Clinical trials

This study was designed to investigate the effects of a person-centered occupational therapy approach on quality of life and occupational balance among community-dwelling older adults. The study is a randomized controlled trial utilizing semi-structured interviews and self-report measures. The target population consists of individuals aged 65 years and older living in Istanbul. The sample size was calculated using G\*Power software, indicating a minimum of 77 participants per group, for a total of 154 participants. Considering potential attrition, a total sample of 170 participants is planned. Data will be collected using a Sociodemographic Information Form, the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Occupational Performance History Interview-II (OPHI-II), Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS), the World Health Organization Quality of Life Instrument-Older Adults Module (WHOQOL-OLD), and the Activity-Role Balance Questionnaire. Cognitive eligibility will be assessed using the MMSE, and individuals scoring 24 or higher will be included in the study. Through the OPHI-II, participants' life histories, roles, habits, and experiences related to daily activities will be explored, and individualized goals will be identified based on the information obtained. These goals will subsequently be structured using the Goal Attainment Scaling method. Participants will be randomly allocated to either the intervention group or the control group. Participants in the intervention group will receive person-centered occupational therapy sessions delivered via telerehabilitation, while those in the control group will continue their usual daily routines without additional support. At the end of the study, outcomes related to quality of life and occupational balance will be compared between groups. The findings are expected to provide evidence regarding the role of a person-centered occupational therapy approach in supporting participation in daily life activities among older adults.

Sleep problems may affect individuals' daily functioning, emotional well-being, cognitive performance, and quality of life. Non-pharmacological approaches, including sleep hygiene education, sensory-based strategies, and behavioral relaxation techniques, may help individuals develop healthier sleep routines. However, studies directly comparing sensory-based and behavioral approaches are limited. The aim of this randomized controlled study is to compare the effects of sensory-based and behavioral sleep interventions in adults experiencing poor sleep quality. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups: a sleep hygiene education group, a sensory-based intervention group, or a behavioral intervention group. All participants receive a standardized six-week sleep hygiene education program. In addition, the sensory-based intervention group uses aromatherapy and pink noise, while the behavioral intervention group practices progressive muscle relaxation and diaphragmatic breathing exercises. Participants are assessed before and after the six-week intervention period. The study examines changes in sleep quality and sleep-related behaviors, as well as anxiety, quality of life, activity-role balance, sensory processing characteristics, autonomic nervous system activity, and sleep parameters. The study is expected to provide information about the potential contribution of sensory-based and behavioral strategies to the management of sleep problems.

This randomized controlled study was designed to compare the effects of Warm Foot Bath, ShotBlocker®, and Buzzy®-applied prior to heel lance-on the vital signs of newborns. Heel lance is one of the most frequently performed invasive procedures during the neonatal period, and the pain and stress experienced during the procedure may lead to alterations in vital parameters such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation. Therefore, identifying non-pharmacological, safe, and feasible pain management methods is essential for enhancing the quality of nursing care. Data will be collected at three time points: before, during, and after the procedure, and changes in heart rate, respiratory rate, and SpO₂ will be recorded. With parental consent, the procedure will be video-recorded before, during, and after heel lance; the recordings will be anonymized and shared with experts for pain assessment. Additionally, the infant's crying duration and time to bleeding cessation will also be evaluated.

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn whether three different instructional strategies improve learning outcomes and knowledge retention in nursing students receiving education on peritoneal dialysis catheter care. The main questions it aims to answer are: Does Pecha Kucha-based education improve students' knowledge of peritoneal dialysis catheter care compared with concept map-based education and traditional education? Do the three instructional strategies differ in terms of knowledge retention, learning satisfaction, learning experience, and perceived cognitive load? Researchers will compare Pecha Kucha-based education, concept map-based education, and traditional education to see which instructional strategy is more effective in improving students' knowledge, supporting knowledge retention, and providing a positive learning experience. Participants will: Complete a pre-test before the education. Receive one of three educational interventions on peritoneal dialysis catheter care: Pecha Kucha-based education, concept map-based education, or traditional education. Complete a post-test after the education. Complete forms evaluating learning satisfaction, learning experience, and perceived cognitive load. Complete a follow-up knowledge test to assess knowledge retention.

This study aims to evaluate the effect of midwife-led antenatal perineal massage education on pregnancy empowerment, self-efficacy for normal birth, and fear of childbirth among primiparous pregnant women. The study is designed as a controlled quasi-experimental study and will be conducted at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Outpatient Clinic of Silifke State Hospital in Mersin, Turkey. Eligible participants will be primiparous pregnant women aged 18-35 years, between 28 and 34 weeks of gestation, with a singleton pregnancy and a plan for vaginal birth. Participants in the intervention group will receive structured antenatal perineal massage education led by a midwife, in addition to routine antenatal care. Participants in the control group will receive routine antenatal care. The primary outcome will be pregnancy empowerment. Secondary outcomes will include self-efficacy for normal birth, fear of childbirth, knowledge and preferences regarding antenatal perineal massage, and adherence to antenatal perineal massage practice.

