Medicine (BSc Med)

The proposal shall be structured as follows:

1. Introduction
2. Hypothesis, methods (including sample sizes, calculation and methods for statistical analysis)
3. Expected results
4. Expected conclusions
5. References and supporting

Please ensure pages are single spaced using 12 point Arial font. The first four headings may not exceed three pages and the references and supporting materials may not exceed four pages. The total research proposal submission may not exceed seven pages.

The abstract is a synopsis or snapshot of the proposed project.The project abstract should be one page, a maximum of 250 words and should include:

• Student name
• Primary supervisor name
• Co‐supervisor name
• Title
• Background
• Methods (materials/statistical methods and sample size)
• Anticipated results

Review process

To ensure that trainees have an optimal experience in the BSc (Med) Program, all submitted research proposals are independently reviewed by two established investigators from the University of Manitoba, who then prepare a joint commentary to the Undergraduate Research Program’s Review Committee. The Review Committee meets as a whole to discuss all submitted research projects. Some projects will be accepted as submitted, others will require review and formal response to the questions raised by the reviewers, and some projects will be deemed unacceptable to proceed as BSc (Med) projects and will be rejected.

Research projects for the BSc (Med) Program are evaluated using the following criteria:

Scientific merit

The overall scientific merit of the proposed project:

• Feasibility as a student research project, over a period of two summers
• The educational value of the research experience
• The quality of the expected supervision and research environment

After the project evaluation process has been undertaken, the assessment will lead to one of three possible outcomes that are summarized as follows:

• Accepted without need for further information or clarification
• Neither accepted nor rejected as further information is required
• Rejected (Committee will provide options such as finding a new project, new supervisor or continuing outside of the BSc (Med) Program).

Once a project has been completely rejected the same project may not be revised and resubmitted on the same year as the review.

If the supervisor wishes, the project can be revised and resubmitted for reconsideration by the committee for the following intake year. Students may choose to either;

1. Proceed with the project independently with the investigator.
2. This project will not be considered part of the Undergraduate Research Program and the BSc (Med) degree cannot be granted for completion of the project, or
3. Choose an alternative project to submit by the provided deadline. This project can be created with either the same investigator, or an alternative eligible investigator (committee approved, if applicable).

The authorized withdrawal deadline for BSc (Med) Program and Summer Research Program is June 17, 2024. This applies to the student's first summer only.

If withdrawing from the BSc (Med) program after the first summer is completed, the student is not eligible for the One Summer Research Program.

For more information on the authorized withdrawal process, please contact the program coordinator.

If you are enrolled as a first-year medical student in the One Summer Research Program and want to transition your project to a BSc (Med) project a revised proposal and letter of support from the supervisor is required. The request to change from one summer to BSc (Med) must be emailed to advanceddegreesmedicine@umanitoba.ca by July 8, 2024.

Background

Department: Physiology and Pathophysiology
Supervisor: Dr. Sanjiv Dhingra
Co-Supervisor: Dr. Alok Pathak
Email: sanjiv.dhingra@umanitoba.ca
Phone: 1-204-235-3454

Eligibility:

• Bachelor of Science in Medicine (BSc Med) only

Project outline

Introduction

Cardiovascular disease stands as one of the leading global causes of mortality, yet permanent treatment options remain limited. Stem cell therapy offers promise for heart disease, particularly using bone marrow-derived allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from healthy donors for cardiac repair. However, a deeper understanding of the immune properties of these MSCs under ischemic or hypoxic conditions is essential before clinical application.

This project aims to delve into the immune properties of allogeneic MSCs under ischemic or hypoxic conditions. The goal is to develop strategies to maintain their immunoprivilege and prevent rejection following transplantation into the ischemic heart.

Methods

The project will investigate the mechanisms of hypoxia-induced increase in major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-II expression and loss of immunoprivilege of allogeneic MSCs. Strategies to prevent MHC-II downregulation under hypoxic/ischemic conditions will also be explored.

Anticipated results

The study outcomes will contribute to the development of strategies to preserve the immunoprivilege of allogeneic MSCs, prevent their rejection in the ischemic heart, and enhance the benefits of allogeneic MSC therapy for cardiac regeneration.

