Laboratory

The goal-concordant care lab will develop and test strategies to optimize communication in advanced serious illness.

Impact of Long-acting Bronchodilator- -Corticoid Inhaled Therapy on Ventilation, Lung Function and Breathlessness

Multicentre, prospective, non-randomised, single-arm, open label, mechanistic study to investigate the mechanism of action of BGF 160 on ventilation pattern complexity and variability

Brain and Peripheral Muscle Oxygenation in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

This interventional study aims to investigate the acute effects of different types of exercise on cerebral and peripheral muscle oxygenation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) will be used simultaneously to measure oxygenation changes in the prefrontal cortex and the vastus lateralis muscle during rest, Stroop task performance, the six-minute walk test, aerobic, strengthening, and breathing exercises. The study will compare COPD patients and age- and sex-matched healthy controls to determine how brain and muscle oxygenation responses differ between groups and among exercise modalities. The findings are expected to guide the design of safe, individualized pulmonary rehabilitation programs that optimize oxygenation without compromising safety.

Inhaler Trainer Efficacy Study

This will be a randomized, controlled, clinical trial. The investigators aim to determine the feasibility of and efficacy of the Inhaler Trainer Device for ongoing inhaler skill training. The research team will enroll 140 patients from the inpatient or outpatient setting from the University of Chicago Medicine over the course of up to 12 months. Participants will complete assessments, a lung function test via spirometry, and inhaler education via either the Inhaler Trainer Device learning program or Brief Intervention. All participants will return at 6 weeks (window of +/- one week) post-initial inhaler education for an in-person evaluation of their inhaler skills, lung function, and acute care utilization. Finally, a post-study semi-structured interview will be conducted to gather feedback on the device after the 6-week visit has been completed.

Triple Therapy Convenience by the Use of One or Multiple Inhalers and Digital Support in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

TRICOLON is an investigator initiated, prospective, interventional, open-label, randomized, real-world, multi-centre, 3-arms study in the Netherlands. The primary objective is to investigate in COPD patients if single-inhaler triple therapy (SITT) is superior to multi-inhaler triple therapy (MITT) in terms of adherence to inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) therapy and to investigate if SITT with e-health support is superior to MITT and SITT without e-health support.

My Lung Health Coach-A Virtual COPD Self-management Support Program Integrated Into the Electronic Patient Record

Study Description: My Lung Health Coach (MLHC) is a virtual COPD education and self-management support program delivered through one-on-one sessions with a Certified Respiratory Educator (CRE) over 12 weeks. It includes six sessions that cover essential COPD topics such as: Basic COPD knowledge, Smoking cessation, Medications (inhalers, oxygen), Physical activity, Mental health and wellness, Vaccinations, Symptom self-management, Nutrition, Travel, and Long-term planning (including end-of-life care). The investigators have also developed a companion app to MLHC integrated into the electronic patient record that patients can access through their EPIC MyHealth app on the participants phones, tablets, or desktops. This study will evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of MLHC and the companion app.

Exploring Novel Biomarkers for Emphysema Detection

The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate whether voice or capnometry, alone or in combination with other (non invasive) biomarkers can be used to detect emphysema on chest CT-scan in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The main question it aims to answer is: • Can a machine-learning based algorithm be developed that can classify the extent of emphysema on chest CT scan from patients with COPD, based on voice and/or capnometry. Participants will: * perform different voice-related tasks * perform capnometry twice (before/after exercise) * perform a light exercise task between tasks ( 5-sit-to-stand test) * undergo one venipuncture

Effects of CreaSafe® on Kidney, Muscle, and Cardiopulmonary Function in Athletes and COPD Patients

