Northwestern University

This study compares two different incubation times for a light-activated cream used to treat actinic keratosis, a common precancerous skin condition caused by sun exposure. Participants receive either no wait or a one-hour wait after applying the cream before blue light therapy. …

This study tests whether injecting carbon dioxide gas under the skin can safely reduce fat on the flanks (love handles). Healthy adults with a normal body weight will receive the gas on one side and a fake treatment on the other, with no other weight-loss methods allowed. The mai…

This study tested a culturally tailored lifestyle program called SAHELI for South Asian adults at risk for heart disease. The program focused on diet and physical activity changes. Researchers compared the program to standard health education materials in 550 participants. The go…

This study tests whether giving doctors a reminder and providing patients with a one-page handout can help women who had gestational diabetes or high blood pressure during pregnancy get a primary care visit within six months of delivery. The goal is to prevent future diabetes and…

This study tested whether transplanting insulin-producing islet cells, along with immune-suppressing drugs, could safely prevent severe low blood sugar episodes in people with type 1 diabetes who don't feel warning signs. Ten participants received the transplant and were monitore…

This phase II trial tested whether combining the immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab (Keytruda) with the chemotherapy carboplatin could help people with HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer that has spread. The 12 participants had cancer cells in their blood and had already tried …

This phase 2 trial tested whether combining two drugs, romidepsin and lenalidomide, is safe and effective for people with peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) who haven't had treatment yet. PTCL is a rare blood cancer with no standard therapy, and current options like CHOP chemother…

This study tested whether the drug ibrutinib can safely keep mantle cell lymphoma from returning after initial chemotherapy. Thirty-seven patients who had already responded to chemo took ibrutinib as a maintenance therapy. Researchers tracked how long patients stayed cancer-free …

This study tested a new way to monitor blood flow to the brain during heart surgery to prevent brain injury. It included 460 high-risk patients having heart surgery with a heart-lung machine. The goal was to see if this monitoring could reduce strokes, new brain lesions, or memor…

This phase II trial tested a combination of the targeted drug brentuximab vedotin with standard chemotherapy (AVD) in 49 older adults with untreated Hodgkin lymphoma. The goal was to see how many patients achieved complete remission. The approach aims to improve outcomes by targe…

This study tested a smartphone app called TECH designed to help court-involved teens reduce or stop using marijuana. The app is a private online community where teens can support each other anonymously. Researchers enrolled 60 teens aged 14-18 who had used marijuana in the past y…

This study tested two types of special mattresses—the Fluid Immersion Simulation (FIS) system and the Air Fluidized Bed (AFB)—to see which helps heal surgically closed pressure ulcers (bedsores) better. Eighty adults with stage III or IV bedsores were randomly assigned to one mat…

This study tested a program that combined mobile health tools and peer support to help 541 Nigerian adolescents with HIV stick to their treatment and keep the virus under control. Participants were already on antiretroviral therapy and received the program for up to 48 weeks. The…

This study tested whether taking metformin daily for six months can improve how far people with peripheral artery disease can walk in six minutes. 203 participants were randomly assigned to receive metformin or a placebo. The goal was to see if this common diabetes drug could eas…

This study tests whether giving donor stem cells and a drug called Campath-1H can help kidney transplant recipients stop taking anti-rejection medications permanently. Eighty-eight patients receiving a kidney from an identical sibling will get the stem cell infusions and temporar…

This study looked at whether people who have an abortion are more likely to keep using a birth control shot if they can inject it themselves at home versus getting it from a nurse. About 263 participants chose either self-injection or clinic injection of the same medication. Rese…

This study tested a vacuum-assisted closure device (Prevena) on the surgical wounds of 104 adults who had spinal fusion surgery. The goal was to see if the device could reduce problems like infections, wound reopening, and fluid buildup under the skin. Researchers also tracked sk…

This early-phase trial tested two drugs, abemaciclib and letrozole, given before standard hysterectomy in 27 women with endometrial cancer. The goal was to see if the combination could slow cancer cell growth by measuring changes in a protein called Ki-67. The study was small and…

This study tested whether a higher dose of the long-acting injectable medication risperidone (Risperdal Consta) works better than the usual dose for people with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who still have symptoms despite standard treatment. 160 participants received…

This pilot study tested whether a year of monthly romosozumab injections, followed by a year of weekly alendronate pills, can improve bone health in women with chronic spinal cord injury and osteoporosis. Twelve non-ambulatory women participated. The goal was to see if this two-s…

This study looked at whether a special eye scan (SS-OCTA) can detect signs of cardiovascular disease. Researchers compared retinal blood vessel changes to results from a standard carotid ultrasound in 42 adults. The goal was to see if the eye scan could predict the presence or se…