Student role

The student will be involved in conducting experiments to study the mechanisms of hypoxia-induced increase in MHC-II expression and loss of immunoprivilege of allogeneic MSCs. Additionally, the student will assist in exploring strategies to prevent MHC-II downregulation under hypoxic/ischemic conditions.

Background

Department or Section: Thoracic Surgery
Supervisor and Co-Supervisor’s names: Dr. Biniam Kidane, Dr. Richard Liu
Email address: bkidane@hsc.mb.ca
Phone number: 204-787-3703

Eligibility:

• Medical Student Research Program (MSRP) only

Project outline

Introduction

Esophageal cancer significantly impacts health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The FACT-E questionnaire is a validated HRQOL measure for esophageal cancer patients. Previous research demonstrated that higher pretreatment FACT-E scores were independently associated with better overall survival in resectable esophageal cancer patients in Ontario.

Methods

All esophageal cancer patients visiting our clinic complete the FACT-E questionnaire before treatment. Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval is secured. Clinical and cancer history data are prospectively recorded. Treatment and outcome data are recorded in the patient's chart or electronic records. The BSc Med Student will extract and organize this data into an analytic database. Regression analysis will assess survival at various time points (6 months, 1, 2, and 5 years). Discriminant analysis will compare the predictive ability of FACT-E, performance status, and clinician gestalt assessment.

Anticipated results

Determining whether pretreatment FACT-E scores correlate with survival in patients with gastroesophageal junction or thoracic esophagus cancer. Evaluating whether FACT-E outperforms existing clinical parameters as a predictor of survival.

Student role

Extract FACT-E scores and clinical data from patient records and input into an analytic database. Learn data cleaning and basic/advanced analysis techniques. Opportunity to learn R statistical software. Expected outcome includes 4 abstracts and 1-2 papers, with the student as the first author on at least one paper. The student will be a co-author on all papers and involved in other research team activities.

Background

Department or Section: Family Medicine
Supervisor and Co-Supervisor’s names: Dr. Anna Chudyk, Dr. Jose Francois
Email address: anna.chudyk@umanitoba.ca

Eligibility:

• Medical Student Research Program (MSRP) only

Project outline

Introduction

Health researchers aim to increase knowledge of health, disease, and health services, applying that knowledge to improve people's health. Patients and their caregivers possess direct experiences with health and illness, making them valuable allies in health research. Despite investments in initiatives like CIHR’s Strategy for Patient-Oriented Research (SPOR), patient contributions to research have been underutilized, limited mostly to the role of research subjects. This study explores patients' perceived barriers and facilitators to engaging as research partners.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews with 13 patient partners engaged in SPOR-funded projects were conducted. Interviews explored reasons for becoming a patient partner, perceptions of the term "patient partner," the purpose and value of patient partners, their roles and responsibilities in research, and barriers and facilitators to engagement. This project focuses on analyzing and summarizing findings related to barriers and facilitators.

Anticipated results

Findings will support academic researchers in creating supportive environments for patient partners in research. It will also raise awareness among patient partners about potential supports when engaging in research.

Student role

The student will contribute to manuscript authorship by conducting a brief literature review with a librarian, analyzing and summarizing interview data, and assisting in manuscript writing. Training and supervision will be provided.

Background

Department: Internal Medicine
Supervisor: Dr. Harminder Singh
Co-Supervisor: Dr. Christina Kim
Email: harminder.singh@umanitoba.ca
Phone: 204-789-3639

Eligibility:

• Bachelor of Science in Medicine (BSc Med)
• Medical Student Research Program (MSRP)

Project outline

Introduction

Lynch Syndrome (LS) is the main cause of hereditary colorectal cancer (CRC). Despite regular colonoscopies, CRC incidence remains high among LS patients. More research is necessary to better understand interval CRCs and colorectal polyps, which are precursor lesions for CRC, particularly among LS patients. While colonoscopies are effective in lowering CRC incidence and mortality in LS patients, CRCs continue to occur. This underscores the importance of gaining a deeper understanding of interval CRCs and colorectal polyps. Manitoba's LS clinic, with its sizable cohort, offers an excellent opportunity to investigate these aspects.

