Clinical Research Directory

Cluster Training With Blood Flow Restriction in Competitive 200-m Freestyle Swimmers

This study evaluated whether adding blood flow restriction (BFR) to cluster-based training could improve swimming performance and selected physiological responses in competitive swimmers. Twenty competitive swimmers were assigned using a matched, non-randomized design to either an experimental group performing cluster training combined with BFR or a control group performing the same cluster training without BFR. The intervention lasted 8 weeks, with five training sessions per week. The primary outcome was 200-m freestyle performance time. Secondary outcomes included serum concentrations of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) and vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), standing long jump performance, mean 50-m split time during a 150-m swimming test, and repetitions completed during a cadence-controlled Burpee test. The study was designed to determine whether BFR provided additional performance and physiological benefits beyond cluster training alone.

Adaptive Self-Efficacy-Based AI Coaching for Cycling

The primary objective of this study is to evaluate whether adaptive, AI-delivered personalized self-efficacy-based AI coaching based on real-time physiological and performance feedback enhance indoor cycling power output during a 20-minute time trial compared to static affirmations and exercise-only control conditions.

The Effect of a Single Training Session on Changes in Inflammatory, Hormonal, and Metabolic Markers in Athletes

The study aims to assess the acute response of wrestlers to a single training session. Short-term changes in inflammatory, hormonal, and metabolic markers are analyzed to assess fatigue development and recovery following intense exercise. Participation in the study involves completing a standard training session and providing blood samples at three time points to assess the physiological response. The results provide a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying adaptation to exercise in competitive wrestlers.

Exercise Approaches and Physical Activity Level in Inactive Adults

This randomized, controlled, single-blind study aims to compare the effects of different exercise approaches on physical activity level and health-related outcomes in inactive adults. Thirty inactive individuals aged 18-35 years will be randomly assigned to supervised face-to-face group exercise, mobile application-based exercise, or video-based home exercise. Exercise programs will be performed three days per week for eight weeks and will include aerobic, strengthening, and flexibility exercises.

Effects of Orthosis & Exercise on Spondylolisthesis

In the treatment of spondylolisthesis, conservative methods are initially preferred unless severe neurological symptoms are present; surgical treatment is only performed in refractory cases lasting at least 3-6 months. Conservative treatment consists of orthotic use, activity restriction, pain control, physiotherapy and exercise. Orthotics may promote healing by restricting movement; however, there are not enough studies on this subject. Exercise is the intervention with the highest level of evidence in chronic low back pain. The efficacy of stabilisation exercises in providing positive and long-lasting effects on pain and functional disability in patients with spondylolisthesis has been demonstrated. However, studies evaluating the effect of exercise on spinal stability and radiological findings are limited. Therefore, this study aims to compare the effects of stabilization and conventional exercises with orthosis on radiographic findings, pain, physical function and quality of life.

Parkinson Ballroom Fitness: The Impact of Personalized Dance on Motor- and Nonmotor Symptoms in People With Parkinson's

Parkinson Ballroom-Fitness (PB-Fit) is a group-based dance program developed for people with Parkinson's disease. Through music and movement at three different levels (seated, standing, and walking), participants work on balance, gait, strength, and coordination, while also experiencing joy, social connection, and renewed vitality. The purpose of the present research project is to investigate whether seven weeks of PB-Fit training can improve gait and balance and enhance well-being and quality of life, and whether any effects are maintained twelve weeks after the intervention ends. The study is a randomized controlled trial with approximately forty participants and is conducted in collaboration with the Danish Parkinson's Association. The PB-Fit program is based on dance styles such as waltz, swing, and Latin, and is individually adapted. Training takes place in small groups, where participants learn basic steps and work with both motor and cognitive challenges. The program is evidence-informed but lacks quantitative evaluation, which is the aim of this study. PB-Fit is more than training-it is a community rooted in music, smiles, and meaningful relationships, where people with Parkinson's disease, regardless of functional level, are given the opportunity to experience joy, strength, and hope. This was clearly illustrated in the TV2 documentary "As Long as We Dance," in which several participants on the trip to Mallorca described their enthusiasm and the meaningfulness of PB-Fit. The study is led by Associate Professor Martin Langeskov Christensen, PhD (Regional Hospital Viborg), in collaboration with Aarhus University and dance instructor Elisabeth Dalsgaard. The results will be published in an international scientific journal and shared with both professionals and participants.