Creatine supplementation (CS) offers numerous health benefits, with no proven side effects reported to date. CS positively impacts all organs and systems of the body. However, there is an ongoing effort among several creatine-producing companies to develop increasingly pure creatine formulations that generate fewer renal metabolites. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the effects of a new creatine formulation, CreaSafe®, synthesized by the Chinese company Wenda®, on kidney function in athletes and patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as its effects on skeletal muscles and cardiopulmonary function. Regarding the athletes (Study 1), the sample will consist of 80 healthy athletes (40 strength-training athletes and 40 middle- and long-distance runners). Among each group of 40 athletes, 20 will receive CreaSafe® creatine (0.03 g/kg/day), while the other 20 will receive a placebo (microcrystalline cellulose; 0.03 g/kg/day), for 90 days, orally administered in water in the morning (between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.). For the COPD patients (Study 2), 60 patients with severe and/or very severe COPD will be recruited. Of these, 30 will receive CreaSafe® creatine (0.03 g/kg/day), while the other 30 will receive placebo (microcrystalline cellulose; 0.03 g/kg/day), also administered orally in water for 90 days in the morning (between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.). The supplementation period for both studies will last 90 days, with assessments performed at baseline and after 90 days. Kidney function will be evaluated through urinalysis (Urine Type I), the balance of pro- vs. anti-inflammatory cytokines, and levels of urea, creatine kinase (CK), and creatinine. Body composition will be assessed using octopolar and multifrequency bioimpedance, along with circumference measurements of body segments. Muscle strength of different muscle groups will be assessed using the E-lastic dynamometer. Biomarkers of skeletal muscle degradation and recovery will also be measured in plasma, including CK, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), urea, myoglobin, and the levels of IL-1beta, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-alpha, Atrogin-1, MuRF-1, and GDF-8 (myostatin). Whole blood analysis (erythrocytes, leukocytes, and platelets) will be performed using a fully automated blood analyzer (Sysmex XS 800i). Pulmonary function will be assessed through pre- and post-bronchodilator spirometry, as well as maximal inspiratory (PIMax) and expiratory (PEMax) pressures using a manovacuometer. Cardiovascular function will be evaluated using electrocardiography (ECG) and cardiovascular hemodynamics assessed by impedance cardiography (PhysioFlow). GraphPad Prism 5.0 software will be used for statistical analyses and graph generation. Paired Student's t-tests will be used to compare pre- and post-intervention values within each group, and unpaired Student's t-tests will be used to compare deltas between the CreaSafe® and placebo groups. Statistical significance will be considered at p ≤ 0.05.

Home-monitored Telerehabilitation in COPD Patients

Study title Feasibility and effectiveness of a home monitored rehabilitation intervention using an exergaming approach in COPD patients - a randomized, controlled study. Background and rationale Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a common chronic disease characterized by persistent airflow limitation caused by significant exposure to noxious particles or gases, particularly cigarette smoking. In Sweden the prevalence of COPD is approximately 8% and the annual estimated cost for society of 9.1 billion SEK. Improving exercise capacity and physical activity levels are important goals in management of patients with COPD and are strong determinants of positive outcomes, including increased quality of life. Major barrier for rehabilitation recommendations is the limited access and adherence to organized center-based exercise programs. Major barriers related to the side of health care organization are budgets and infrastructure and the limitation in time of the programs. From patient's perspective major barriers exist, like distance, and lack of transport to the unit, also in relation to the frequency of the program, which is commonly two times a week. Research question and objectives The primary objective of this study is to investigate whether home-based telemonitored supervised exercise programs using an exergaming approach will be associated to improved physical fitness, measured with the (1-minute sit-to-stand test, 1-MSTST) compared to the ordinary care. The secondary objectives of this study are: 1. To investigate whether a home-based exergaming program is associated with improved health-related quality of life, exercise capacity, physical activity levels and body composition. 2. To investigate if the home-based exergaming program is associated with less exacerbations. 3. To investigate if the home-based exergaming program is associated with improved health care utilization and/or less hospitalization from all causes? Study design This is an open label , randomized controlled clinical study. The study takes place at the COPD-center at Sahlgrenska University hospital. Subjects will be randomized to either the use of the ALKIT exergaming tool in combination with telemonitored supervision by a physiotherapist or ordinary care without this system at their first visit. A total of 92 subjects will be included in the study, 46 in every arm. The intervention will include exergames performed 3 times a week for 12 weeks, consistent with the current recommendations. Pre-and post-intervention tests will be performed and subjects in both groups will be assessed. The tests include: 1-minute sit-to-stand test, 6-minute walk test, and timed-up and go. Two self- assessed questionnaires will be filled in: COPD Assessment Test and EQ5D-5L. Subjects will be also measured for quadriceps muscle strength, shoulder flexion and body composition. Additionally, physical activity level will be assessed by outcomes of pedometer worn over a week. Moreover, exacerbations and health care utilization will be measured. Users' perception of the exergaming program will be also investigated. Population and study size The study will include a total of 92 subjects, 46 in the intervention- and 46 in the control arm. For each participant, the total study participation time will be 12 weeks. A randomization list will be produced with random assignment of treatment groups in a ratio of 1:1