Methods

We will identify patients with pathogenic/likely pathogenic LS gene variants in Manitoba (1999-2023) from paper and electronic charts. Colorectal polyps will be identified from pathology records, while CRC cases will be obtained from the Manitoba Cancer Registry and pathology databases. Clinical features, LS gene variants, treatment modalities, and survival data will be extracted through chart review. Polyp characteristics will be gathered from pathology records.

Anticipated results

We expect to find a variety of polypoid lesions, necessitating detailed characterization. Describing advanced polyps will indicate how often invasive CRCs may have been prevented. Additionally, we will describe CRCs that were not prevented by surveillance. This study will later expand to assess interval CRCs among non-LS individuals, including those with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Student role

The student will be responsible for data collection and entry. Additionally, they will participate in data analysis, presentation, and manuscript preparation.

Background

Department or Section: Family Medicine
Supervisor and Co-Supervisor’s names: Dr. Jose Francois, Dr. Amanda Condon
Email address: jose.francois@umanitoba.ca
Phone number: 204-981-4109

Eligibility:

• Medical Student Research Program (MSRP) only

Project outline

Introduction

Meaning in work is crucial for physician resilience against burnout. While existing literature has explored the impact of meaningful patient-physician relationships on burnout, it predominantly reflects patient perspectives. This study aims to explore how family medicine residency education addresses the benefits of patient-physician relationships to physicians. Specifically, it investigates how residents are taught about building strong, trusting relationships with patients, and how their understanding evolves in the first five years of practice.

Methods

Qualitative methods, including individual interviews and focus group discussions, will be employed to gather perceptions from various stakeholders (postgraduate learners, family physicians, residency directors, and patients) regarding teaching and modeling approaches for meaningful patient-physician relationships. Analysis methods include conventional content analysis, comparative analysis, and directed analysis informed by stakeholder theory.

Anticipated results

Identified themes will inform residency programs about potential approaches or interventions to assist learners in improving their ability to develop meaningful patient-physician relationships.

Student role

The student will conduct a comprehensive literature review on the topic, assist in developing guides for individual interviews, participate in transcribing comments and theme analysis, and contribute to writing a medical education journal article.

Background

Department: Psychiatry
Supervisor: Dr. Erin Knight
Co-Supervisor: Dr. Gayle Halas
Email: eknight@hsc.mb.ca
Phone: 204-918-7012

Eligibility:

• Bachelor of Science in Medicine (BSc Med) only

Project outline

Introduction

Rapid Access to Addiction Medicine (RAAM) clinics were established in Manitoba in 2018 to provide accessible support for individuals seeking assistance with substance use. Despite considerable expansion, RAAM clinics continue to encounter capacity challenges, resulting in individuals being turned away. This study aims to investigate the outcomes for individuals redirected from RAAM clinics due to capacity constraints, focusing on understanding their experiences post-redirection.

Methods

This retrospective chart review will utilize the RAAM electronic medical record to identify patients redirected due to clinic capacity constraints. The review will assess whether redirected patients were eventually seen at RAAM, the time lapse between redirection and being seen, the frequency of redirections before being seen, and whether patients were seen during drop-in or booked appointments. Additionally, any documented emergency department, urgent care, or crisis services contacts after redirection and before being seen at RAAM will be analyzed.

Anticipated results

It is hypothesized that most redirected patients will eventually be seen at RAAM, but some may experience significant delays between presentations, potentially leading to acute care presentations. Additionally, it is anticipated that many patients will be redirected multiple times before being seen, with those redirected multiple times more likely to be seen during booked appointments.

Student role

The student will actively participate throughout the project, including drafting the ethics submission. They will conduct the chart review, extract data, and perform initial descriptive analysis under the supervision of the project's supervisors. The student will also have the opportunity to present the study to the RAAM Hub and contribute to manuscript submission for peer-reviewed publication.

