Usak Merkez

Researchers are investigating how isotretinoin, a common medicine used to treat moderate to severe acne, might affect the sense of smell in adults. Since isotretinoin often causes dryness of the skin and nasal lining, and a normal sense of smell depends on a healthy nasal lining, this study aims to see if isotretinoin changes olfactory function. Previous studies have shown mixed results, so this research uses standardized tests to better understand the impact on smell. Participants will receive oral isotretinoin as part of their regular acne treatment. The dose and duration will be determined by their dermatologist, typically involving daily use for at least four weeks. The study includes two key time points: before starting isotretinoin and after a minimum of four weeks of treatment, with assessments performed at both times. During the study, participants will complete the Connecticut Chemosensory Clinical Research Center (CCCRC) smell test to evaluate their ability to identify and discriminate odors. They will also fill out questionnaires about nasal symptoms and quality of life related to their nose and sinuses. Researchers will compare results from before and after treatment to measure any changes in smell function and nasal symptoms, helping to understand the potential sensory effects of isotretinoin.

Researchers are studying the levels of two molecules, DEL-1 and IL-17, in the eye fluid of patients with diabetic cataracts compared to those without diabetes. These molecules play roles in inflammation and immune responses, which are important because diabetes can cause chronic inflammation and affect eye health. The goal is to better understand how diabetes-related inflammation impacts the eye, particularly in patients undergoing cataract surgery. During cataract surgery, a small sample of aqueous humor (eye fluid) will be collected using a sterile syringe before other surgical materials are introduced. The levels of DEL-1 and IL-17 in this fluid will be measured using a laboratory technique called ELISA. The study involves two groups: diabetic patients with type 2 diabetes for at least 5 years and non-diabetic patients, both undergoing cataract surgery. Participants will be evaluated based on their cataract diagnosis and diabetes status, with exclusion of those who have had previous eye surgery or certain inflammatory or systemic diseases. Researchers will monitor DEL-1 and IL-17 levels during surgery to assess inflammation and immune activity. This study focuses on adults aged 50 to 80 years and aims to provide insights into the biochemical changes in the eyes of diabetic patients with cataracts.

Isotretinoin, a vitamin A derivative used for treating severe acne, has been effective for over 35 years but can cause side effects, including musculoskeletal pain and acute sacroiliitis. Recovery from sacroiliitis varies, sometimes lasting months or becoming permanent. This study aims to explore the effects of stretching and sacroiliac mobilization exercises on musculoskeletal pain and quality of life in patients starting isotretinoin treatment, as no prior research has addressed exercise therapy in this group. Participants will be divided into two groups: one will learn and perform sacroiliac stretching and mobilization exercises daily, while the other will continue isotretinoin treatment without exercise. The exercise program is structured over 18 weeks, divided into three 6-week phases consisting of sessions focusing on strength, cardio, core, mobility, and full-body integration. Assessments will be made at treatment start, and at 1, 3, and 6 months to compare outcomes between groups. During the study, researchers will measure musculoskeletal pain using a digital algometer at specific muscle and joint sites and evaluate quality of life using the World Health Organization Quality of Life Short Form questionnaire. These assessments will track pain sensitivity and life quality changes over time. The study will monitor participants for any conditions arising during follow-up, aiming to determine whether regular exercise can reduce musculoskeletal side effects and improve daily life for isotretinoin users.

This research investigates the effects of a 6-week supervised respiratory training program using the AiroFit PRO2 mobile respiratory trainer compared to traditional Pursed-Lips Breathing exercises in adults with hemiplegia following stroke. Hemiplegia causes one-sided weakness and paralysis, leading to respiratory muscle weakness and reduced lung function, which can worsen overall physical health and independence. The study aims to explore whether device-guided inspiratory muscle training can improve respiratory muscle strength, lung function, and quality of life more effectively than standard breathing exercises. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. The experimental group will use the AiroFit PRO2 device to perform inspiratory muscle training for 15 minutes per day, five days a week, over six weeks, with training intensity gradually increasing. The control group will perform Pursed-Lips Breathing exercises for the same duration and frequency. All participants will continue their usual neurorehabilitation therapies during the study. During the study, participants will undergo pulmonary function tests measuring Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1), FEV1/FVC ratio, and Forced Expiratory Flow 25-75%, both before and after the 6-week intervention. Researchers will assess changes in lung function and respiratory muscle strength as key outcomes. Participants must be medically stable, able to perform breathing maneuvers, and capable of following instructions throughout the study duration.

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of High-Intensity Laser Therapy (HILT) in reducing pain intensity among patients diagnosed with Isotretinoin-Induced Sacroiliitis. This condition involves inflammation of the sacroiliac joints and can severely impact quality of life. It may be mistaken for primary rheumatic diseases, leading to unnecessary treatments. The study aims to compare HILT with other treatments to see how well it reduces pain and improves function and quality of life in affected individuals aged 18 to 35 who are taking isotretinoin. Participants will receive laser therapy applied directly over the painful sacroiliac joints using two modes: analgesic and biostimulation. The analgesic mode uses a 10W laser for 4 minutes per joint with 600 Joules total energy, while the biostimulation mode uses a 5W laser for 10 minutes delivering 3,000 Joules. Additionally, all participants will be taught a supervised exercise program to be done three times weekly for about 45 minutes per session. The exercise program includes gentle movements, self-mobilization, and core stabilization phases, progressing as tolerated. During the study, pain intensity will be measured using the Visual Analog Scale at baseline, immediately after the 4-week treatment, and at a 1-month follow-up to assess lasting effects. Researchers will also evaluate functional status, quality of life, disease activity, spinal mobility, and safety of the laser therapy. The trial is a randomized, controlled, assessor-blinded study, and participants will be monitored closely throughout treatment and follow-up periods.

