Newcastle Under Lyme

Researchers are evaluating the effects of ensifentrine inhalation suspension compared to a placebo in adults with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis NCFBE. This study aims to understand how ensifentrine, added to standard care, impacts lung flare-ups, symptoms, and quality of life. It is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase II trial designed to assess both efficacy and safety over up to 52 weeks. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either 3 mg of nebulized ensifentrine or a placebo, both delivered twice daily using a standard jet nebulizer. The treatment period may last up to 52 weeks, although the study may end earlier once the last participant completes 24 weeks. Neither participants nor study staff will know which treatment is administered during the study. During the study, participants will be monitored regularly, including assessments of lung function, respiratory symptoms, quality of life, and tracking of any pulmonary exacerbations. Measurements will be taken at baseline and at various time points up to 52 weeks. Safety will be evaluated through adverse event tracking. The primary outcome focuses on the rate of pulmonary exacerbations per year, with additional assessments of symptom changes and lung function.

Researchers are evaluating the use of Mobilization and Tactile Stimulation MTS, a hands-on physical therapy technique, to help adults who have had a stroke and are experiencing unilateral neglect, a condition where they are unaware of one side of their body. This study focuses on stroke survivors aged 18 and over who are more than 20 weeks post-stroke and have signs of neglect. The study aims to better understand how MTS affects neglect using detailed measurements because its effectiveness has not been widely studied. The study includes three phases over approximately ten weeks. First, there is a two-week baseline phase without MTS treatment, followed by a six-week treatment phase where participants receive MTS therapy for 45 to 60 minutes, five days a week. The final two-week phase involves withdrawal of treatment with continued assessments. MTS therapy involves joint movements, massage, touch, compression, and selective joint movement of the affected arm and hand, delivered at home or a convenient hospital setting. Participants will be assessed twice weekly by a research therapist using three tests for neglect the Letter Cancellation Test, the Catherine Bergego Scale, and the Fluff Test. Carers will be trained to perform daily assessments using the Catherine Bergego Scale. After completing the study, participants and carers may take part in interviews to share their experiences. The study includes safety monitoring for risks like arm discomfort, which can be managed by adjusting therapy. Overall, involvement lasts about three months with regular therapy and evaluations.