Background

Department or Section: Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
Supervisor and Co-Supervisor’s names: Ma Luo
Email address: Ma.Luo@umanitoba.ca; Ma.Luo@phac-aspc.gc.ca
Phone number: 204-789-5072 

Eligibility:

• Bachelor of Science in Medicine (BSc Med) only

Project outline

Introduction

Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLAs) play a crucial role in adaptive immunity against infectious pathogens. The diversity of HLA alleles, shaped by selection pressures from pathogens, serves as an ecological defense mechanism against epidemics. Associations between HLA alleles and differential HIV-1 infection outcomes likely stem from variations in antigen presentation and induced immune responses. Epitope characteristics of HLA alleles linked to diverse HIV-1 infection outcomes could offer insights into effective vaccine development. DRB1 alleles associated with varying HIV-1 infection outcomes have been identified in the Pumwani sex worker cohort. DRB115:03 is linked to rapid seroconversion, while DRB101:01 and DRB1*11:02 are associated with slower seroconversion. HIV-1 clade A and D Gag CD4+ T cell epitopes of these alleles have been determined using the REVEAL™ Rapid Epitope Discovery System in combination with ELISPOT analysis.

Methods

Immunogenetic and statistical analyses will be conducted to compare the differences in HIV-1 Gag epitope recognition among these HLA class II alleles.

Anticipated results

Identification of differences in HIV-1 Gag epitopes among HLA class II alleles and proposal and discussion of implications for HIV vaccine development.

Student role

The student will familiarize themselves with the study background, conduct data analysis, and draft a manuscript to report the results.

Background

Department: Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Department
Supervisor: Dr. Ma Luo
Co-Supervisor: Dr. Binhua Liang
Email: Ma.Luo@umanitoba.ca
Phone: 204-789-5072

Eligibility:

• Medical Student Research Program (MSRP) only

Project outline

Introduction

Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLAs) play a crucial role in adaptive immunity against infectious pathogens. Their diversity, shaped by pathogen selection, serves as a population ecologic defense against epidemics. The association of HLA alleles with varied outcomes of HIV-1 infection suggests differences in antigen presentation and immune response, offering insights into vaccine development.

Methods

Utilizing the iTopia Epitope Discovery system and FACS analysis, we will systematically examine Env epitopes presented by A01:01 and B07:02 HLA alleles, correlated with divergent HIV infection outcomes.

Anticipated results

Identification of differential HIV-1 ENV epitopes between the two HLA class I alleles and their implications for HIV vaccine development will be discussed.

Student role

The student will grasp the study's background, perform data analysis, and contribute to manuscript drafting for result dissemination.

Background

Department: Surgery
Supervisor: Dr. Ashley Vergis
Co-Supervisor: Dr. Krista Hardy
Email: wenjing.he@umanitoba.ca
Phone: 204-258-1479

Eligibility:

• Bachelor of Science in Medicine (BSc Med)
• Medical Student Research Program (MSRP)

Project outline

Introduction

Flexible endoscopy has revolutionized the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. However, the acquisition of endoscopic skills is critical for physicians-in-training. This study seeks to utilize eye-tracking and facial expression analysis to discern disparities in performance between novice and expert endoscopists during simulated procedures.

Methods

Twenty novice and twenty expert endoscopists will perform a simulated lower GI procedure using an EndoVR endoscopy simulator. All participants will receive standardized pre-trial instructions. During the procedure, eye movements and facial expressions will be tracked using an eye-tracking system (SmartEye Aurora, 120 Hz) and HD webcam, respectively. Data will be analyzed using iMotions software, and mental workload will be evaluated post-trial using the NASA Task Load Index (TLX).

Anticipated results

We anticipate observing differences in gaze behavior between novice and expert groups. Analysis will focus on gaze markers such as "fixation" and "saccade" during simulated procedures. Additionally, facial expression investigation will provide insight into emotional responses towards external stimuli.

Student role

The student will assist in data collection during the simulated procedures, including monitoring eye movements and facial expressions.

Background

Department: Internal Medicine
Supervisor: Dr. Asher Mendelson
Co-Supervisor: Dr. Mullelin Thorleifson
Email: asher.mendelson@umanitoba.ca
Phone: 204-787-8059

Eligibility:

• Bachelor of Science in Medicine (BSc Med)
• Medical Student Research Program (MSRP)

Project outline

Introduction

Peri-operative hemodynamic monitoring is crucial in cardiac surgery to ensure organ perfusion and detect clinical deterioration. However, conventional monitoring methods focus on systemic parameters and global biomarkers, which do not directly assess the microcirculation. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) offers a non-invasive way to monitor the microcirculation, presenting a potential tool for managing peri-operative cardiac care.

