University Of Wisconsin, Madison

This study tested a Novavax COVID-19 booster vaccine in 21 people with weakened immune systems due to inflammatory bowel disease or organ transplants. The goal was to see if the booster improved antibody levels and immune protection against COVID-19. Participants had already rece…

This study tested whether offering smokers more frequent and personalized outreach, plus more treatment choices like nicotine patches and text support, helps more people quit compared to standard care. Over 12,000 adult smokers from 10 primary care clinics took part. The goal was…

This study tested different ways to help daily smokers quit by comparing two medications (varenicline and nicotine patches/lozenges), how long to take them before quitting, how long to continue after quitting, and the level of counseling. Over 500 smokers from primary care partic…

This study tested whether the drug abaloparatide (Tymlos) can reduce bone loss after total knee replacement in people with osteoporosis or osteopenia. 58 participants took the drug for 18 months. The main goal was to see if bone density around the new knee improved compared to be…

This study tested whether giving small weekly cash incentives (up to $300 total) for tracking what you eat and losing weight helps adults with obesity shed pounds. Over 700 participants were followed for 18 months. The goal was to see if these rewards lead to at least 5% weight l…

This early-phase study tested the safety of combining the immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab with precise, high-dose radiation (SBRT) to the liver in 15 adults with colorectal cancer that had spread only to the liver. The goal was to see if this combination could prevent the cancer…

This study tested a new way of coordinating care for rural patients with diabetic foot ulcers, who are at higher risk of major leg amputation. The model connects rural clinics with specialists to ensure patients receive timely, guideline-based treatment. Researchers compared outc…

This study tested a program called MOVIN that encourages older adults (65+) to walk while in the hospital. The goal was to prevent loss of function and reduce hospital readmissions. Researchers enrolled 765 patients and nurses on hospital units to see if changing the culture arou…

This study tested two smartphone apps designed to reduce risky drinking and its effects during the COVID-19 pandemic. One app focused on the drinker, the other on their family partner. About 400 pairs (a drinker and a family member) joined the 12-month study. The goal was to see …

This study tested a specific chemotherapy combination given before surgery for people with triple-negative breast cancer. The goal was to see if the treatment could completely eliminate the cancer from the breast and lymph nodes. 29 participants received the drugs, and the main o…

This study tested a program called Comprehensive Chronic Care (CCC) that uses regular phone calls, texts, and mailings to encourage smokers to quit. Nearly 1,000 adult smokers from primary care clinics were randomly assigned to receive either CCC or standard care (one annual offe…

This study tested two different smoking cessation treatments in 52 adult cancer patients who had been diagnosed within the past 3 years. One group received a 12-week course of the medication varenicline plus 7 counseling calls tailored to cancer patients. The other group received…

This study tested four health system strategies to encourage adult smokers who weren't ready to quit to start using evidence-based treatments. The strategies included small financial rewards, personalized mailings, proactive phone calls from a tobacco care manager, and free couns…

This study tested a new way to deliver radiation for prostate cancer. The goal was to give a higher dose to the tumor while protecting the urethra and other healthy tissue. 115 men with early-stage prostate cancer took part. The researchers looked at side effects and how well the…

This early-phase study tested an investigational drug called CLR 131, which delivers radiation directly to tumor cells, combined with standard external beam radiation. It enrolled 12 people with head and neck cancer that had returned after prior treatment. The main goal was to ch…

This study tested a new rapid test called SPOTFIRE ST for people with sore throats in urgent care. The test uses PCR to find up to 13 different viruses and bacteria in about 20 minutes. Researchers wanted to see if doctors find it useful, how accurate it is, and whether patients …

This completed study tested whether Rho AI software can accurately detect osteoporosis from X-ray images. Researchers used 800 de-identified images from patients who had joint or spine surgery. The goal was to see if the AI could correctly identify low bone density, which could h…

This study tested whether a special PET/MRI scan using a tracer called FFNP can accurately measure progesterone receptors in invasive breast cancer. Twenty-one women with breast tumors at least 1 cm in size took part. The goal was to see if the scan results match the standard lab…

This study tested whether intensive, face-to-face coaching on lifestyle changes and medication adherence could reduce strokes and mini-strokes in 120 high-risk Native American adults in Wisconsin. Participants received either intensive coaching or standard care, with regular heal…

This study tested whether a virtual-reality video game could help teenagers in the juvenile justice system better control their emotions. About 74 youth aged 13 to 17 played up to 6 VR sessions. Researchers measured how much participants enjoyed the experience and tracked changes…

This early study tested whether injecting a patient's own stem cells into the saliva gland could safely help dry mouth caused by radiation therapy for head and neck cancer. Six participants received one injection, with a second offered later. The main goal was to check for side e…

This study looked at whether a 10-week supervised physical activity program is practical and well-liked by mothers of children with developmental disabilities. Nineteen mothers were enrolled to attend three 60-minute group exercise sessions per week. The goal was to see if the pr…

This study tested whether tongue-strengthening exercises using a special device could improve swallowing in people with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. 76 participants with mild to moderate dementia did exercises over 8 weeks. The goal was to reduce food or liquid goin…