This study tested small wearable sensors to see if they can accurately measure lymphedema, a condition where fluid builds up and causes swelling, often after cancer treatment. Thirty adults with arm lymphedema wore the sensors during one visit, and researchers compared the readin…

This study tested whether a single dose of zoledronic acid, a drug already used for osteoporosis, can prevent the rapid bone loss that often follows a spinal cord injury. Researchers enrolled 60 adults who had recently lost the ability to walk due to injury. They measured changes…

This pilot study tests whether performing multiple subcision procedures over several visits can improve rolling acne scars. Rolling scars are depressed areas of skin caused by past acne. Subcision involves inserting a small blade under the skin to break up fibrous bands that teth…

This study tests two different numbing creams—one with lidocaine/prilocaine and another with lidocaine/tetracaine—against a placebo to see which works best for pain during Q-switched 532nm laser treatment for age spots (lentigines) and skin rejuvenation. Women aged 25 to 65 with …

This pilot study compares two FDA-approved cosmetic procedures—fractional laser and high-intensity focused ultrasound—for treating wrinkles around the eyes (crow's feet and lower eyelid lines). About 20 adults aged 35–60 with moderate wrinkles will receive one treatment on each s…

This study looks at whether purposely contracting forehead muscles after Botox injections changes how quickly the treatment works, how well it reduces wrinkles, and how long the effect lasts. Researchers will inject Botox into the foreheads of 25 healthy adults aged 18–65 who alr…

This study tests whether adding suction from a microdermabrasion device to the standard scar treatment (subcision) can improve rolling acne scars more than the standard treatment alone. Each participant receives both treatments on different sides of their face so the results can …

This study tests two behavioral therapies—imagery rehearsal therapy (IRT) and targeted dream control (TDC)—to reduce nightmares in adults with narcolepsy. Participants attend therapy sessions, keep a daily sleep log, and complete questionnaires. Some Chicago-area participants als…

This study is testing a mobile app that gives weekly suggestions to help people with binge eating and obesity. The goal is to see which suggestions work best and in what order. About 300 adults who binge eat regularly and have a BMI of 30 or higher are taking part. The app tracks…

This study tested a 21-step enhanced recovery protocol for children aged 10-18 undergoing elective gastrointestinal surgery. The protocol included things like shorter fasting times, early eating and moving, and less use of opioids. The goal was to see if it could shorten hospital…

This study tested a special taping technique for people with heel fat pad syndrome, a condition that causes pain under the heel. Sixteen adults with heel pain for at least a week but less than 3 years took part. They received both the special loop taping and a control taping to s…

This pilot study tested whether a non-invasive device that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain (rTMS) could safely help cancer survivors with depression and anxiety. Twenty-four adults who had been treated for any type of cancer and still had major depression received eit…

This pilot study tested a digital mental health program called TEPS for teens aged 12-18 with anxiety. Sixty-six participants were recruited from public libraries and randomly assigned to the digital program or usual library services. The study measured how acceptable, usable, an…

This study tested whether using a standardized nighttime pad and avoiding leak-prevention behaviors (like waking up early) could improve sleep in 25 women with heavy menstrual bleeding. Participants tracked their sleep quality over three cycles using a standard questionnaire. The…

This phase 2 trial tests whether daily injections of unacylated ghrelin, a natural hormone, can improve walking ability in people aged 55 and older with peripheral artery disease (PAD). Participants receive either the hormone or a placebo for four months. The study measures chang…

This study tested a new walking therapy for people who had a stroke at least 6 months ago. A robotic device was used to amplify the person's own leg movements during walking, aiming to improve balance. 33 participants completed the training, and researchers measured changes in wa…

This study tested a home-based physical therapy program called LIFT for people with liver cirrhosis waiting for a transplant. The program included a personalized exercise plan, a smartphone app to track progress, daily text reminders, and regular phone check-ins. The goal was to …

This study tested a new swallowing exercise for people who have trouble swallowing after treatment for head and neck cancer. The exercise trains patients to start swallowing while breathing out, which may help prevent food or liquid from entering the airway. 88 survivors particip…

This study tested whether a device that assists hand opening and a robot that supports the shoulder can help stroke survivors with moderate to severe arm weakness practice daily activities. 53 participants completed the trial. The goal was to see if this device-assisted practice …

This study tested an online program called ORCHID that helps people with HIV feel more positive emotions. The goal was to see if it could reduce depression and improve HIV care. 29 adults from Chicago clinics took part. The program was designed to be used on a phone or computer.