The Effect of Olive Leaf Extract Supplementation on Training-induced Skeletal Muscle Functional and Molecular Adaptations in Healthy Volunteers

The goal of this study is to investigate the effect of combining olive leaf extract supplementation with endurance training (moderate intensity continuous training or sprint interval training). We hypothesize that OLE supplementation during training, as compared to training alone with placebo, will translate into better performance outcomes. More specifically, we hypothesize that the additional benefits of OLE supplementation on performance will be mediated by improved mitochondrial characteristics in skeletal muscle and increased neural activation.

Home-Based High-Intensity Interval Training in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE, is a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause persistent fatigue, muscle pain, reduced physical function, and impaired quality of life, even when the disease is otherwise clinically stable. The biological mechanisms contributing to these symptoms are not fully understood. Abnormal energy production within skeletal muscle and increased fat accumulation within the muscle may contribute to fatigue and reduced physical performance in people with SLE. This pilot study will evaluate the effects of a 16-week personalized, home-based exercise program in 20 adults with stable SLE and clinically significant fatigue. The program will include three exercise sessions per week: bodyweight high-intensity interval training, strength training, and walking-based interval training. Sessions will be adapted to each participant's fitness, mobility, symptoms, and exercise tolerance. Some sessions will be supervised remotely by video, while others will be completed independently using personalized recorded instructions. Participants will undergo assessments before and after the 16-week program. These assessments will examine skeletal muscle mitochondrial function, fat accumulation within the thigh muscles, physical performance, fatigue, quality of life, and blood-based markers of mitochondrial function and inflammation. The study will help determine whether a personalized home-based exercise program can improve muscle health and physical function in people with SLE and will provide information needed to design larger future studies.

Effects of Policosanol and Exercise on Fitness and Lipids in People With Elevated Blood Lipids

This study will evaluate the effects of policosanol supplementation, concurrent exercise training, and their combination on physical fitness, muscle recovery, inflammatory markers, and blood lipid profiles in adults with elevated blood lipids who are not currently indicated for lipid-lowering medication. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of four groups for 12 weeks: policosanol plus exercise training, policosanol alone, placebo plus exercise training, or placebo without structured exercise training. Participants assigned to the supplementation groups will take policosanol 5 mg per day, while those assigned to the placebo groups will take a matching placebo. Participants assigned to the exercise groups will complete a standardized concurrent exercise training program combining aerobic and resistance exercise. The study will compare changes in physical fitness, lipid profiles, and selected blood biomarkers before and after the intervention. The findings may help determine whether low-dose policosanol, alone or combined with exercise training, can support cardiometabolic health and physical fitness in adults with dyslipidemia.

A Behavioral Digital Intervention For Parkinson's Disease

The goal of this interventional, quasi-experimental study is to evaluate whether a digital dual-task exercise and behavioral program can improve physical activity and influence patient-reported outcomes in people with Parkinson's disease. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. Is the MOVE ON UP digital intervention feasible and acceptable, based on recruitment, retention, adherence, and safety? 2. Does participation in the program lead to increased physical activity levels? 3. Does the intervention produce exploratory improvements in patient-reported outcomes such as motor symptoms, balance confidence, and quality of life? Because the study includes a comparison group, researchers will compare participants receiving the MOVE ON UP digital intervention with participants receiving usual care to determine whether the digital program produces measurable behavioral and functional changes. Participants will: 1. Complete baseline and post-intervention assessments of physical activity and patient-reported outcomes. 2. Engage in an 8-week digital dual-task exercise program, including: 2.1 Structured dual-task exercise sessions delivered digitally. 2.2 Educational content related to Parkinson's disease and physical activity. 2.3 Behavioral support elements informed by the COM-B model. 3. Use the digital platform to follow the program and complete follow-up questionnaires.

Effects of Mobilization Using a Powered Lower-limb Exoskeleton With Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation

This study aims to evaluate the effects of powered lower-limb exoskeleton-assisted training on lower limb strength, respiratory parameters, 28-day ventilator-free days, and length of hospital stay in patients with prolonged mechanical ventilation admitted to a Respiratory Care Center. The goal is to provide clinical evidence for integrating rehabilitation and respiratory care in this patient population.

Acute Effects of Visual Feedback-Assisted Inspiratory Muscle Training After Lobectomy

This study aims to evaluate the acute effects of inspiratory muscle training performed with and without a mobile application providing visual feedback on exercise motivation, patient adherence, dyspnea perception, usability, and patient satisfaction in lung cancer patients undergoing lobectomy via video-assisted thoracic surgery. Participants will perform conventional inspiratory muscle training without visual feedback in the morning on postoperative day 1 after transfer to the ward. After at least two hours of rest, the same exercise protocol will be repeated with a smart adaptor connected to a mobile application to provide visual feedback. Inspiratory muscle training will be performed using a threshold-loading device at 40% of maximal inspiratory pressure, with three sets of ten breaths. Outcomes will be assessed before and/or after each session as appropriate.

