@Article{info:doi/10.2196/jmir.2392,
author="Xiao, Lan
and Huang, Qiwen
and Yank, Veronica
and Ma, Jun",
title="An Easily Accessible Web-Based Minimization Random Allocation System for Clinical Trials",
journal="J Med Internet Res",
year="2013",
month="Jul",
day="19",
volume="15",
number="7",
pages="e139",
keywords="randomized controlled trials; randomization; minimization; adaptive randomization; Kullback--Leibler divergence; Web-based",
abstract="Background: Minimization as an adaptive allocation technique has been recommended in the literature for use in randomized clinical trials. However, it remains uncommonly used due in part to a lack of easily accessible implementation tools. Objective: To provide clinical trialists with a robust, flexible, and readily accessible tool for implementing covariate-adaptive biased-coin randomization. Methods: We developed a Web-based random allocation system, MinimRan, that applies Pocock--Simon (for trials with 2 or more arms) and 2-way (currently limited to 2-arm trials) minimization methods for trials using only categorical prognostic factors or the symmetric Kullback--Leibler divergence minimization method for trials (currently limited to 2-arm trials) using continuous prognostic factors with or without categorical factors, in covariate-adaptive biased-coin randomization. Results: In this paper, we describe the system's essential statistical and computer programming features and provide as an example the randomization results generated by it in a recently completed trial. The system can be used in single- and double-blind trials as well as single-center and multicenter trials. Conclusions: We expect the system to facilitate the translation of the 3 validated random allocation methods into broad, efficient clinical research practice. ",
issn="14388871",
doi="10.2196/jmir.2392",
url="http://www.jmir.org/2013/7/e139/",
url="https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.2392",
url="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23872035"
}