Objective: This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the impact of guided imagery exercises on surgical fear and perioperative comfort in patients undergoing Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP). Background: Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) remains the gold standard surgical treatment for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). Despite its efficacy, a significant majority of patients (60-80%) experience substantial surgical fear, which can negatively affect their recovery and perioperative comfort. Guided imagery is a non-pharmacological, cognitive-behavioral technique that utilizes mental visualization to activate the mind-body connection, reduce sympathetic activity, and promote relaxation. Methods: Grounded in Kolcaba's Comfort Theory, this study investigates the relationship between guided imagery and the multi-dimensional aspects of patient comfort (physical, psycho-spiritual, environmental, and socio-cultural). The intervention group will receive structured guided imagery sessions designed to reduce physiological stress responses and enhance emotional regulation, while the control group will receive standard care.

This prospective observational study aims to functionally characterize chemotherapy resistance in patients with locally advanced breast cancer undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Despite standard molecular classification, significant heterogeneity in treatment response exists, and the biological mechanisms underlying chemoresistance remain incompletely understood. In this study, patient-derived organoid (PDO) models will be established from tumor tissues obtained during routine clinical care. These three-dimensional models preserve the biological characteristics of individual tumors and enable ex vivo functional assessment of drug response. Chemotherapy sensitivity and resistance will be evaluated using quantitative parameters including Half-Maximal Inhibitory Concentration (IC50) values, cell viability, and apoptotic response. Functional data obtained from PDO models will be correlated with clinical and pathological treatment outcomes, particularly pathological complete response (pCR), to assess the predictive value of PDO-based assays. In addition, apoptotic biomarkers such as Caspase-3/7 will be measured in serum samples collected during routine clinical evaluation and analyzed in relation to treatment response. Furthermore, selected Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) approved small molecules will be tested in PDO models to evaluate their potential to reverse chemotherapy resistance, supporting drug repurposing strategies. This study aims to establish a functional, patient-specific platform for assessing chemoresistance and to contribute to the development of personalized therapeutic approaches in breast cancer.

This observational study aims to evaluate the prevalence, severity, and characteristics of neck musculoskeletal symptoms among Turkish endodontists. Endodontists are exposed to prolonged static postures and repetitive movements during clinical procedures, which may increase the risk of neck-related disorders. Participants will be asked to complete questionnaires regarding demographic characteristics, occupational factors, ergonomic conditions, and neck pain. In addition, physical assessments including cervical range of motion, muscle strength, endurance, posture, and proprioception will be performed using validated measurement tools. The study also aims to identify factors associated with neck pain, such as working conditions, posture, and clinical experience. The findings may help improve preventive strategies, ergonomic recommendations, and rehabilitation approaches for dental professionals.

Early recognition of physical abuse in children is essential for ensuring child safety and preventing further harm. However, distinguishing abuse-related injuries from accidental findings can be challenging, especially for nursing students who have limited clinical experience. Simulation-based educational methods may provide safe and effective environments for developing these skills. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of moulage-based simulation training in improving nursing students' ability to recognize signs of physical abuse in children. The study will use a randomized controlled design in which students will be assigned to either a moulage-based simulation group or a control group receiving standard theoretical education. After a lecture on child physical abuse within the Child Health and Pediatric Nursing course, students will participate in laboratory practice sessions. The intervention group will assess a pediatric mannequin prepared with simulated abuse findings using moulage techniques. Students' knowledge and recognition of physical abuse indicators will be evaluated before and after the intervention. The study seeks to determine whether moulage-based education improves nursing students' recognition of physical abuse findings and supports the development of clinical assessment skills.

This prospective observational study aims to investigate subtype-specific circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) and their association with response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in patients with breast cancer. Serum samples will be collected before NAC and prior to surgery, and changes in miRNA expression levels will be evaluated. Pathological complete response (pCR) and Miller-Payne scoring will be used to assess treatment response after NAC. The study also explores whether changes in circulating miRNA profiles can predict treatment response across different breast cancer subtypes. The findings may help identify biomarkers that support treatment planning and personalized therapy strategies.