This study tested a group therapy called Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for incarcerated men and women with PTSD. 117 participants were either given the therapy or placed on a waitlist. The main goal was to see if the therapy reduced PTSD symptoms, with secondary goals of red…

This study tested whether using a mindfulness app for 8 weeks could improve quality of life and reduce anxiety and depression in 128 adults after hip preservation surgery. Participants used the Healthy Minds Program app, which teaches skills like mindful attention and connection.…

This study tested a smoking cessation program for caregivers of children admitted to American Family Children's Hospital. 23 caregivers received a 20-minute counseling session and used nicotine patches and lozenges for 2 weeks. The goal was to see if caregivers would use the prog…

This study tested a new approach: having people with major depressive disorder do 30 minutes of moderate exercise right before a therapy session. 40 adults were split into two groups: one exercised on a stationary bike, the other watched nature videos. The goal was to see if exer…

This study tested two different laser systems to break up kidney stones during a procedure called ureteroscopy. About 178 adults with kidney stones took part. The goal was to see which laser clears stones more completely and safely.

This study tested whether a 6-month in-home cycling program, combined with social engagement and coaching calls, can improve daily function and sleep in people with Parkinson disease. Fourteen participants cycled at home with staff support and received follow-up calls. The goal w…

This study tested whether a group therapy program for PTSD, led by people who have themselves been incarcerated, is helpful and practical. Fifty-nine adults who had completed a prison or jail sentence and had PTSD symptoms took part in a 12-session cognitive processing therapy gr…

This study tested whether a 12-week training program (called the Integrated Stress Toolbox) could help healthcare workers in Mexico feel less stressed and burned out. Over 2,300 participants were randomly assigned to either the training or a waitlist. The training included an app…

This study tested a short video and a 3-week text messaging program for adults who recently experienced sexual assault. The goal was to see if these tools could help prevent or reduce posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and opioid misuse. Fifty participants received the video du…

This pilot study tested whether osteopathic manual treatment (OMT) — a gentle, hands-on therapy — is safe and feasible for stroke survivors with shoulder pain on their affected side. Only 3 adults who had a first-time stroke in the past 5 years took part. They received either OMT…

This study tested whether a brain-computer interface (BCI) system could help stroke survivors recover arm function. 84 participants with arm weakness after a stroke used the BCI to control muscle stimulation with their brain signals. The study measured improvements in arm movemen…

This study tested a physical activity program for breast and endometrial cancer survivors who were not getting enough exercise. Participants started with a Fitbit activity tracker linked to their electronic health record, and those who did not improve were offered extra support l…

This study tested a free smartphone app called the Healthy Minds Program (HMP) in over 1,100 US adults with mild to moderate depression. Participants used the app for 4 weeks and were compared to those who received only educational content or were placed on a waitlist. The goal w…

This completed Phase 2 study tested whether a special PET scan using a tracer called UCB-J can measure synaptic density—the connections between brain cells—in people with Alzheimer's disease. Researchers scanned 100 participants across different stages, from healthy to dementia, …

This study looks at whether offering personalized help from navigators—professionals who assist with Medicaid renewal—can increase the number of people who keep their coverage. Over 119,000 Wisconsin residents on fee-for-service Medicaid are included. The researchers randomly ass…

This completed Phase 1 study tested whether a PET scan using 64Cu-DOTATATE (Detectnet) can help doctors plan safer doses of Lutathera therapy for people with neuroendocrine tumors. Four participants received both standard Lutathera treatment and extra PET/CT and SPECT/CT scans to…

This study tested whether adding special preservatives to human milk can keep the RNA intact during shipping. Fifty breastfeeding women in Wisconsin provided samples mixed with one of two preservatives. The goal was to develop a reliable method for remote collection, so researche…

This study looked at whether a voice-based smart display helps older adults (60+) with multiple chronic conditions use a health app more than a laptop with text. The app, ElderTree, provides tools, support, and tracking to help manage health. Researchers measured changes in physi…

This study compared two different eye imaging machines (Clarus and Optos) to see how well they measure geographic atrophy, a form of vision loss from age-related macular degeneration. Researchers enrolled 62 patients and took images with each device, then compared the measurement…

This study tested whether a parent-led program could reduce racial biases in White children ages 5 to 8. Over 700 families took part, with parents receiving training and tools to address bias. Researchers measured changes in both parents' and children's attitudes and behaviors.

This completed early-phase study looked at how sex and stress influence blood flow in the brain. Researchers gave 42 healthy young adults indomethacin (an anti-inflammatory drug) or a placebo to test whether a specific mechanism (COX signaling) explains differences between men an…

This completed study interviewed 10 older adults who visited the emergency department and were flagged by an automated system as being at high risk for future falls. The goal was to learn why some patients did not follow up with a falls clinic referral. The findings will help imp…

This study explored whether teaching forgiveness can improve psychological health in first- and second-year college students. Researchers measured changes in well-being, self-esteem, anger, anxiety, hope, and bullying experiences. The study involved 40 students who completed surv…

This study looked at whether a lung ultrasound score can help doctors decide when to safely remove a breathing tube from newborn babies with breathing problems. 71 infants in the NICU had an ultrasound before and after their breathing tube was removed. The goal was to see if the …

