Clinical Research Directory

Neurostimulation Versus Therapy for Problems With Emotions

The primary goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate the unique neural and behavioral effects of a one-session training combining emotion regulation skills training, with excitatory repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC). The secondary aim is to identify key changes in the emotion regulation neural network following the combined intervention versus each of the components alone. The third aim is to explore personalized biomarkers for response to emotion regulation training. Participants will undergo brain imaging while engaging in an emotional regulation task. Participants will be randomly assigned to learn one of two emotion regulation skills. Participants will be reminded of recent stressors and will undergo different types of neurostimulation, targeted using fMRI (functional MRI) results. Participants who may practice their emotion regulation skills during neurostimulation in a one-time session. Following this training, participants will undergo another fMRI and an exit interview to assess for immediate neural and behavioral changes. Measures of emotion regulation will be assessed at a one week and a one month follow up visit.

Shared Decision-Making for Families in Critical Dialysis Initiation

Background:Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequent and serious complication in critically ill patients, often necessitating difficult decisions about starting hemodialysis. While shared decision-making (SDM) is known to improve communication, the effectiveness of structured SDM programs specifically designed for family members in this critical context is not well-established. Aims: The primary purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a structured shared decision-making (SDM) program for family members of patients requiring critical hemodialysis initiation. We will assess the program's impact on the quality of the decision-making process (e.g., decision conflict, regret) and the psychological well-being (e.g., anxiety, depression) of the family members. Methods: This study is a parallel-group, randomized controlled trial. Eligible participants (family members of patients with AKI initiating hemodialysis) will be randomly assigned to either an intervention group or a control group. The intervention group will receive a structured SDM support program, while the control group will receive standard care. Primary outcomes, including decision conflict, decision regret, anxiety, and depression, will be measured at baseline and follow-up. Data will be analyzed using the generalized estimating equation (GEE) model to compare the effectiveness between the two groups.

Focus Groups in Ethnically and Racially Diverse Families

Focus groups to identify treatment needs and barriers to participation in the planned multinutrient study among racially and ethnically diverse (Black and Hispanic) communities.

Optimizing Research With Diverse Families - Feasibility and Acceptability Study (FAST)

Evaluate feasibility and acceptability of recruiting Black and Hispanic families for an open label clinical trial of multinutrients while collecting real-time parent-reported child behavior data and collecting at-home biospecimens to explore their potential as biomarkers, in a study of pediatric ADHD.

Brief Interventions for Coping with Distress

This study is being done to compare the effectiveness of three different skills trainings to cope with distress. These three trainings are: 1) an attention skills training, 2) an attention and reflective thought skills training, and 3) a health and wellness education training.