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Engine failures: A critical analysis of current clinical trial (CT) websites' search engines
No full text['UNSDG 3: Good Health and Well-being (https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal3)', 'UNSDG 10: Reduced Inequalities (https://sdgs.un.org/goals/goal10)']Viable, Healthy and Safe CommunitiesBackground: Clinical trials are critical to treatment advancement as they provide a foundation for future progression. The existing clinical trial search system is composed of websites through which one can find recruiting clinical trials that a patient may be eligible for. Currently, only 7% of cancer patients in Ontario are enrolled in a clinical trial, emphasizing the need for optimization and critical analysis of the current search system for delivery of a suitable list of clinical trials for patients.MethodsThree individuals were hired to conduct searches for cancer patients across five search engines. They each conducted searches on ClinicalTrials.Gov. In addition, navigator 1 searched CanadianCancerTrials.com, navigator 2 searched ClinicalTrialsOntario, and navigator 3 searched 3CTN and Q-CROC. For every search, each tracked search key words, total trials shown, total eligible trials found, and the number of eligible trials found on alternate websites that were not present in the initial ClinicalTrials.Gov search. Also, qualitative analysis was done to identify shortcomings in the search engines. All searches were amalgamated by the lead navigator.ResultsOur findings reveal pitfalls in the clinical trial search system, such as inadequate or dysfunctional search filters, inconsistent results across the different clinical trial websites, low reproducibility of search results, outdated trial information, and lack of user-friendly navigation. Final results will be available at the time of the conference.ConclusionThe highlighted challenges of the current search system indicate an inefficient process that may be compromising clinical trial recruitment and thus potential patient outcomes
Assumption College Review: Vol. 1: no. 5 (1908: June)
No full text66 numbered pagesTo view online at the Internet Archive: https://archive.org/details/assumptioncollegereview19080
The Use of Pantoprazole Prior to Frozen Embryo Transfers - Clinical Trial
No full textIn-vitro fertilization (IVF) is a common infertility treatment involving the retrieval and fertilization of mature eggs1. Embryos from an IVF cycle or donor can be cryopreserved (frozen) to be used in a future pregnancy through a process known as frozen embryo transfer (FET). The frozen embryo is thawed just prior to transferring into the uterus to initiate pregnancy2. Preterm birth, occurring before 37 weeks of gestation, is the leading cause of perinatal and neonatal morbidity and mortality globally3. Other critical complications that can occur during pregnancy include ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage. However, IVF is associated with a higher incidence of preterm birth, ectopic pregnancy, and miscarriage compared to natural conception3.Tocolytics, or uterine relaxant drugs, are often prescribed to address preterm birth4, but their application is limited due to adverse effects and short delivery delays5. To address these limitations, new therapeutic agents have emerged. One common approach in these investigations is to repurpose existing drugs with demonstrated safety, such as proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs), which act as effective relaxants of the myometrium via the Rho/ROCK pathway6. Pantoprazole, an FDA Category B and Health Canada-approved PPI, is safe for pregnancy use to reduce gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)-related symptoms7. Meta-analysis findings highlighted that PPI use during pregnancy demonstrated no increased risk for preterm delivery, spontaneous abortions, or major congenital birth defects8. Unfortunately, there is a gap in existing research, as few other studies investigate the use of PPIs during pregnancy and in conjunction with FET and IVF. This study will examine live birth rates and the presence/absence of pregnancy complications following the administration of pantoprazole during the time of FET
If You Leave, You'll Have to Work for a Living: Economic Fantasies of the Dissident Undead
Get PDFInvestigating the role of the non-canonical cyclin-like protein Spy1 in regulating the Breast Cancer Stem Cell population in Triple Negative Breast Cancer
No full textBreast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, and treatment is often complicated by the tremendous heterogeneity of this disease. Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) occurs in 10-15% of diagnoses and typically has poorer outcomes than other subtypes of breast cancer. This is largely due to lack of targeted therapies and the existence of a greater proportion of cells known as breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). BCSCs are more resistant to conventional therapy and are capable of driving patient relapse. The BCSC population characterized by a unique set of molecular markers and is further divided into subpopulations which have differential effects on the functional capabilities of the tumour and are associated with differing levels of clinical prognosis. Cell cycle mediators may play a key role in driving expansion of this population of dangerous cells. Spy1, a cyclin-like protein, promotes cell cycle progression through the G1/S, and the G2/M phases of the cell cycle and has been shown to be elevated in TNBC patients. Using an in vitro model of TNBC, the relative abundance of these BCSC subpopulations can be assessed to determine if increased levels of Spy1 can result in their expansion leading to more aggressive, invasive and fatal cancers. This work seeks to determine the differential effect of Spy1 on different BCSC subpopulations in hopes of elucidating future potential therapeutic promise
The Impact of COVID-19 on the Mental Health of Healthcare Workers
