Penn State University

This study tested an online program called itMatters designed to reduce sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among college students. The program focuses on the link between drinking alcohol and risky sexual behavior, such as not using condoms. Over 3,000 first-year students fro…

This study evaluated a home-visiting program called Take Root Home Visitation (TRHV) for new parents in the Navy and Marine Corps. Researchers compared TRHV to standard services to see if it reduces child maltreatment risk and improves parenting and child development. Over 300 mi…

This study tested two audio-based programs to help reduce depression symptoms in adults. 101 people with at least moderate depression were randomly assigned to listen to either a behavioral activation program or a self-monitoring program. Depression levels were checked before, du…

This study tested a virtual navigation system that helps doctors guide a bronchoscope to lung nodules for sampling. Researchers compared results from 110 patients who used the system to historical data from standard procedures. The goal was to see if the system improves biopsy su…

This study looked at how well children ages 7 to 10 can sense and respond to internal body signals like hunger and fullness, and how that relates to their eating behaviors. Researchers measured how much kids ate when they weren't hungry and checked appetite-related hormones in sa…

This study tested a program called Promoting Positive Care Interactions (PPCI) in assisted living facilities. The goal was to see if it's feasible and acceptable to train staff—like nurses and housekeepers—to improve daily interactions with residents who have Alzheimer's or relat…

This completed study from Penn State University looked at how a strict 4-week ketogenic diet (very low carb, high fat) affects blood cholesterol and heart health in 25 healthy adults. Researchers compared people with a healthy BMI to those with obesity to see if the diet raises '…

This study looked at 76 children aged 8-10 from rural areas to understand why some stay at a healthy weight despite being surrounded by obesity risks. Researchers measured brain activity, eating habits, and body fat to see how kids learn from food cues. The goal is to find factor…

This study tested whether videos focusing on taste or health are more effective at encouraging adults to use herbs and spices when cooking. Over 500 US adults aged 18-75 who cook at home at least twice a week watched either taste-based or health-based nutrition videos. The goal w…

This pilot study tested whether a cooking-focused nutrition program helps adults ages 31-59 improve their eating habits compared to standard advice. 55 people who cook at home at least once a week took part. The goal was to see if the program is practical and liked by participant…

This study looked at how young men who have sex with men search for information about PrEP (a pill or shot that prevents HIV). About 314 participants browsed a mock Google results page, and researchers tracked which links they clicked and how long they stayed. The goal was to fin…

This study looked at whether sleeping at least an hour more each night for a week could help college students handle pain better. Thirty-six healthy young adults wore watches to track sleep and heart rate, and took pain tests (pressure and cold) before and after the sleep change.…

This study tested a program that teaches parents and preschool teachers how to encourage healthy eating in young children. About 1,461 families from low-income rural areas took part. The goal was to see if the training helps kids learn to control their own appetite and maintain a…

This study tested whether pleasant or unpleasant smells affect how much young adults eat in a virtual reality outdoor café in New York City. Twenty-five healthy people aged 18-29 ate a meal in VR while experiencing different scents. Researchers measured food intake and scent reac…