This study looked at how exercise changes body image, mood, and certain blood markers in young women aged 16-25 with restrictive eating disorders. Researchers measured responses during lab-based exercise and rest. The goal is to better understand driven exercise—a common symptom—…

This study tested a communication tool called 'Best Case/Worst Case' for older adults with advanced kidney disease. Doctors were trained to discuss best, worst, and most likely outcomes for treatment options. The goal was to see if this approach helps patients receive more pallia…

This study tested whether gentle electrical brain stimulation during sleep, combined with daily meditation exercises, can improve how flexibly people think and how well they regulate their emotions. 64 healthy adults participated over up to 9 months. The goal was to see if these …

This study tested a program called REASSURE to help low-risk breast cancer survivors feel more prepared for their follow-up care. About 104 survivors took part for up to 18 months. The goal was to see if the program improved their confidence and reduced unnecessary care.

This early study looked at how two approved constipation drugs, plecanatide and linaclotide, affect a chemical called cGMP in the small intestine. Researchers compared tissue samples from 43 adults with Barrett esophagus or GERD who took either drug or no drug. The goal was to me…

This study looked at whether using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is better than standard finger-prick checks for managing blood sugar in pregnant women with type 2 diabetes. Sixteen women participated, and researchers measured how well blood sugar stayed in a healthy range a…

This study tested whether a tool called DRIVESC can detect alcohol-related impairment in healthy adults. 22 participants completed driving tasks at different alcohol levels. The goal was to see if the tool could reliably measure changes in driving ability.

This completed study looked at why Native Americans in Wisconsin have higher stroke risk. Nineteen adults aged 55-90 from the Oneida Nation received an MRI, a carotid ultrasound, and cognitive tests. The goal was to see how stroke risk factors relate to brain health, such as brai…

This study tested a program called TECH-Prep designed to help African American high school students and young adults with developmental disabilities explore careers in technology. The program included training and internships to increase interest in tech jobs, confidence, and rea…

This study tested whether gentle electrical stimulation during naps can increase certain brain waves linked to emotional health. 72 healthy adults who nap regularly took part. Researchers measured brain activity, mood, and alertness to see if the stimulation helped. The goal was …

This small pilot study tested whether special PET scans (FLT PET/CT) could detect early signs that immunotherapy is working in people with advanced melanoma. Five participants received standard immunotherapy drugs (pembrolizumab or nivolumab) and had scans, blood tests, and tumor…

This study looked at whether children who grow up on farms, with more exposure to microbes, have fewer severe colds and breathing problems. Researchers tracked 290 children aged 4 to 12, including farm kids and city kids with and without asthma. The goal was to understand how ear…

This study tested how well vitamin A is absorbed from fortified bouillon cubes compared to an oil-based supplement. Fifty-eight healthy women consumed different vitamin A formulations in broth, and researchers measured vitamin levels in their blood. The goal is to see if adding v…

This completed study looked at 62 people with patellar tendon injuries to see if a special MRI technique called diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) can better measure tendon structure. Participants had MRI and ultrasound scans, did knee function tests, and filled out questionnaires. T…

This study looked at how pigments in different colored carrots (red, purple-red, and purple) affect the body's absorption of vitamin A and other nutrients. Twelve healthy adults drank each type of carrot juice over several weeks, and researchers measured changes in their blood. T…

This study tested how different lower-limb prostheses and orthoses affect movement during daily life. Twenty participants with lower-limb amputation or drop foot wore each device for a period while sensors tracked their walking. The goal was to compare devices and improve how we …

This study tested a program called CJC-TraC, where a nurse case manager helps incarcerated individuals with HIV, hepatitis C, or substance use disorder prepare for release and connect to community healthcare. The program involved up to 4 in-person or telehealth visits before rele…

This study explores how parents' own language skills influence the quality of early language interactions with their children, especially those with language delays or autism. Researchers trained 156 parents using a program called Enhanced Milieu Teaching, which teaches responsiv…

This study tested whether a thin, flexible tube with pressure sensors (high-resolution manometry) can pinpoint where the airway gets blocked during sleep in people with obstructive sleep apnea. 18 adults and children underwent both the standard scope test and the new tube method.…

This study tested whether a tool called "Best Case/Worst Case" helps doctors have better conversations with severely injured older adults (age 50+) and their families about treatment options. Researchers compared communication quality before and after surgeons learned to use the …

This study tested a thin, pressure-sensing tube placed in the throat to measure swallowing in people with difficulty swallowing (dysphagia). Researchers followed 4 participants as they underwent standard swallowing therapy, comparing results to healthy controls. The goal was to s…

This study developed a computer program that can scan hospital records to find patients who may be misusing drugs or alcohol. Researchers tested it on nearly 65,000 adults admitted to the hospital. The goal was to see if the tool could help doctors offer counseling and support to…

This early-phase study with 5 adults looked at how two cannabis compounds (delta-9-THC and delta-8-THC) affect driving ability. Participants took the compounds and then used a driving simulator and field sobriety tests. The goal was to see if it's possible to measure impairment a…