Methods

This observational pilot study will monitor cardiac surgery patients at St. Boniface Hospital using NIRS on the forearm and brain during surgery and post-operatively in the ICU. Physiological data, including blood pressure, will be extracted from ICU monitors. Treatments and lab values will be recorded. No additional tests or treatments beyond standard care will be administered, except for the application of two wireless NIRS sensors.

Anticipated results

This study aims to understand microvascular perfusion changes during cardiac surgery and the peri-operative period. By championing the use of advanced equipment in the CVICU, it positions Winnipeg as a leading center for hemodynamic and translational research in cardiac surgery. The findings may pave the way for using tissue perfusion to guide resuscitation and treatment in future clinical trials.

Student role

The student will be involved in data collection both in the operating room and ICU.

Background

Department: Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
Supervisor: Dr. Ma Luo
Co-Supervisor: Dr. Binhua Liang
Email: Ma.Luo@umanitoba.ca
Phone: 1-204-789-5072

Eligibility:

• Bachelor of Science in Medicine (BSc Med) only (only can select one with Dr. Liang)

Project outline

Introduction

Human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) undergoes rapid mutation to evade the host immune response, resulting in positively selected mutations (PSMs) induced by Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) class I-restricted CD8+ T cell responses. Understanding these mutations and their impact on disease progression is crucial for vaccine development. This study aims to identify and characterize PSMs in Nef of HIV-1 subtype A from the Pumwani Sex Worker cohort.

Methods

• Analyze Nef genome sequence data from 508 antiretroviral drug-naïve women infected with subtype A HIV-1.
• Use computational biology approaches to identify PSMs.
• Correlate PSMs with disease outcome using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and with HLA class I alleles using Fisher’s exact test.

Anticipated results

1. Identification of PSMs in Nef of subtype A HIV-1.
2. Identification of HIV-1 Nef CD8+ T cell epitopes containing PSMs that differentially influence disease progression, correlated with host HLA class I alleles and CD4 T cell counts.

Student role

• Analyze Nef genome sequence data.
• Identify PSMs using computational biology approaches.
• Correlate PSMs with disease outcome and HLA class I alleles.

Background

Department: Cardiac Surgery
Supervisor: Dr. Andrew Fagan
Co-Supervisor: Dr. Nitin Ghorpade
Email: afagan@sbgh.mb.ca
Phone: 204-258-1213

Eligibility:

• Bachelor of Science in Medicine (BSc Med)
• Medical Student Research Program (MSRP)

Project Outline

Introduction

Acute mechanical circulatory support (MCS) provides invasive rescue therapies for critically ill patients when medical interventions fail. However, the functional outcomes in these patients, particularly concerning social determinants of health, are poorly understood.Acute mechanical circulatory support (MCS) offers life-saving interventions for critically ill patients. However, little is known about the functional outcomes of patients undergoing MCS, especially regarding socioeconomic status (SES) and race.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study will include 407 MCS patients in Manitoba from 2007 to the present. Data on patient demographics, SES, race, institutionalization rates, rehospitalization rates, and survival will be collected from various databases. Additionally, a survivorship clinic will conduct telephone interviews with patients using validated questionnaires to assess post-MCS function and quality of life. Statistical analysis will include logistic regression to compare mortality risk adjusted for SES and race, as well as Chi-Square and Kruskal-Wallis tests to compare quality of life data. Cumulative incidence curves and Kaplan-Meier analysis will assess institutionalization, rehospitalization, and survival.

Anticipated Results

We expect to find differences in survival and Health-Related Quality of Life based on SES and race. Patients of lower SES or visible minorities may have different outcomes compared to those of higher SES or non-visible minorities.

Student Role

The student will input remaining patient data into the MCS database, conduct interviews with patients to gather functional outcome data, extract demographic and outcome data, generate tables for statistical analysis, and assist in manuscript preparation for peer-reviewed journals.

