Clinical Research Directory

The Peripheral(-Muscle) Oxygenation and Perfusion Score as a New Non-invasive Tool to Predict Elevations in C-reactive Protein Levels in Neonates

This is a prospective, single-center Phase II observational study investigating the predictive value of the "Peripheral(-muscle) Oxygenation and Perfusion Score" (POP-Score), a novel non-invasive composite index, for early detection of infection/inflammation in neonates. The POP-Score combines peripheral muscle oxygenation measured via near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) with routinely monitored clinical parameters (heart rate, oxygen saturation, systolic blood pressure, and subcutaneous fat thickness). The study aims to determine the optimal cut-off value of the POP-Score measured within the first 6 hours after birth to predict elevated C-reactive protein (CRP ≥20 mg/L) within 48 hours. Additionally, multi-site NIRS measurements (cerebral, peripheral muscle, intestinal, and flank) will be evaluated to assess their association with inflammation. The study includes term and moderate-to-late preterm neonates (birth weight ≥2000g) with respiratory distress, admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit at the Medical University of Graz.

A Comparison of Renal vs Limb NIRS for Predicting Cardiac Surgery Associated Acute Kidney Injury

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a complication of cardiac surgery that can affect outcome. Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) is a technology that uses light to determine how well oxygenated tissues are. This technology is routinely used in cardiac surgery to measure the oxygen level in the brain by placing a sensor sticker on the forehead. The purpose of the study is to determine whether NIRS sensor stickers placed on the skin over the kidney can predict AKI better than when sensors are placed on the skin over the participant's limbs. This study is being conducted by investigators from the department of anesthesiology at the University of Utah.

Effects of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulations in Patients With Amphetamine Use Disorders

Amphetamine Use Disorder (AUD) is a major public health issue in Taiwan, where it is the most commonly abused illegal drug. There are currently no effective approved medications to treat it, which makes finding new treatment options urgent. Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), a non-invasive brain stimulation method, has shown promise in reducing cravings and drug use in people with addiction, but its effects on AUD are not well studied. To explore this, the investigators plan to conduct a double-blind, sham-controlled study with 20 people diagnosed with AUD. Half will receive real rTMS treatment, and half will receive a placebo-like sham treatment. The treatment targets a specific brain area (the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex) and will be given 10 times over two weeks. The investigators will assess the effectiveness of rTMS by tracking drug cravings, urine test results, and side effects with follow-up over 12 weeks. The investigators also include brain imaging using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) after the treatment. The study aims to better understand how rTMS might help reduce amphetamine cravings and improve outcomes, potentially leading to new treatment options for AUD.

Using NIRS to Evaluate Splanchnic Oxygenation During Blood Transfusion in Preterm Infant

To evaluate the differences splanchnic oxygen saturation in preterm infants receiving red blood cell transfusion with and without enteral feeding, and their outcomes.