EXERCISE AND THE IMMUNE RESPONSE IN LUNG CANCER

This project is about the effect of a 12-week training therapy intervention in patients suffering from non-small cell and small-cell lung cancer. It has widely been accepted that exercise is preventive against certain types of cancer. Individuals following an active lifestyle have a significantly lower risk for several chronic diseases, including cancer, as compared to sedentary ones. However, evidence is still lacking for exercise as part of routine cancer treatment. It has widely been accepted that exercise strongly impacts immune response, and might influence antitumor immune response as well. In this study, patients suffering from lung cancer undergo either a 12-week training program consisting of moderate-intensity continuous exercise (MICE), or a 12-week program with high-intensity interval exercise. Both groups will be compared to a control group receiving standard exercise recommendations. The immunologic response, i.e. cytokine profiles and changes in peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) characteristics will be the main endpoint. Blood will be taken from the patients at different timepoints, and blood samples will be tested for these immunologic changes. FACS analysis will be used to assess the properties of immune cells and potential changes upon the exercise regimen. Mitochondrial function will be assessed via the Seahorse machine, and mass spectrometry (lipidomics) will be used for the analysis of lipid profile changes.

Most Effective Knee Joint Angle Pair for Isometric Exercise

This study investigated the effects of isometric exercises applied to the quadriceps and hamstring muscles at different knee joint angles on balance, joint position sense, and functional performance in healthy individuals. Thirty participants aged 18-26 years were randomized into four groups and performed an eight-week training program, three times per week. Outcome measures included the Y Balance Test, digital goniometer assessments for joint position sense, and functional performance tests (stair climb and 30-second sit-to-stand). The results aim to identify which knee joint angles are most effective for improving neuromuscular function and may guide future rehabilitation and training protocols.

REACTION-VAD Trial: Remote Exercise Training Via Telemedicine in Patients With Long-Term Ventricular Assist Devices

Current international guidelines recommend that patients with a heart pump (left ventricular assist device, LVAD) participate in supervised exercise cardiac rehabilitation programs. However, not all patients with a heart pump are able to attend to a supervised program on a daily basis. The goal of this clinical trial is to determine whether a home-based exercise program helps patients with a heart pump improve their exercise capacity and quality of life, guided by telemedicine tools including a mobile app, smartwatch, and remote medical checkups. The study will also provide information about the safety of this program by monitoring for any issues or symptoms during home activity. The trial aims to answer the following questions: * Does a 12-week remote exercise program improve patients' exercise capacity? This will be measured using the 6-minute walk test and a cardiopulmonary exercise test. * Is it safe for patients to follow this exercise plan at home while being monitored through a mobile app and smartwatch? * Does the program improve quality of life and reduce feelings of anxiety or depression? This will be assessed using widely validated questionnaires, such as the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire. Researchers will compare the remote exercise program to standard care, which usually does not include exercise for patients who are unable to attend the hospital daily. Participants will: * Join the study voluntarily after signing a consent form. * Be randomly assigned, with a 50% chance of being in either the exercise group (following a structured plan with a mobile app) or the usual care group (receiving general written advice), to see which approach works best for recovery. * Follow a 12-week home-based routine if in the exercise group, including warm-up routine, walking or cycling, respiratory exercises, and light strength training, all supported by the mobile app, smartwatch, and professional monitoring. * Visit the hospital three times over six months for medical checkups, including walking and exercise tests, blood analyses, and questionnaires about physical and emotional health.

Effect of Gluteus Maximus Strengthening on Back Pain, Range Of Motion and Endurance in Desk-Job Workers With Chronic Low Back Pain

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn Effect of strengthening of Gluteus maximum on 40 Desk- Job workers with low back pain and Range of motion he main questions it aims to answer are: 1. Does strengthening of Glutes Maximum decrease the pain in Desk-Job worker with low back pain? 2. 1- Does strengthening of Glutes Maximum increase the Range of Motion in Desk-Job worker with low back pain? Participants will: * treated by: electrotherapy, postural education, active range of motion or Gluteus maximum strengthening. * visit clinic 3 times per weeks for 4 weeks.

Phenotyping Resting and Exertional Right Ventricular Dysfunction Among Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

This study plans to learn about heart function among individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In particular, the investigators want to understand the different patterns of right ventricular response during rest and moderate- vs high-intensity exercise. By identifying patterns of right ventricular dysfunction, this study will help identify better treatments for patients with COPD in the future.