Background

Department or Section: Biochemistry and Medical Genetics
Supervisor and Co-Supervisor’s names: Dr. Binhua Liang, Dr. Ma Luo
Email address: binhua.liang@umanitoba.ca
Phone number: 204-789-2039

Eligibility:

• Bachelor of Science in Medicine (BSc Med) only (only can select one with Dr. Liang)

Project outline

Introduction

A subset of women in the Pumwani Sex Workers Cohort in Nairobi, Kenya, demonstrate a HIV exposed seronegative (HESN) phenotype. The minor allele of the SNP rs1552896 within the FREM1 gene is significantly enriched in the HESN group. This study aims to further elucidate the genetic polymorphisms of the FREM1 gene and its association with the HESN phenotype in the ML cohort.

Methods

1. Analyzing FREM1 genome sequence data of 70 women from the Pumwani sex worker cohort.
2. Identifying SNPs and microsatellites within the FREM1 gene.
3. Correlating identified SNPs and microsatellites with the HESN phenotype observed in the cohort.

Anticipated results

Further evaluation of genetic polymorphisms within the FREM1 gene and their linkage with the SNP rs1552896 associated with the HESN phenotype in the Pumwani Cohort.

Student’s role

1. Analyze FREM1 genome sequence data from 70 women in the Pumwani sex worker cohort.
2. Identify SNPs and microsatellites within the FREM1 gene.
3. Correlate identified genetic variations with the observed HESN phenotype.

Background

Department: Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
Supervisor: Dr. Denice Bay
Email: denice.bay@umanitoba.ca
Phone: 204-894-9160

Eligibility:

• Bachelor of Science in Medicine (BSc Med) only.

Project outline

Introduction

Periodontal disease (PD) is a prevalent inflammatory gum condition affecting 7 out of 10 Canadians, typically over the age of 45. It is primarily caused by bacteria damaging gums and bones, leading to tooth loss, serious blood infections, and increased heart disease. Rapid testing is crucial due to limited access to affordable dental care and the challenge of early PD detection.

This project aims to develop a rapid point-of-care (POC) paper strip device for detecting periodontal disease-causing bacterial by-products in human saliva. Collaborating with PerioDiagnostics Inc., the project will test different formulations of thiol and pH chemicals to design the POC strips.

Methods

This two-year project will design and evaluate various thiol and pH dye compounds for their ability to detect bacterial by-products in periodontal disease saliva using paper POC strips. The project has two aims: 1) designing optimal POC strip tests in Year 1 for clinical validation in Winnipeg dental clinics, and 2) testing the assembled POC strips with saliva samples from approximately 300 adults (>45 years) with and without PD to ensure accuracy. Microbial 16S rDNA from participant saliva will be sequenced to verify PD-causing bacterial presence and positive POC strip test results.

Anticipated results

Following the validation of POC strips in Aim 2, PerioDiagnostics Inc. will manufacture, sell, and distribute the successful final POC strips as rapid detection kits. This will enhance accessible PD diagnostic testing services for local and remote communities in Canada.

Student role

The student will assist with Aim 2 by administering POCs, conducting participant questionnaires/surveys, collecting salivary samples, and performing 16S rDNA extraction/analyses.

Background

Department: Surgery - Urology
Supervisor: Dr. Gregory Hosier
Co-Supervisor: Dr. Premal Patel
Email: ghosier@hsc.mb.ca
Phone: 204-787-8950

Eligibility:

• Bachelor of Science in Medicine (BSc Med)
• Medical Student Research Program (MSRP)

Project outline

Introduction

Kidney stones affect 10% of the population, with increasing prevalence. Ureteroscopy is a common surgical method for treatment. However, post-surgery, patients often experience morbidity due to ureteral stents, inserted to prevent urinary obstruction. These stents can cause hematuria, pain, and lower urinary tract symptoms. Despite this, there is a lack of randomized controlled trials assessing their utility. This study aims to compare outcomes following ureteroscopic management of renal stones in patients with and without stents.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial will be conducted at Health Sciences Centre. Participants will undergo ureteroscopic management for renal calculi with or without a stent. Inclusion criteria: men or women >18 years with renal stones <1.5 cm. Exclusion criteria: solitary kidney, transplant kidney, infection, stone >1.5 cm, bilateral procedure, and use of access sheath. Primary outcome: unplanned emergency department visits/provider visits/hospital admission. Secondary outcomes: Clavien-Dindo complications, stone-free rate, patient-reported outcomes using the Wisconsin Quality of Life Questionnaire, and percentage returning to work within 1 week post-surgery. Sample size: 60 patients (30 with stent, 30 without).

