Clinical trials

Acupoint catgut embedding and laser acupuncture have each been studied as treatments for obesity in adults, but the two have not been evaluated in combination, and few trials have measured anthropometric, biochemical, and blood pressure outcomes together. This single-center randomized sham-controlled trial plans to enroll 120 adults aged 20 to 65 years with obesity. All participants receive the same acupoint catgut embedding with poliglecaprone 25 absorbable suture at 15 acupoints, comprising 25 insertions, once every 2 weeks for 6 sessions over 12 weeks. Participants are randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive, immediately before each embedding session, either active 810 nm laser acupuncture or sham laser acupuncture delivered with a device that is identical in appearance, indicator light, and operating sound but emits no therapeutic energy. Both groups also receive standardized dietary and exercise counseling. Because the acupoint embedding regimen is identical in both groups and the groups differ only in whether the laser emits energy, the comparison estimates the incremental effect of laser acupuncture added to acupoint embedding. Participants are treated for 12 weeks and then followed for a further 12 weeks, to Week 24.

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if laser acupuncture (low-level laser therapy) works to treat fatigue and improve quality of life in adults with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing hemodialysis. It will also learn about how laser acupuncture affects blood circulation and autonomic nervous system balance. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. Does laser acupuncture reduce the severity of fatigue and its interference with daily life? 2. Can laser acupuncture improve related symptoms such as insomnia, poor appetite, and skin itching? 3. How does laser acupuncture affect objective markers like microcirculation and heart rate variability? Researchers will compare laser acupuncture to a sham treatment (a look-alike procedure using a device that does not emit a laser) to see if laser acupuncture works to treat fatigue. Participants will: 1. Receive laser acupuncture or a sham treatment during their regular hemodialysis sessions 3 times a week for 4 weeks. 2. Have their fatigue and life quality assessed through questionnaires on the first day, at 4 weeks, and at 8 weeks. 3. Undergo non-invasive tests to measure microcirculation, heart rate variability, and pulse waves, and have photos of their tongue taken for Chinese medicine assessment.

The goal of this study is to evaluate the impact of the "Traditional Chinese Medicine Therapy Program for Reinforcing Vital Energy" on patients with breast cancer who are currently undergoing conventional Western medical treatments in Taiwan. The main questions it aims to answer are: Can the "Traditional Chinese Medicine Therapy Program" alleviate symptoms experienced by breast cancer patients? Does the program improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients receiving Western medical treatments? How does the program contribute to the management of side effects associated with Western oncological therapies? Participants will: Engage in the "Traditional Chinese Medicine Therapy Program for Reinforcing Vital Energy" provided by the Taiwan Compassionate Cancer Care Association. Receive supportive and educational services, including auxiliary Chinese medicine treatment courses, lifestyle and health education, and psychological counseling. This study seeks to integrate the concept of holistic healthcare, emphasizing coordinated care that encompasses physical, mental, and social aspects, into the treatment of breast cancer.

The goal of this clinical trial is to investigate the efficacy of theta burst stimulation in individuals with gambling disorder. The main goal is to compare the severity of gambling problems following 2 weeks of intervention between active group and sham group. Participants will be randomized into active and sham group. The severity of gambling problems are assessed by self-reported questionaires.

The goal of this clinical trial is to investigate the effect of theta burst stimulation for depression and serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in individuals with major depression. The main question it aims to answer is whether 10 sessions of theta burst stimulation can influence the serum level of BDNF. Participants will be randomized into active group and sham group. Researchers will compare the level of BDNF in these groups.

The goal of thisclinical trial is to investigate the efficacy of trans cranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) for alcohol craving in individuals with alcohol dependence. The main question it aims to answer is whether 10 sessions of tDCS can reduce craving for alcohol. Participants will be randomized into active group and sham group. Researchers will compare the severity of craving in these groups.