This study looked at two methods for removing kidney stones: laser dusting (breaking stones into tiny pieces that pass naturally) and basket extraction (using a small wire basket to remove fragments). Researchers compared how well each method cleared stones, how much pain patient…

This study tested a mobile app called SyMon-SAYS that lets children with cancer report their symptoms weekly to their doctors. The goal was to see if using the app helps manage symptoms and improve quality of life. 216 children and their parents took part, with some using the app…

This study tested a single online session called Project WAVE that teaches mindfulness and emotion exposure skills to help young adults (ages 18-29) cope with distressing feelings. 550 participants completed the program or a control activity. The goal was to see if the program re…

This study looked at three ways to manage pain after severe perineal tears (called OASIS) that can happen during vaginal delivery. Sixty-seven women received either a placebo, epidural morphine alone, or epidural morphine plus intravenous ketamine. The goal was to see which optio…

This study tested a 'Genius Pillbox' — a pill organizer with sensors and automatic reminders — to see if older adults find it helpful. Twelve people aged 60 or older who take multiple daily medications used the device for four weeks. Researchers measured how acceptable and easy i…

This study tested a digital mental health app designed to help young adults (ages 18-25) who engage in nonsuicidal self-injury and are not currently in treatment. The app provides psychoeducation, skill-building exercises, and daily check-ins. Researchers compared a self-guided v…

This study tested a myoelectric computer interface (MyCI) in 35 stroke survivors to reduce abnormal muscle co-activation. Participants trained with the device in a lab setting. The goal was to improve arm function and reduce muscle tightness. Results may help develop new therapie…

This study tested whether personalized text messages can help people with depression manage their symptoms. 100 adults with moderate to severe depression received either adaptive texts that learned their preferences, non-adaptive texts, or just educational links. The goal was to …

This study tested a home-based cognitive training program called BrainHQ in 60 women with gynecologic cancers who had memory or thinking problems after chemotherapy. Participants used the app for about 2.5 hours per week for 10 weeks. The goal was to see if the program was practi…

This study tested whether a program inspired by Tibetan Dream Yoga—combining meditation, lucid dreaming, and virtual reality—is feasible for people with mild anxiety. Twenty-five healthy adults with good dream recall took part. The main goal was to see if people would stick with …

This study tested an 8-week text messaging program for young adults (ages 18-25) with depression or anxiety who do not want in-person therapy. Some participants got personalized messages tailored by a computer, while others got standard messages or weekly tips. The goal was to se…

This pilot study tested a digital program called FoodSteps for adults who struggle with binge eating, have type 2 diabetes, and face food insecurity. Participants used a mobile app and received coaching and a weekly stipend for 16 weeks. The goal was to see if the program is feas…

This study tested a special sleep program for 40 people who recently lost their spouse or long-term partner. The program used online sessions to teach better sleep habits and was compared to just giving information. The goal was to see if it could improve sleep and reduce inflamm…

This study tested whether physical therapy and education before breast cancer treatment can help prevent or reduce side effects like joint pain, muscle weakness, and fatigue. 75 newly diagnosed patients were randomly assigned to either the MOve-ABC program (physical therapy, home…

This study tested an online program called LEAF that teaches positive emotion skills to family caregivers of people with Alzheimer's. 386 caregivers were randomly assigned to a Zoom group, a self-guided group, or a control group. The goal was to see if learning these skills could…

This study tested an online program called ALDER that teaches older adults skills to boost positive emotions and reduce anxiety. 33 people aged 65 and older who used benzodiazepines (anti-anxiety or sleep medications) at least twice a week took part. Over 5 weeks, they learned an…

This study tested a program where parents learned special communication strategies to help their toddlers with hearing loss develop spoken language. 105 children aged 12-18 months with bilateral hearing loss and no other disabilities took part. Parents received coaching via video…

This study tested whether having a physical therapist treat people with sudden low back pain right in the emergency department can help them feel better and use fewer painkillers. 360 adults with back pain for less than 30 days took part. Some got usual care (medication, advice),…

This study tested whether starting physical therapy in the emergency department helps people with chronic low back pain. 128 adults were randomly assigned to receive either usual care or physical therapy that included exercise, education, and a home plan. The goal was to see if t…

This study tested whether a specific nerve block (Pecs block) using a non-opioid painkiller called Exparel can reduce pain, nausea, and the need for opioids after breast reconstruction with tissue expanders. Sixty adults undergoing this surgery were randomly assigned to receive e…

This study tested a technology service to help care managers in obstetrics clinics treat depression during pregnancy and after birth. 75 women with moderate to severe depression used an app for symptom tracking and a website with educational content. The goal was to see if these …

This study tested whether a device called VerTouch can help doctors find the best spot for epidural or spinal anesthesia more accurately than using touch or ultrasound. Researchers compared the number of needle adjustments needed with each method in 86 adults undergoing these pro…

This study looks at how satisfied people are after having skin cancer surgery. Researchers ask patients to rate their experience with the surgeon, the facility, the procedure itself, and their recovery. The goal is to understand what matters most to patients and find ways to impr…

This study investigates the correct dose of hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid fillers, to safely and effectively remove them. Researchers will inject increasing amounts of hyaluronidase into healthy adults until the filler is no longer detectable. The goal…