ABCDEF Bundle to Prevent Delirium for COPD Patients

Abstract Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory disorder characterized by persistent airflow limitation and chronic respiratory symptoms, resulting from abnormalities in the bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli. Patients with COPD may require admission to intensive care units (ICUs), particularly during acute exacerbations. In this context, both disease management and the prevention of potential complications, such as delirium, are of critical importance. Delirium is a common, preventable, and serious complication in ICUs that prolongs hospital stays, increases healthcare costs, and heightens the risk of infections. Hypoxia-induced cognitive impairment is among the key contributing factors to delirium in patients with COPD. To improve patient outcomes, the ABCDEF Care Bundle was introduced in 2013 as a structured and evidence-based approach to ICU care. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the ABCDEF Care Bundle in preventing delirium in patients with COPD admitted to the ICU. The research will be conducted as a randomized controlled trial between April and December 2025 in the third-level ICU of Taksim Training and Research Hospital. The study population will consist of COPD patients, with a total sample size of 84 patients (42 in each group), randomly assigned using a computer-assisted simple randomization method. A variety of validated instruments will be used to assess pain, sedation, cognitive status, mobility, and sleep quality. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting structured ICU care and to raise awareness among healthcare professionals regarding the implementation of the ABCDEF Care Bundle. Keywords: ABCDEF Care Bundle, Delirium, COPD, Intensive Care, Nursing Care, Randomized Controlled Trial

Atorvastatin Effect on Reduction of COPD Exacerbations

It is a randomized, multicenter, prospective, double-blind, placebo controlled, interventional clinical trial that will be conducted in Poland, in about 12 Hospital Pulmonary Departments to evaluate the effectiveness of atorvastatin on the reduction of inflammation process in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, and possible biomarkers for personalized treatment of COPD.

Comparing BTVA and MWA in COPD With Early Lung Cancer: Efficacy and Safety

Based on the advantages of BTVA in the treatment of early-stage lung cancer and COPD, researchers propose the concept of using BTVA to treat COPD combined with early-stage lung cancer. Researchers plan to conduct a multicenter clinical study focusing on patients with COPD combined with malignant GGNs. Bronchoscopic BTVA surgery or percutaneous MWA surgery will be performed, evaluating the effectiveness and safety of bronchoscopic BTVA and percutaneous MWA surgery in the treatment of COPD combined with early-stage lung cancer.

Efficacy of Osteopathic Manipulative Techniques in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

This study will test the efficiency of rib rising technique and thoracic lymphatic pump technique combining with manual diaphragmatic release technique in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

RELVAR Effects on Parasternal Muscle Activity, Diaphragm, and Ventilation in Severe COPD

This study examines the effect of the ultra long acting beta agonist/corticosteroid bronchodilator combination fluticasone furoate/vilanterol trifenatate, on respiratory muscles and ventilation in adults with severe bronchitis or emphysema (COPD).

Myofascial Release in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

The main objective of this study is to assess the effects of a myofascial release protocol in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Sonographic Diaphragm Function in AECOPD

The study will be conducted as a single-center, prospective cohort study. The primary objective of this study is to investigate the responsiveness of sonographic parameters of diaphragm to detect change in Borg score for dyspnea during hospitalisation for AECOPD without respiratory acidosis.

The Effect of Education and Reminder Messages on the Fatigue Level of Individuals With COPD

COPD is an important respiratory system disease that progresses with damage to the airways.Increased mucus secretion and thickening in the airways causes obstruction.This obstruction causes symptoms such as shortness of breath, cough, phlegm and wheezing.The most obvious problem that the emerging symptoms will cause for the patient is fatigue.Coping with fatigue is an important problem in COPD. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. Does the training given in COPD affect the level of fatigue? 2. Do the education given and text messages sent regarding COPD affect the level of fatigue? In this study, patients were given informative education about COPD and ways to cope with fatigue were explained. Then, in order to increase the permanence of the training, motivational messages and short briefings were continued for 8 weeks.2 messages were sent per week. Three groups were created to reveal the effectiveness of the trainings and messages. Group 1 was trained and messages were sent for 8 weeks. Group 2 was trained and no message was sent. Group 3 is the control group. No training has been provided other than routine maintenance. The initial information of all groups was taken again at the end of the 8th week. Main outcomes: * Dyspnea severity, * COPD general conditions and * Fatigue level. The results obtained will be interpreted by comparing between 3 groups.

