Healthcare & Life Sciences

Dose-Response Effect of Phosphatidylserine on eSport Performance

NIH registered a new randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial (NCT07533032) evaluating daily phosphatidylserine supplementation at 100 mg or 200 mg doses in healthy adult gamers over 6 weeks. The study will measure electronic gaming performance, cognitive function, sleep quality, stress outcomes, and heart rate variability at baseline, Week 3, and Week 6. Enrollment includes approximately 75 participants assigned to three parallel groups.

Shouhui Tongbian Capsule Phase 3 OIC Trial in Cancer Patients

NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registered Phase 3 trial NCT07534995 for Shouhui Tongbian Capsule in treating opioid-induced constipation (OIC) in cancer patients. The prospective, multicenter, randomized, parallel-controlled superiority trial will evaluate symptom-relieving effects including defecation frequency, stool consistency, symptom scores, and quality of life. Primary efficacy endpoint is proportion of responders at week 2, defined as increase of at least 1 in average weekly spontaneous bowel movements. Safety endpoints include adverse event incidence and vital sign changes.

PGT-A Upgrade International Multicenter Observational Clinical Trial

The NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registry has recorded a new international multicenter observational clinical trial (NCT07533630) evaluating PGT-A upgrade testing for preimplantation genetic testing in assisted reproductive technology. The study will enroll patients from seven domestic and international centers to assess embryo utilization rates and clinical outcomes including birth defects following PGT-A upgrade testing. Patient enrollment is expected to be completed within one year.

JSKN016 Phase III Trial for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

NIH registered a Phase III clinical trial (NCT07533123) evaluating JSKN016 versus Treatment of Physician's Choice in patients with unresectable locally advanced, recurrent, or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) who have failed standard of care. The randomized trial will assess progression-free survival and overall survival as primary endpoints. Investigational interventions include JSKN016 Injection and multiple comparator chemotherapies including eribulin, vinorelbine, capecitabine, gemcitabine, and sacituzumab govitecan.

Brepocitinib Phase 2/3 Trial for Lichen Planopilaris in Adults

NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registered a Phase 2/3 study (NCT07532603) evaluating oral brepocitinib versus placebo in adults with lichen planopilaris. The trial will assess clinical safety and efficacy of the investigational drug. Registration posted April 16.

Texas Medical Board Suspends Physician Giraldi Over Public Threat

The Texas Medical Board temporarily suspended Dr. Rodolfo Garma Giraldi's medical license effective April 13, 2026, after finding his continuation in practice poses a continuing threat to public welfare. The suspension stems from his arrest and indictment for aiding or abetting the unlicensed practice of medicine, deviations from standard of care affecting 10 patients, and medical recordkeeping violations. The temporary suspension remains in place until the Board takes further action.

Fexuprazan 20mg Phase 4 Trial for NSAID-Induced Peptic Ulcer Prevention

NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registered a Phase 4 clinical trial (NCT07533266) for Fexuprazan 20mg as a preventive treatment for NSAID-induced peptic ulcers. The study will enroll participants using NSAIDs and compare the non-inferiority of Fexuprazan 20mg to Lansoprazole 15mg over 8 weeks. The trial is listed with an estimated start date and targets completion by April 2026.

Randomized Trial Comparing PTCD Catheter Removal vs Retention After Pancreaticoduodenectomy in Obstructive Jaundice

NIH registered a multicenter prospective randomized controlled trial (NCT07532759) comparing intraoperative PTCD catheter removal versus retention during pancreaticoduodenectomy in patients with obstructive jaundice. The trial will enroll participants with pancreatic head cancer, periampullary neoplasms, and biliary tract neoplasms to evaluate postoperative complications including bile leak and severe morbidity within 90 days.

Acute Amino Acid Response of Proprietary Beverages

The National Institutes of Health registered clinical trial NCT07534020 on ClinicalTrials.gov. The trial evaluates post-meal amino acid response to four proprietary protein beverage formulations (carbonated test protein beverage, standard protein beverage, control protein beverage, and Study Product D) in generally healthy adults.

Effect of Preoperative Sensory Modulation Room on Pain, Anxiety, and Sleep in Kidney Transplant Patients

NIH registered clinical trial NCT07533669 evaluating whether preoperative exposure to a sensory modulation room influences postoperative pain, anxiety, and sleep outcomes in adult living kidney donors and recipients. The prospective study compares participants receiving preoperative sensory modulation (intervention group) to those receiving standard preoperative care (control group). Estimated study completion date is April 16, 2026.