This study investigates how different language treatments affect both language skills and brain function in people with aphasia, a condition that impairs the ability to speak, understand, read, or write after a stroke. Participants will receive therapy targeting naming, spelling,…

This study looks at how sleep length and quality may affect the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in women. Participants will wear a ring-shaped device that tracks sleep patterns before and after a frozen embryo transfer. The goal is to see if sleep parameters like total sl…

This completed study at Northwestern University brought together 35 patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers to discuss how to improve the identification and management of high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and diabetes during hospital stays and when moving between care setti…

This study looked at whether pairing a college student mentor with a younger student from Chicago public schools could improve the heart health of both. Researchers measured things like metabolic symptoms, blood vessel function, and insulin resistance. The goal was to see if a su…

This study tests whether a simple checklist can help Chinese adults in Chicago get recommended cancer screenings and connect with resources for social needs like housing or food. About 600 participants will use the checklist with a navigator's support. The goal is to see if this …

This study looked at whether people with chronic low back pain can correctly identify the source of their pain after learning about common causes. About 288 adults with back pain for over 3 months reviewed educational slides and then guessed their top two diagnoses. Researchers c…

This study tested a website and mobile app called BC-Navigate, designed to help Black women and other women of color start chemotherapy on time after breast cancer surgery. The goal was to see if the app was easy to use and could reduce racial inequities in cancer care. Researche…

This study looked at 120 men who had HoLEP surgery for an enlarged prostate. Researchers wanted to see if bowel problems before surgery made recovery harder. Patients filled out questionnaires about bowel and urinary symptoms before and after surgery. The goal was to learn how bo…

This study tested whether wireless, wearable sensors can measure social interaction in healthy adults. 120 participants wore the sensors during daily activities to track how much they talked. The goal was to see if the sensors could provide a reliable measure of social interactio…

This completed study from Northwestern University looked at how common and bothersome hot flashes, night sweats, and other vasomotor symptoms are in women shortly after a hysterectomy where at least one ovary was kept. Twenty women aged 35 to 50 completed surveys before surgery a…

This study looked at whether using regular patient surveys to guide treatment can help people with opioid use disorder stay in treatment and stop using opioids. Researchers worked with 35 clinic leaders and providers to train them on this approach. They compared patient attendanc…

This study looked at how the brain tracks speech sounds in healthy young adults. Researchers measured brain waves in English and Mandarin speakers to see how language experience and attention affect sound processing. The goal was to better understand the brain's role in hearing, …

This study looked at how older adults, including those with Alzheimer's or mild cognitive impairment, make decisions about where to live as they age. Researchers followed 293 participants to understand what factors—like memory, health knowledge, and support from family—influence …

This study followed over 2,000 pregnant women to measure their blood sugar levels throughout pregnancy. The goal was to see how glucose patterns relate to gestational diabetes and whether the baby is born larger than normal. Researchers used continuous glucose monitors and standa…

This study tested a program called OPTIMIZE that uses a checklist and patient navigators to help Black pregnant women get better care during and after pregnancy. About 548 women took part across several clinics. Half the clinics used the program, and half provided standard care. …

This study tested a new MRI method to better predict stroke risk in people with intracranial atherosclerosis, a condition where arteries in the brain become narrowed. Researchers measured how well different parts of the brain responded to changes in blood flow. The goal was to fi…

This study looked at whether a simple home semen test can help couples find male fertility problems sooner. About 200 couples who were just starting to try for a baby used a home testing device. The goal was to see if it was easy to use and if it reduced stress while helping coup…

This study tested whether a simple outreach program could help more people with Medicare get their yearly free checkup. Researchers randomly assigned doctors and their patients to receive early or delayed reminders. The goal was to see if this approach could reduce racial and eth…

This study looked at whether a patient navigation program helps low-income women after childbirth. 405 women were assigned to either receive a navigator for one year or standard care. The goal was to see if the program improved things like attending checkups, getting birth contro…

This pilot study tested a computer tool that alerts pharmacists when heart failure patients are not taking their medications as directed. Only 3 pharmacists took part, and the goal was to see if the tool was practical and acceptable. Because it was so small, the results are not e…

This study tested whether simple electronic reminders in doctors' computer systems could reduce unnecessary tests and treatments for older adults. Researchers focused on three common issues: testing for bacteria in urine without symptoms, PSA tests for older men without prostate …

This study looked at whether a person's working memory should influence how hearing aids are set. Researchers tested 42 adults with hearing loss in a lab, adjusting two features: directional microphones and compression. Participants listened to sentences in noise from different d…

This study looked at whether giving metoclopramide before a planned C-section actually lowers stomach fluid, which is meant to prevent rare but serious aspiration during anesthesia. Researchers compared stomach volumes using ultrasound in 72 healthy women who received either the …