TY  - JOUR
AU  - Xiao, Lan
AU  - Huang, Qiwen
AU  - Yank, Veronica
AU  - Ma, Jun
PY  - 2013
DA  - 2013/07/19
TI  - An Easily Accessible Web-Based Minimization Random Allocation System for Clinical Trials
JO  - J Med Internet Res
SP  - e139
VL  - 15
IS  - 7
KW  - randomized controlled trials
KW  - randomization
KW  - minimization
KW  - adaptive randomization
KW  - Kullback–Leibler divergence
KW  - Web-based
AB  - 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. 
SN  - 14388871
UR  - http://www.jmir.org/2013/7/e139/
UR  - https://doi.org/10.2196/jmir.2392
UR  - http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23872035
DO  - 10.2196/jmir.2392
ID  - info:doi/10.2196/jmir.2392
ER  -