Phase 2 Study of LY4005130 for Severe Alopecia Areata

The National Institutes of Health has registered a Phase 2 clinical trial (NCT07533006) on ClinicalTrials.gov evaluating LY4005130, an investigational intravenous drug, in adults with severe alopecia areata. The approximately 48-week randomized controlled trial will assess efficacy, tolerability, safety, and pharmacokinetics of LY4005130 versus placebo. This registry entry provides public transparency on the clinical investigation but does not constitute regulatory approval, authorization, or impose compliance obligations.

Multicenter RCT: Laparoscopic Staging for Stage III Gastric Cancer

The NIH has registered a new multicenter randomized controlled trial (NCT07533825) on ClinicalTrials.gov investigating laparoscopic staging-guided therapy for patients with clinical stage III gastric cancer. The study will evaluate the impact on overall survival, surgical conversion rate, and peritoneal metastasis rate, comparing laparoscopic staging-guided therapy against treatment without laparoscopic exploration. Enrollment begins April 16, 2026.

Observational Trial of Unapproved/Uncleared FDA Device

NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registered observational trial NCT07533201 studying an unapproved or uncleared FDA device. The study is classified as observational, meaning researchers will collect data on device performance or safety outcomes without intervening. Registered April 16, 2026.

Primed to Thrive: Mindfulness and Meditation Trial for Workplace Well-Being

NIH registered an interventional clinical trial (NCT07534683) evaluating whether combining mindfulness education with daily guided meditation via smartphone application improves psychological well-being and workplace outcomes compared with education alone. Adult employees will be randomized to receive meditation plus educational materials or a waitlist control, with assessments over approximately 12 weeks using the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-9) as the primary outcome.

Study Investigates IBS During Fertility Treatments

The NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registry has posted a new observational study (NCT07533968) investigating the impact of fertility treatments on irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms in women. The study focuses on two cohorts: women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) beginning their first IVF cycle and women undergoing social egg freezing. Researchers will use questionnaires to track changes in IBS prevalence, severity, and associated anxiety and depression scores across multiple subgroups.

Respiratory and Haemodynamic Effects of Conscious Sedation With Dexmedetomidine for a TAVI Procedure

NIH registered clinical trial NCT07532733 comparing dexmedetomidine versus propofol with remifentanil for conscious sedation during transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). The study aims to evaluate intraoperative respiratory and hemodynamic tolerance in elderly patients with severe aortic stenosis. Trial status dated April 16, 2026.

Wyoming Launches Community Naloxone Resource Map

The Wyoming Department of Health announced the Community Naloxone Resource Map, an online tool helping residents find naloxone (Narcan) at no cost at local organizations. The map displays groups across Wyoming that provide free naloxone, which reverses opioid overdose effects. Organizations wishing to be included can request addition via a provided form, and businesses or groups can also order naloxone at no cost from WDH for emergency response or distribution.

Phase 4 Suzetrigine Trial for Opioid-Free Cesarean Recovery

NIH registered Phase 4 clinical trial NCT07534709 to evaluate suzetrigine as an adjunctive analgesic for opioid-free recovery following cesarean delivery. The randomized, placebo-controlled study will assess whether suzetrigine added to standard multimodal analgesia increases the proportion of patients remaining opioid-free through 72 hours post-surgery. Participants receive standardized pain management with acetaminophen, NSAIDs, and neuraxial morphine, with opioid rescue medication available for breakthrough pain.

ACSS Surgical Approaches and Dysphagia Comparison Study

NIH registered an observational clinical study (NCT07533864) comparing two anterior cervical spine surgery (ACSS) approaches—Smith-Robinson versus strap-splitting—for their effects on dysphagia (swallowing difficulties) and voice changes. The study will enroll participants assigned to either approach based on surgeon preference, with follow-up questionnaires assessing swallowing and speaking outcomes. This registry entry documents an active clinical investigation on a common spinal procedure with known swallowing-related complications.

Effect of Oral Probiotics on Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms and Quality of Life

NIH registered a clinical trial (NCT07532837) examining oral probiotics versus placebo for treating allergic rhinitis symptoms and quality of life. The study will evaluate Lactobacillus rhamnosus F-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri GL-104 in patients with allergic rhinitis, an inflammatory nasal condition affecting sleep, work productivity, and concentration.