Telehealth and Onsite Maintenance Exercise in Chronic Lung Disease

The goal of this pilot clinical trial is to compare telehealth and onsite supervised maintenance exercise program for adults with Chronic Lung Disease. The specific aims of the study are: * To compare 8-week supervised maintenance program delivered onsite and via tele-rehab with no maintenance for patients with Chronic Lung Disease following discharge from traditional exercise or physical therapy or onsite outpatient rehabilitation programs on clinical outcomes (dyspnea, exercise capacity, physical function, physical activity, and quality of life) at 8 weeks and 4-months post-intervention. * To compare the differences in dyspnea, exercise capacity, physical function, physical activity, and quality of life between an 8-week maintenance program delivered onsite and via tele-rehab at 8-weeks and 4-months post-intervention in patients with Chronic Lung Disease following discharge from traditional onsite outpatient rehabilitation. Participants in both intervention groups (onsite and tele-rehab) will undergo a baseline onsite assessment followed by an 8-week supervised exercise intervention either onsite or in a telehealth setting. Control group will receive biweekly check in calls, but no active intervention.

Multidisciplinary Management of Severe COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a common chronic disease that is characterized by persistent airflow limitation, that is due to airway and/or alveolar abnormalities usually caused by significant exposure to noxious particles or gases, particularly cigarette smoking. Latest updates of the Global Burden of Disease emphasize the dramatic size of the problem. In 2015, 3,2 million people died from COPD worldwide, an increase of 11,6% compared with 1990. The overall prevalence of COPD increased by 44,2% and was associated with a significant increase of disability-adjusted life years. In Sweden the prevalence of COPD is approximately 8% bringing the annual total estimated cost for society of 9.1 billion SEK. About 1/3 of patients with COPD undergo periods of acute worsening of respiratory symptoms, particularly dyspnea. Acute worsening of respiratory symptoms is associated with increased in-hospital mortality (up to 20%), short term- (up to 60% at 1 year) and long-term mortality (\> 50% at 5 years) and high risk of re-hospitalization. Because patients with COPD often suffer concomitant disorders that significantly worsen their health status and vital prognosis, the management of the patients is not only the management of COPD but must include identification and treatment of other concomitant chronic diseases. Accurate diagnosis, assessment of severity, and long-term interdisciplinary management of both COPD and concomitant chronic diseases in patients with COPD could be associated with a decreased number of hospitalizations and deaths, improved quality of life and decreased health care utilization in the following 3 years. This longitudinal study will evaluate the effectiveness of detailed phenotyping and comprehensive multidisciplinary management of COPD and multimorbidity in patients. This is a prospective, open label, cohort study using design of intervention and registries data. The anticipated study time is 5 years, with 3 years of intervention (including 2 years of recruitment period) and 1-year data collection from the National Registries. The study will compare number of rehospitalizations from all causes of patient recruited after a hospitalization due to acute exacerbations of COPD to control patients included from the Swedish Airway Register (SAR). The selection of the control population within the SAR is based on risk score matching. At the first visit a thorough individual's assessment will be performed. The assessment includes information about demographics, COPD and exacerbations, medical history, comorbidities, vital parameters, blood and sputum tests and assessment of quality of life. Based on the outcome from the assessment and disease phenotype, personalized care plans will be prepared and given to the patients, including dietary program, adjusted exercise program, psychological counselling, treatment of comorbidities etc. Patients will come for planned follow-up visits, according to the protocol. The last visit will take place at 5th year after the study start. The "end of study" is defined as last visit of the last subject or if the effectiveness of the intervention is shown before. Data collected at eCRFs will be combined with the data from SAR and complemented with data from Swedish National Registries.

Thermotherapy Against Persistent Bacterial LUNG Infections

The aim of this study is to determine whether an intervention with frequent thermotherapy will be able to reduce the amount of colonizing bacteria in the bronchoalveolar lavage sample and eradicate the colonizing bacteria.