No full textThis poster presentation summarizes publicly available data collected by the World Health Organization, the Government of Canada, the College of Nurses of Ontario, the Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario, and the University of Windsor's scholarly database to examine the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the mental health and well-being of healthcare workers. We reviewed online databases to find peer-reviewed articles and journals. We also reviewed government and organizational websites, as well as broadcasting platforms. We analyzed secondary data systematically vetting for credibility, reliability, and relevance to our topic. We found a positive correlation between the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the mental health of healthcare workers. Further research is required to understand the full impact on mental health of health care workers at all levels and regions, with particular interest for studies affecting individuals living in great adversity, as well as those living in lower-to-middle income countries
Project Scratch
No full textSustainable IndustryProject Scratch explores the manipulation of generative music using a program (patch) I created in Max, a visual programming language for music and multimedia. Generative music uses an algorithm to produce musical gestures that vary with each performance by using certain parameters defined by the programmer. My program uses what Christopher Ariza (2010) calls a Computer Aided Algorithmic Composition (CAAC) system, which permits the user to manipulate indirect musical representations: [which] may take the form of incomplete musical materials (a list of pitches or rhythms), but with an emphasis on manipulation of the set in real time. The patch I have developed can be incorporated in the creative process both as an element in improvisational settings and as a tool for generating ideas for fixed compositions. Project Scratch uses minimalist compositional techniques such as ostinato (a repeating sequence of pitches), augmentation/ diminution (tempo control), addition/ subtraction (of notes from the sequence) and phasing (identical offset musical gestures) to perform these manipulations. It also takes advantage of algorithmic procedures to filter information, for example, randomization of note sequences to create a sense of unpredictability. These methods are triggered manually by a live performer. In addition, I use Max in conjunction with Ableton Live, a digital audio workstation, to configure the nine-note fixed sequence and to provide options for sound design. The next steps for Project Scratch will be to incorporate drones (continuously sustained pitches), timbral variation (change of single note at a time), rhythmic displacement (emphasis on different notes in the sequence), polyphony (multiple voices) and more complex harmony. When considering all the factors of my patch, the possibilities for melodic content are vast, ensuring no two performances will be the same
A Review of Statistical Learning Methods with Applications
Get PDFStatistical learning refers to a set of tools for modelling and understanding complex datasets. It is a recently developed area in statistics and blends with parallel developments in computer science and, in particular, machine learning. This paper aims to outline some of the key statistical learning methods in the areas of prediction and classification of data. The goal is to discuss the theory and methodology of Ordinary Least Squares Regression, Ridge Regression, Lasso Regression, Logistic Regression, K-Nearest Neighbours method of classification, Linear and Quadratic Discriminant analysis, and Classification Trees. We then discuss the idea of Cross Validation, and demonstrate these methods by applying them to two real-life datasets
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Through an Advocacy and Resilience Lens
No full textIn my poster presentation, I will give an overview of what Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is, the discrepancy between PCOS prevalence and treatment insufficiency, the current negative narrative of PCOS and HEAL Lab's aim to change the landscape of PCOS research through a focus on advocacy and resilience. PCOS is the most common endocrine disorder in those assigned female at birth of reproductive age, yet the overwhelming conclusion regarding diagnosis, management, and treatment of the disorder is severe knowledge gaps in health professionals and delayed diagnosis. Through a discussion of the signs, symptoms, and comorbidities of PCOS, I will question the quality of healthcare support women are receiving. I will discuss the literature's focus on PCOS as a negative syndrome and will challenge misconceptions by describing how a change of focus in PCOS research could improve treatment, showcase self-advocacy, and highlight strength in individuals with PCOS. I will highlight HEAL Lab's contribution to the field and SDG #5 and our aim to change the overwhelmingly negative narrative of PCOS through experiences across the lifespan. Through interactive resources, I will encourage viewers to reflect and think critically about how they can make space for women's health experiences and share their own
Spatial and Temporal Variation in Drownings on the Great Lakes: 2010-2016
Get PDFSpatial and Temporal Variation in Drownings on the Great Lakes: 2010-2016 Brent Vlodarchyk 104023224 [email protected] University of Windsor November 29, 2016 Drownings on the Great Lakes are increasingly recognized as a public health issue in both Canada and the United States. Rip currents and other surf hazards are difficult to predict in both time and space, and few beach users understand how to identify and avoid the hazard. This study examines the spatial and temporal variation of drownings on the Great lakes between 2010 and 2016. A total of 270 drownings occurred on the Great Lakes between 2010 and 2016, with the majority of drownings on Lake Michigan in 2012 and 2016. In this study, I examine the specific weather patterns at the time of drowning events and in the hours leading up to each drowning, in addition to the demographics of the victim, with the purpose of identifying common factors among drowning events that can be used to improve rip and surf forecasts. Specifically, GIS is used to show the spatial and temporal variation in the drownings, as well to served as an important database for future research. Preliminary evidence suggests that water temperatures, wind speed and direction are important predictors of whether particular user groups (based on age, gender and location) are at risk of drowning. Results of this study will be used to determine the conditions that increase the risk of drowning in the Great Lakes, which will in turn serve as a basis for the development of an improved warning system and intervention strategies to reduce the number of drownings