Comparison of Maxillary Dental Expansion Using Smartee Clear Aligner With and Without S11 Expander: A Randomized Clinical Trial

The NIH's ClinicalTrials.gov has registered a randomized clinical trial (NCT07533682) comparing maxillary dental expansion using Smartee Clear Aligners with and without the S11 expander. The trial will use cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) to evaluate orthodontic expansion and tooth movement in patients with posterior crossbite requiring maxillary arch expansion.

FMT for Advanced Tumor Cachexia, Phase 2

NIH has registered a prospective, multicenter, single-arm Phase 2 clinical study (NCT07533227) to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) capsules in treating advanced tumor cachexia in cancer patients. The trial is listed on ClinicalTrials.gov as a reference document.

AI-Assisted 4-Week Psychodynamic and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Via Smartphone for Social Anxiety: Randomized Pilot Study (STePS-Ai)

NIH's ClinicalTrials.gov registered a new randomized pilot study comparing AI-assisted psychodynamic therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy delivered via smartphone for social anxiety disorder. The study will enroll participants in three arms: AI-guided psychodynamic therapy, AI-guided cognitive behavioral therapy, or waitlist control. Participants will complete weekly online questionnaires to monitor anxiety and mood changes over the 4-week intervention period.

Tafenoquine Combinations for Improved Radical Cure Efficacy of Plasmodium Vivax

NIH registered ClinicalTrials.gov Study NCT07533136, a Phase 4 trial evaluating tafenoquine-based combination therapies for radical cure of uncomplicated Plasmodium vivax malaria in Thai adults. The study compares dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine or artemether-lumefantrine with tafenoquine against chloroquine plus tafenoquine over a 6-month follow-up period to assess recurrence prevention efficacy.

Web-Based Mindful Parenting RCT for Adoptive Parents

A pilot randomized controlled trial evaluating AdoptMindful2Care@Web, a 9-module web-based post-adoption psychological intervention grounded in mindful parenting principles for adoptive parents, has been registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT07534111). The study targets parenting stress and positive mental health as primary outcomes using a web-based intervention delivery format. This registry entry documents the study design, conditions (Parenting Stress, Positive Mental Health), and intervention details for research transparency purposes.

Treatment of Cognitive and Sensorimotor Deficits in Parkinson's Disease With High Definition Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation

NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registered a Phase 1/2 interventional study (NCT07534397) evaluating high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) for treating cognitive and sensorimotor deficits in Parkinson's disease patients. The trial will enroll participants receiving either active tDCS or sham stimulation to assess effects on verbal retrieval, cognition, and motor control. Estimated start date is April 16, 2026.

Evaluation of the Effect of a PRECEDE-PROCEED Model-Based Laughter Yoga-Supported Education Program on Peer Bullying

NIH registered a clinical trial (NCT07534566) evaluating a laughter yoga-supported education program based on the PRECEDE-PROCEED Model to reduce peer bullying among adolescents. The study targets middle school students and examines effects on awareness of peer bullying and psychosocial well-being. The trial involves health education and laughter yoga interventions as comparators.

Information Collection: Religious Nonmedical Health Care Institutions and Transplant Programs Conditions of Participation

CMS announces an opportunity for public comment on two proposed information collections under the Paperwork Reduction Act. The first collection covers Religious Nonmedical Health Care Institutions (RNHCIs) Conditions of Participation with an estimated annual burden of 824 hours and cost of $38,113. The second covers Transplant Programs Conditions of Participation with an estimated annual burden of 3,340 hours and cost of $352,462. Comments must be received by the OMB desk officer by May 18, 2026.

Wilfactin Supply Tensions: Use Therapeutic Alternatives

ANSM has issued guidance advising healthcare professionals to limit use of Wilfactin (factor Willebrand) to emergency situations and prophylaxis for patients under 18 with contraindications to alternatives, due to ongoing supply tensions at manufacturer LFB. The agency provides a detailed table of therapeutic alternatives (Eqwilate, Voncento, Veyvondi) organized by indication and patient age group.

Disciplinary Records Database Access Notice

The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) provides public online access to its Reports of Decision database containing disciplinary orders issued by credentialing authorities since November 1998. Users must agree to terms acknowledging the database reflects information at a specific point in time, may contain discrepancies from original documents, and requires citing the LS case number, order date, and respondent name to obtain copies.