Anticipated results

We anticipate that patients without stents will experience fewer emergency visits/provider visits/hospital admissions, improved quality of life, and faster return to work, with similar complication and stone-free rates compared to those with stents post-ureteroscopy.

Student role

The student will participate in all project phases, including ethics submission, patient consent, recording study variables, data analysis and interpretation, manuscript preparation, and presenting results at national conferences. They will also attend surgical procedures and administer the Wisconsin Quality of Life Questionnaire approximately 1 week post-surgery.

Background

Department or Section: Medical Oncology
Supervisor and Co-Supervisor’s names: Dr. Rebekah Rittberg, Dr. Shantanu Banerji
Email address: rrittberg@manitoba-physicians.ca

Eligibility:

• Bachelor of Science in Medicine (BSc Med) only

Project outline

Introduction

Over half of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) diagnoses are incurable at detection. Stage IV NSCLC patients require tissue biomarker work-up to select optimal first-line systemic therapy. The programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) biomarker, which determines response to immune checkpoint inhibitors, has significantly improved survival. However, PD-L1 testing methods vary, with up to 40% of NSCLC diagnoses using cytology samples. This study aims to compare patient outcomes based on PD-L1 expression identified from cytology or histology specimens.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study examines stage IV NSCLC patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors as first-line treatment in Manitoba, Canada, from 2018 to present. Patients will be identified through the Manitoba Provincial Oncology Drug Program database. Demographics, biomarkers, treatment, and outcomes will be collected from the Manitoba Cancer Registry, CancerCare Manitoba pharmacy records, and ARIA electronic chart review. The primary outcome is overall survival stratified by tissue diagnosis type (histology vs. cytology), PD-L1 expression (<1%, 1-49%, ≥50%), and histology (squamous vs. non-squamous).

Anticipated results

Approximately 100 new NSCLC cases annually receive first-line immunotherapy. We anticipate no significant difference in survival based on PD-L1 testing from histology compared to cytology. This study will increase confidence in selecting first-line systemic therapy using PD-L1 results from cytology.

Student role

The student will develop a database through chart review and gain research and clinical exposure at CancerCare Manitoba. By the end of the first summer, the student will complete the database and generate descriptive statistics of cohort demographics. By the end of the second summer, the student will finish survival analysis and interpret results. Ideal for students interested in Internal Medicine or Pathology, this project aims for successful publication in a peer-reviewed scientific journal, with the dataset available for future research and publications.

Background

Department: Medical Oncology
Supervisor: Dr. Shantanu Banerji
Co-Supervisor: Dr. Rebekah Rittberg
Email: sbanerji@cancercare.mb.ca

Project outline

Introduction

Over half of individuals diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have incurable disease at diagnosis. Stage IV NSCLC patients require tissue biomarker analysis for optimal first-line systemic therapy selection. Biomarker-guided therapy, particularly involving programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1), has significantly improved survival. However, the real-world usage of PD-L1 testing via cytology specimens, despite its relevance in less invasive diagnostic procedures, lacks comprehensive clinical data on patient treatment outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study will analyze stage IV NSCLC patients who received first-line immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy in Manitoba, Canada, from 2018 to the present. Patients will be identified through the Manitoba Provincial Oncology Drug Program database. Data on patient demographics, cancer biomarkers, treatments, and outcomes will be collected from various sources. The primary outcome will be overall survival stratified by tissue diagnosis type (histology vs. cytology) and PD-L1 expression levels.

Anticipated results

Approximately 100 new NSCLC cases annually treated with immunotherapy are expected. The study anticipates no significant difference in survival based on PD-L1 testing from histology compared to cytology, supporting increased confidence in selecting first-line systemic therapy based on cytology-derived PD-L1 results.