This prospective observational study aims to evaluate whether exosomal microRNA profiles derived from tumor tissue and blood serum are associated with pathological complete response (pCR) to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in patients with breast cancer. Breast cancer patients with similar clinical and pathological features may respond differently to treatment, underscoring the need for reliable biomarkers that can help predict therapeutic outcomes. Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles released by tumor cells that carry molecular signals, including microRNAs, which may reflect tumor behavior and treatment sensitivity. In this study, patients with breast cancer receiving standard NAC as part of routine clinical care will be followed prospectively. Exosomal microRNA profiles obtained from tumor tissue and blood samples collected during routine diagnostic and treatment procedures will be analyzed and compared with pathological complete response (pCR) assessed after completion of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. A group of patients with benign breast disease will be included as a reference control for comparative analyses. The results of this study may contribute to the identification of minimally invasive biomarkers that support personalized treatment strategies in breast cancer.

This study aims to compare the effects of two different ankle taping methods-kinesio taping and dynamic taping-on balance, vertical jump performance, and reaction time in basketball players. Basketball involves frequent jumping, rapid changes in direction, and single-leg balance tasks that place substantial demands on ankle stability. Reduced ankle stability may negatively affect athletic performance and increase injury risk. Taping methods are commonly used in sports settings to support the ankle joint and enhance functional performance; however, limited comparative evidence exists in basketball players. In this non-randomized, fixed-sequence crossover study, healthy male basketball players aged 18 to 30 years will receive both kinesio taping and dynamic taping applications separated by a one-week interval. Kinesio taping will be applied during the first session and dynamic taping during the second session. Each participant will serve as their own control. Performance assessments will be conducted immediately before and after each taping application. Outcome measures include dynamic balance assessed using the Y-Balance Test, vertical jump performance assessed using a mobile application-based jump test, and lower extremity visuomotor reaction time assessed using a visual stimulus-response task. All procedures are non-invasive and associated with minimal risk. The findings are expected to contribute to evidence-based taping strategies aimed at improving athletic performance and supporting ankle function in basketball players.

This prospective observational study aims to evaluate serum levels of PTEN, a tumor suppressor gene, and organ-specific microRNAs (miRNAs) associated with metastatic patterns in breast cancer. Serum samples will be analyzed using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR)-based miRNA profiling and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)-based PTEN quantification. Three groups will be included: patients with metastatic breast cancer (n=80), patients with non-metastatic early-stage breast cancer (n=40), and healthy controls (n=40). The primary objective is to identify serum biomarkers that differentiate metastatic from non-metastatic disease. Secondary analyses will evaluate correlations between biomarker levels and organ-specific metastatic involvement, including bone, lung, liver, and brain metastases. Findings from this study may support the development of a noninvasive serum-based tool for predicting metastatic patterns in breast cancer.

This study will look at whether a reduced-calorie Mediterranean-style eating plan, together with a synbiotic supplement, can improve health measures and quality of life in women who have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and are overweight or have obesity. Participants will be assigned by chance (like flipping a coin) to receive either the synbiotic supplement or a placebo (a look-alike product with no active ingredients). All participants will follow the same reduced-calorie Mediterranean diet for 8 weeks. The study team will measure body composition and weight-related measurements, and will collect blood samples to evaluate selected laboratory markers before and after the 8-week period. Participants will also complete the PCOSQ-50 quality-of-life questionnaire before and after the intervention. The goal is to better understand the possible role of synbiotic supplementation alongside dietary treatment in PCOS.

This randomized controlled study aims to investigate the acute effects of a single session of core stabilization exercises on balance and upper extremity functional performance in competitive archers. Core stability is essential for postural control, neuromuscular coordination, and efficient force transfer during archery shooting. Understanding the immediate effects of core stabilization exercises may support their use as an effective warm-up and performance-enhancing strategy in archery athletes.

Our study aims to develop a personalized interactive digital breathing game and device that can be produced in our country and to provide daily airway cleaning treatment at home via mobile phone or computer without the need for a physiotherapist or healthcare professional with the use of an interactive digital breathing game.

Fear of childbirth can be defined as approaching the process of giving birth with fear and anxiety. The aim of prenatal education is to help expectant mothers develop positive feelings towards childbirth and to foster a sense of security.

The purpose of breathing exercises or the use of assistive devices is to provide deep breathing after surgery and to obtain a normal breathing pattern. The purpose of choosing the method to be applied is to obtain the best result. The results of the few studies conducted on this subject are contradictory and insufficient. In this context, the purpose of this study is to compare the effects of using only triflow and using triflow together with deep breathing and cough exercises on postoperative respiratory functions in patients who underwent simultaneous tricuspid valve surgery for mitral valve.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is one of the commonly used surgical treatment methods for gallbladder diseases. However, many patients experience significant nausea and vomiting after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. It is observed that approximately 20% to 30% of patients experience postoperative nausea and vomiting as the most common complaint after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of periorbital massage in postoperative nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of the reborn lifestyle regulation program on physical activity, fatigue level, pain, mental health burden and quality of life in breast cancer patients.