Right Ventricular Response to Exercise Among Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

This study plans to learn more about heart function among individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In particular, the investigators want to understand the different patterns of right ventricular response during rest and moderate- vs high-intensity exercise. By identifying patterns of right ventricular dysfunction, this study will help identify better treatments for patients with COPD in the future.

Effects of Preoperative Whey Protein and Exercise Support on Recovery After Total Hip Arthroplasty

Objective: The aim of this project is to evaluate the effects of preoperative whey protein supplementation and a physical exercise program on postoperative recovery outcomes in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). Specifically, inflammatory markers (CRP), nutritional status (albumin), mobilization time, length of hospital stay, and physical and social functioning will be assessed. As one of the first randomized controlled trials in Turkey to focus on the preoperative period and to evaluate a combined nutrition and exercise intervention in elderly surgical patients, this study holds pioneering significance in both clinical and academic contexts. Methods: This study is designed as a randomized controlled trial. The intervention group will receive whey protein supplementation and a home-based exercise program for 14 days preoperatively, while the control group will receive standard preoperative care. Data collection will be performed preoperatively and on postoperative days 3 and 5, focusing on metabolic and functional parameters. Expected Outcomes: The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the improvement of patient care through a multidisciplinary approach, inform health policy development, and provide a foundation for larger-scale clinical research in Turkey.

The Effects of Thrower's Ten Exercises Performed With an External Focus

The aim of this study is to comprehensively investigate the effects of the Thrower's Ten exercise program-commonly recommended to enhance shoulder stability and strength in athletes-when applied using an external focus of attention approach (i.e., directing attention toward an object or movement outside the body), on functional performance, shoulder stability, balance, and throwing performance in adolescent basketball players. This study has been designed to examine the effects of performing the Thrower's Ten exercises with an external focus of attention on functional performance, shoulder stability, balance, and throwing performance in adolescent basketball players. Athletes will be randomly assigned to two groups: the experimental group will perform the exercises using an external focus of attention, whereas the control group will perform the same exercises without any specific attentional focus. The methods employed in this study are expected to effectively address the research objectives. The data collection tools and analytical techniques to be used are based on validated and widely accepted tests in the literature. Functional performance will be assessed using the Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test, balance will be evaluated using the Upper Extremity Y Balance Test, and throwing performance will be measured using the Medicine Ball Throw Test.

Telerehabilitation vs. Home Exercise in Piriformis Syndrome: A Comparative Study

The aim of this study is to compare the effects of asynchronous telerehabilitation and home exercise programs on pain, fear of pain, functionality, and performance in individuals with piriformis syndrome.

Cardiorespiratory Fitness Training in Patients With Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury

The goal of this exploratory randomized controlled trial is to assess the effect of a personalized training intervention during primary rehabilitation of 6 weeks on cardiorespiratory fitness in individuals with subacute (\<6 months) spinal cord injury during primary rehabilitation and during follow-up. Secondary outcomes include the effect on gait assessments, pulmonary function, neurological status, muscle force, cardiometabolic risk factors, quality of life, functional independence and self-efficacy. Participants in the intervention group will receive 2-3 personalized cardiorespiratory fitness-focused training sessions per week, for a period of 6 weeks. Participants in the control group will receive usual care.

Pain in Aging Former Athletes, Master's Athletes, and Nonathletes

The goal of this clinical trial is to determine how male and female former athletes experience pain and respond to moderate-intensity exercise (strength versus aerobic) compared with both current master's athletes and nonathletes. The main questions this study aims to address are: 1. How do former athletes, master's athletes, and nonathletes experience pain? 2. How do different types of moderate-intensity exercise (strength versus aerobic exercise) influence pain in former athletes, master's athletes, and nonathletes? Participants will complete 3 different testing sessions: 1. Baseline testing including assessments of strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, and pain; 2. Strength exercise: pain assessments will occur before and after moderate-intensity strength training exercise; 3. Aerobic exercise: pain assessments will occur before and after moderate-intensity aerobic exercise. There will be a washout period of approximately one week or greater between each of the three different testing sessions. The order of conditions (strength versus aerobic exercise) will be randomized (crossover randomized trial design).

Guided Episodic Future Thinking to Increase Physical Activity Adherence and Promote Healthy Brain Aging

The goal of this behavioral clinical trial is to learn how to increase physical activity in mid-life adults. Specifically, can guided imagery that includes creating mental pictures increase excitement about working out. Participants will be asked to complete testing at the beginning of the study, following 6-weeks of an in-person exercise program, and 6-weeks after finishing the exercise program. Testing will include an exercise test, MRI, questionnaires, computer tasks, and a blood draw.