Student role

The student will gain exposure to database development through chart review, research, and clinical exposure at CancerCare Manitoba. By the end of the first summer, the student will complete database development and demographic analysis. By the end of the second summer, they will conduct survival analysis and interpret results. This project suits students interested in Internal Medicine or Pathology and is expected to result in a publication in a peer-reviewed scientific journal, with potential future use of the dataset for other research questions.

Background

Department: Thoracic Surgery
Supervisor: Dr. Biniam Kidane
Co-Supervisor: Dr. Chris Pascoe
Email: bkidane@hsc.mb.ca
Phone: 204-787-3703

Eligibility:

• Bachelor of Science in Medicine (BSc Med)
• Medical Student Research Program (MSRP)

Project outline

Introduction

During surgeries under general anesthesia, artificial ventilation is necessary, which has the potential to harm the lungs and cause respiratory complications. This risk is particularly pronounced during lung surgeries because of one-lung ventilation (OLV), where one lung is collapsed while the other is ventilated.

The goal of this ongoing study is to explore methods to reduce the inflammatory response during lung surgery and anesthesia, thus minimizing the occurrence of complications.

Methods

This prospective clinical cohort study involves patients undergoing lung surgery. Over five hundred patients have been recruited, with enrollment ongoing. Lung surgery itself can cause lung injury, and samples of lung tissue and blood are being collected to identify the biochemical processes contributing to lung injury and associated respiratory complications. Oxygenation and complication occurrence are recorded prospectively. Multiplex ELISA and mass spectrometric technologies are used to analyze changes in protein and lipid inflammatory markers in broncho-alveolar lavage (BAL) and plasma samples. The effectiveness of anti-inflammatory medications in reducing inflammation and complications is also being assessed. The student will undertake these analyses.

Anticipated results

We anticipate identifying changes in inflammatory markers and assessing the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory medications in reducing inflammation and complications. The findings will contribute to understanding how to mitigate complications during lung surgery and anesthesia.

Student role

The student will engage in clinical research, wet lab experience, and data analysis. Responsibilities include participating in data collection during lung operations, specimen acquisition (BAL, blood), data cataloging and cleaning, basic data analysis, and potentially more advanced analysis using R statistical software. The student will also learn histopathological assessment for acute lung injury and preparation for multiplex ELISA. The project is expected to yield 1-2 abstracts and papers, with the student likely being the first author on at least one paper and a co-author on all papers. Additionally, the student will be involved in the overall research team's activities, gaining exposure to various ongoing studies.

Background

Department: Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences
Supervisor: Dr. Christy Pylypjuk
Co-Supervisor: Dr. Florencia Ricci
Email: cpylypjuk@hsc.mb.ca
Phone: 204-787-4821

Eligibility:

• Bachelor of Science in Medicine (BSc Med) only

Project outline

Introduction

Preterm prelabour rupture of membranes (PPROM) complicates a significant portion of preterm births and is associated with adverse neonatal outcomes. However, the impact of residual amniotic fluid volume on perinatal outcomes in this population remains unclear. This study aims to determine the relationship between initial amniotic fluid volume after PPROM and perinatal outcomes.

Methods

• Create a 5-year retrospective cohort of PPROM pregnancies in Manitoba using an electronic fetal ultrasound database.
• Compare groups with normal and abnormal amniotic fluid volumes following PPROM to assess their influence on perinatal outcomes.
• Analyze data from the Discharge Abstract Database at HSC, focusing on gestational age at delivery, mode of delivery, NICU admission length, postnatal complications, and perinatal death.

Anticipated results

Low amniotic fluid volume is hypothesized to be associated with increased perinatal complications, including earlier delivery, more Cesarean section births, longer NICU stays, and heightened neonatal medical complications. These findings will improve counseling for families affected by PPROM and guide obstetrical and neonatal care.

Student role

• Review stored ultrasound images and reports to determine amniotic fluid volume after PPROM.
• Link ultrasound data with the electronic dataset.
• Manage data, perform coding, and assist in interpreting and disseminating results.