Urbino

Researchers are evaluating the use of Computed Tomography Coronary Angiography (CTCA) to better understand coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients who are suspected of having this condition. The goal is to pool a large group of patients who have undergone CTCA to assess how well this test helps in identifying the presence and severity of CAD and predicting future heart-related events. This study focuses on determining the reliability of CTCA in defining disease burden and cardiovascular risk, considering major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) such as cardiac death, unstable angina, and heart attacks as primary outcomes. The study collects retrospective data from patients who underwent CTCA using 16-slice or higher CT technology, with a minimum follow-up period of 12 months (or over 4 years for 16-slice CT). Patients included have suspected CAD and also had their coronary calcium score measured. The CTCA involves detailed imaging with contrast material and may include medications like beta-blockers or nitroglycerine to improve image quality. Researchers classify patients based on the presence and severity of coronary plaques seen on CTCA, distinguishing between normal arteries, non-obstructive disease, and obstructive disease. Participants' data, including cardiovascular risk factors and symptoms, are gathered from clinical records, interviews, and follow-up visits or phone contacts. Researchers monitor clinical events such as cardiac death, heart attacks, unstable angina, and revascularization procedures for at least 6 months. The study analyzes the relationship between CTCA findings and patient outcomes using statistical methods to identify predictors of risk and the added value of CTCA beyond traditional calcium scoring. The study aims to include over 1000 patients for robust analysis.

Researchers are evaluating the impact of a mobile health (m-health) solution on improving the self-management skills of adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) living in the Marche region of Italy. This randomized clinical trial compares the personalized m-health solution, integrated with patients' Electronic Patient Records (EPR), to usual care. The main goal is to assess changes in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels from the start of the intervention through 18 months, along with other health-related factors like medication adherence, lifestyle habits, self-efficacy, and quality of life. Participants in the treated group will receive training and personalized setup of the m-health solution, which includes mobile applications for tracking health data, receiving alerts and motivational messages, communicating with healthcare professionals, and accessing educational materials. Healthcare providers at Diabetes Centres (CADs) will monitor patient data via a dedicated EPR interface and maintain communication as needed. The intervention begins at the CADs and continues at participants' homes, with follow-up evaluations at 6, 12, and 18 months. Throughout the study, participants will complete self-administered questionnaires and clinical assessments during routine physician visits. Data will be collected from the m-health solution, clinical evaluations, and focus groups to evaluate usability, patient experience, and cost-effectiveness. Importantly, no extra visits or laboratory tests beyond usual care are required. The total observation period spans 18 months from baseline to final follow-up.

Recurrent adenotonsillitis is a common and challenging condition in children that often leads to frequent antibiotic treatments, missed school days, and sleep problems. This research evaluates the safety and effectiveness of Streptococcus salivarius Evol124 (Bactoblis4 Evol), a probiotic designed to restore healthy oral bacteria and reduce repeated infections in children aged 3 to 11 years. The study is a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial involving 200 participants with a history of at least three episodes of acute febrile adenotonsillitis in the past year. Participants will receive either the probiotic or a matching placebo tablet once daily in the evening for 3 months, followed by a 7-day wash-out period, and then switch to the alternate treatment for another 3 months. The tablets dissolve slowly in the mouth without chewing, eating, or drinking afterward. This design allows comparison of the probiotic's effects against placebo within the same individuals over two treatment periods. During the study, researchers will monitor the number and duration of adenotonsillitis episodes, antibiotic use, missed school days, sleep quality, and symptom severity using validated questionnaires and clinical assessments. The primary outcomes focus on reducing recurrence and duration of acute febrile adenotonsillitis over 6 months. The total study duration includes two 3-month treatment phases separated by a wash-out period, with comprehensive evaluations throughout the trial.