DOH Offers Review of Disciplinary Actions Based on Unconstitutional Drug Possession Statute

The Washington State Department of Health announced it will review adverse administrative actions taken against individuals where those actions were based solely or in part on convictions under RCW 69.50.4013(1), the simple drug possession statute ruled unconstitutional by the Washington Supreme Court in Washington v. Blake. Affected individuals may contact DOH at SCBlakeDecision@doh.wa.gov to request review of their case.

Early Pregnancy Behavioral Patterns and Gestational Diabetes Risk

NIH ClinicalTrials.gov has registered a prospective nested randomized pilot trial (NCT07534670) examining how early-pregnancy chronobehavioral patterns including sleep irregularity, physical activity, and meal timing influence continuous glucose dynamics and gestational diabetes mellitus risk. The TOFFFY substudy at KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore will enroll 140 pregnant women without pre-existing diabetes at 13 weeks gestation or less.

Pediatric Persistent Hypoglycemia Risk Factors at Sohag University Hospital

NIH registered a new observational clinical trial (NCT07533318) at Sohag University Hospital in Egypt studying endocrine, metabolic, and genetic risk factors of pediatric persistent hypoglycemia. The study will enroll 24 pediatric patients experiencing hypoglycemia beyond the first 3 days of life. Clinical investigators conducting pediatric metabolic research should be aware of this registry entry as part of ongoing surveillance of active hypoglycemia studies.

PRECISE Phenotyping to Guide Therapies for Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction

NIH's ClinicalTrials.gov registered a new Phase 3 clinical trial (NCT07533747) evaluating Empagliflozin 10mg for Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction (CMD). The trial aims to study heart energy metabolism in patients with CMD, a condition causing chest pain and shortness of breath without arterial blockages. No widely available proven treatments currently exist for CMD, making this a significant research effort targeting an unmet medical need.

Technology Addiction Linked to Adolescent Activity and Attention

NIH ClinicalTrials.gov has registered a new observational study (NCT07532720) examining the relationship between technology addiction and physical activity and attention levels in adolescents. The study evaluates whether higher levels of technology addiction are associated with lower physical activity and reduced attention. Conditions include Technology Addiction, Adolescent Health, and Attendance Level.

Thermal Spa Programme for Knee Osteoarthritis, 3-Week Study (NCT07534189)

The NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registry has registered a prospective cohort study (NCT07534189) evaluating a 3-week thermal spa treatment programme for patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. The study will assess knee joint movement using wearable inertial sensors (Xsens), along with secondary outcomes including pain, physical function, quality of life, and blood transcriptomic profiles. Participants will be evaluated at baseline, post-treatment, and at 3- and 12-month follow-up visits.

Diode Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy in Kidney Transplant Recipients

NIH has registered a new clinical trial (NCT07532694) on ClinicalTrials.gov evaluating diode laser-assisted non-surgical periodontal therapy in 80 kidney transplant recipients with periodontitis. The randomized controlled trial will compare scaling and root planing (SRP) with adjunctive diode laser therapy versus SRP alone. The study will assess clinical periodontal parameters, blood biomarkers, radiographic findings, and subgingival microbiome profiles at baseline and during follow-up through April 2026.

Modular Neurological Examination for Early Risk Detection

NIH's ClinicalTrials.gov registered observational study NCT07533162 to validate a modular neurological screening tool for infants. The study evaluates the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination (HINE) and a novel modular tool requiring approximately 15 minutes to administer, aimed at early identification of infants requiring further neurological evaluation. The research focuses on infants from birth to 24 months across both low and high-risk populations for neurological damage.

Internet-Based CBT for Anxiety and Depression, Singapore, NCT07532551

NIH's ClinicalTrials.gov has registered a clinical trial (NCT07532551) in Singapore evaluating Internet-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (iCBT) for adults with mild-to-moderate anxiety and/or depression. The randomized controlled trial will compare guided iCBT to usual care (traditional CBT) to assess clinical effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and acceptability. Participants will receive structured digital modules with therapist support. The trial is expected to complete in April 2026.