Researchers are evaluating the effects of local peloid therapy on pain and jaw function in adults diagnosed with temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ). This condition is linked to pain, difficulty chewing, limited jaw movement, and sometimes ear pain (otalgia). The study aims to provide evidence on whether peloid therapy, a type of local heat treatment used in physical medicine, can improve these symptoms over a two-week period. Participants will receive peloid therapy applied externally to the temporomandibular joint area and surrounding chewing muscles. Treatments will be given for 20 minutes per session, five times a week, totaling 10 sessions over two weeks. A trained investigator will administer the therapy following a standardized protocol. During the study, participants' pain and jaw function will be assessed before and after treatment using validated clinical tools such as the Jaw Functional Limitation Scale-8, visual analog pain scale, Fonseca index, measurements of maximum mouth opening, and evaluation of secondary ear pain. The primary outcome measured will be the change in jaw function score from baseline to the end of week two. These assessments will help determine the therapy's impact on pain relief and jaw movement improvement.

This research aims to understand how intraocular pressure (IOP), a key factor in glaucoma risk, changes during controlled respiratory stress. The study focuses on the relationship between IOP and different levels of forced expiration, which is a breathing exercise involving exhaling against resistance. Using the Airofit device, researchers seek to provide precise, standardized data on how IOP fluctuates with graded respiratory effort, improving knowledge of IOP dynamics. Participants will perform a series of respiratory exercises using the Airofit device, which applies six distinct levels of resistance during forced expiration. During the study, seven IOP measurements will be taken: one at rest before the exercises and six immediately after one minute of forced expiration at each level from Level 1 to Level 6. This single-visit study will systematically measure how IOP responds to these graded breathing efforts. Individuals taking part will have their IOP measured at baseline and after each respiratory effort level. Researchers will collect data on eye health, including visual acuity and optic nerve condition, and monitor IOP changes throughout the session. The study will also ensure participants understand how to use the device and follow instructions. Outcomes will focus on quantifying IOP changes with each level of forced expiration to establish a clear pattern of IOP response to respiratory effort.

Researchers are evaluating the effects of music listening and breathing exercises during labor on pain perception, birth expectations, and birth satisfaction among first-time pregnant women. This randomized controlled trial took place in a hospital's delivery unit in the Inner Aegean Region of Turkey and involved 90 healthy primiparous women planning vaginal delivery, aged 18 to 35 years. Participants without hearing, visual, or neurological impairments were randomly assigned into three groups: music intervention, breathing exercise, or control. The music intervention group attended childbirth classes at 36 weeks gestation where they were introduced to 12 selected music tracks designed to be calming and uplifting. They received these tracks via WhatsApp for regular listening during pregnancy and labor. During labor, they listened to preferred tracks for 20 minutes at cervical dilations of 4, 6, and 8 cm, with pain measured before and after each session. The breathing exercise group was trained in Lamaze breathing techniques during prenatal classes and practiced guided breathing at the same dilation points during labor, with pain assessments before and after. The control group received routine care with pain assessments at the same points but no additional interventions. Participants attended childbirth preparation classes and were monitored throughout labor with pain measured using the Visual Analog Scale at key dilation stages. Researchers recorded the duration of the first, second, and third stages of labor and collected data on birth expectations and satisfaction postpartum through validated scales. Sociodemographic information was also gathered. This study aims to provide insight into non-drug methods that may improve comfort and satisfaction during childbirth.

Meralgia Paresthetica (MP) is a nerve condition causing burning pain, tingling, and numbness on the outer thigh due to nerve compression near the groin. Common causes include obesity, pregnancy, tight clothing, and trauma. This condition often leads to chronic discomfort and limits daily activities. Current treatments like lifestyle changes, medications, and physical therapy lack strong evidence, and many patients continue to have symptoms. This study aims to evaluate if adding High-Power Laser Therapy (HPLT) to standard care can better relieve pain and improve function compared to a sham treatment. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either active HPLT or a sham laser treatment alongside standard conservative care. HPLT uses a 10-watt continuous laser delivering 800 joules per session targeting deep tissues to reduce pain and promote healing. Standard care includes education on avoiding tight clothing, weight loss advice, posture changes, and home stretching exercises to reduce nerve pressure. The study is assessor-blinded and controlled, ensuring unbiased results. During the study, participants will be assessed at the start, at 3 weeks, and at 3 months using the PainDETECT questionnaire to measure pain intensity and sensory symptoms. Researchers will monitor changes in pain, nerve sensitivity, and functional capacity. The total study duration depends on these follow-up points, and safety will be closely observed throughout. This trial seeks to provide clearer evidence on the benefits of HPLT for people living with chronic MP.