Penn State University

This trial investigates whether simvastatin (a cholesterol-lowering drug) or Duavee (a hormone therapy) can improve blood vessel function in women aged 18–45 with endometriosis. Endometriosis is linked to higher heart disease risk, possibly due to inflammation. The study measures…

This study compares the effects of oral contraceptive pills and a contraceptive vaginal ring on bone turnover in young, exercising women aged 18-25. Using a special calcium tracer, researchers measure how each method changes bone calcium balance over 49 days. The goal is to under…

This study tests whether eating dried plums (prunes) every day for a year can improve bone density and strength in postmenopausal women with low bone mass. Participants eat either 6 or 12 dried plums daily, plus calcium and vitamin D supplements. Researchers measure changes in bo…

This study compares two treatments for back pain caused by facet joints in the spine. The standard treatment, radiofrequency ablation, can damage nearby muscles. The new approach, peripheral nerve stimulation, may relieve pain without that side effect. Researchers will measure pa…

This study explores how natural compounds found in mint, chili peppers, and camphor affect blood flow and sensation in the skin. Healthy adults aged 18 to 85 will have small amounts of these substances applied to their skin to measure how their nerves and blood vessels respond. T…

This study tests two low-cost methods to help junior doctors in India prescribe antibiotics only when needed. One method requires doctors to write the diagnosis on the prescription; the other gives them feedback on their prescribing habits. The goal is to reduce unnecessary antib…

This study tests two simple interventions for community pharmacies in Ghana: giving them personalized feedback on their antibiotic dispensing habits, and sending a legal reminder that dispensing antibiotics without a prescription is against the law. Researchers will measure wheth…

This study aimed to test three online lessons designed to help caregivers of children ages 2-16 improve how they feed their kids. It was for English-speaking adults with internet access who were the main caregiver. The study was withdrawn before any participants joined, so no res…

This study looks at whether serving potatoes with vegetables—either mixed together or as a first course—can help preschoolers eat more veggies and avoid overeating. About 200 children aged 2-6 from Head Start classrooms will participate. Researchers will measure how much vegetabl…

This study looks at whether a nutrition program in low-income preschools can help children learn about, accept, and eat more vegetables. About 100 children and their teachers will take part. The program uses lessons, repeated tasting, and fun dips to make veggies more appealing.

This study tests two simple approaches to encourage women in rural Ghana to get screened for breast cancer. One approach offers breast cancer screening alongside checks for diabetes and high blood pressure. The other involves sessions with men to change attitudes and increase sup…

This study aimed to see if iron deficiency in new mothers is linked to depression and poorer interactions with their babies. Researchers planned to compare iron-deficient and iron-sufficient mothers using video-recorded play sessions. However, the study was withdrawn before any p…