NECC Peer Support Observational Study for Neuroendocrine Cervical Cancer Patients

NIH registered an observational study (NCT07532954) titled 'The Impact Of A Patient Support Community On Patients With Neuroendocrine Cervical Cancer' on ClinicalTrials.gov. The study aims to learn about the effects of a participant support community on illness perception, emotional well-being, and feelings of isolation among participants with NECC using questionnaire-based interventions. No regulatory obligations or compliance requirements are imposed by this registry entry.

Kinesiophobia and Adhesive Capsulitis Observational Trial NCT07534527

NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registered observational study NCT07534527 investigating the relationship between kinesiophobia (fear of movement) and pain, range of motion, disability, and quality of life in patients with adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder). The study will involve physical examination and questionnaire-based assessment; no interventions are administered.

Holmium Laser Versus Conventional TURBT for Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: Randomized Controlled Trial, 100 Patients

NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registered a prospective randomized controlled trial (NCT07534631) comparing holmium laser en-bloc resection (HoLERBT) with conventional transurethral resection (cTURBT) for treatment of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. A total of 100 patients will be randomized 1:1. The primary outcome is quality of pathological specimen assessed by presence of detrusor muscle. Secondary outcomes include perioperative complications, operative time, obturator nerve reflex, bladder perforation, positive surgical margins, persistent disease at second-look TURBT, and recurrence rates at 3 and 12 months.

Therapeutic Touch and Acupressure on Depressive Symptoms (NCT07532512)

NIH ClinicalTrials.gov registered a new study (NCT07532512) investigating therapeutic touch and acupressure as interventions for mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms. The randomized controlled trial will enroll participants receiving either eight therapeutic touch sessions or eight acupressure sessions over four weeks. Acupressure points include Yintang (EX-HN3), Shenmen (HT7), and Neiguan (PC6).

CMS LEAD Model Creates Specialist ACO Participation Pathways

Benesch attorneys analyze CMS's Long-term Enhanced ACO Design (LEAD) Model, which creates new pathways for specialist physicians to participate in Medicare ACO programs beyond traditional fee-for-service arrangements. The model offers two participation options—Participant Provider (full ACO membership with shared savings/losses) or Preferred Provider (contract-based collaboration)—alongside flexible payment structures including Non-Primary Care Capitation and Advanced Payment Option.

CMS Finalizes Medicare Advantage and Part D 2027 Policies with 5.33% Growth Rate

CMS released a final rule and final rate notice for Medicare Advantage and Part D programs for contract year 2027. The final growth rate is 5.33%, up from the projected 4.97%, providing modest relief to MA plans. Key policy changes include removal of the Health Equity Index from Star Ratings, elimination of 11 of 12 proposed Star measure cuts, finalization of supplemental benefits debit-card provisions, and new marketing rules for agents and brokers. CMS also proposed risk model updates that would reduce MA risk scores by 3.32% in 2027, which stakeholders have challenged.

Healthcare Technology M&A Pulse Newsletter - April 2026

Bass, Berry & Sims PLC published its quarterly Healthcare Technology M&A Pulse Newsletter covering Q1 2026. The publication analyzes deal activity, regulatory developments, and trends at the intersection of healthcare and technology. This is a law firm newsletter providing market intelligence to clients and industry participants on digital health transactions.

Federal Circuit Affirms Noninfringement on Blood Culture Patents

The Federal Circuit affirmed judgment of noninfringement for Kurin, Inc. in a patent dispute with Magnolia Medical Technologies over blood culture contamination reduction devices. The court held that claim 1 of the '483 patent requires separate "seal member" and "vent" structures, and that "diverter" in the '001 patent is a means-plus-function term that Kurin's device does not satisfy.

Recent Disciplinary Actions by Quarter - Dentists and Dental Hygienists

The North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners posted recent disciplinary actions taken against licensed dentists and dental hygienists. Actions include consent orders, reprimands, summary license suspensions, indefinite suspensions, conditional reinstatements, and probations spanning Q1 2026 through Q4 2024. Disciplinary orders remain public records accessible via the Board's license verification system.

Mississippi Dental Practice Act, Regulations, and Ethics Codes

The Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners maintains an online resource page providing links to the Mississippi Dental Practice Act, regulations adopted by the board, public hearing guidelines, proposed amendments to board regulations, and ethics codes from the American Dental Association and American Dental Hygienists Association. The page serves as a central compliance resource for licensed dental professionals in Mississippi.

Public Disciplinary Orders Listed

Public Disciplinary Orders Listed