A total of 28 of these variables were then provided to a machine-learning model that’s based on RUSBoost, an ensemble classification algorithm that utilizes decision trees. “RUSBoost is particularly well-suited for imbalanced datasets which are typically observed in the context of [major adverse cardiac event] prediction,” Tesche said. The researchers then compared the performance of the algorithm for predicting major adverse cardiac events with that of conventional regression analysis, as well as individual variables such as conventional CCTA risk scores, plaque measures, and clinical information.
Furthermore, the algorithm also outperformed conventional regression analysis, which produced an area under the curve of 0.92. That difference was also statistically significant (p = 0.024). Tesche acknowledged a number of limitations of the study, including the lack of an external validation cohort. In addition, its retrospective design also could induce a selection bias, he said. As patient follow-up was performed using electronic medical record searches and patient phone calls, major adverse cardiac events may also be underreported.
Radiology Reporter, Copyright © 2020 AuntMinnie.com
Contrast-enhanced mammo can play pivotal diagnostic role By Theresa Pablos, AuntMinnie staff writer
Contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM) can play a pivotal role in diagnosing some types of breast cancer, according to research presented at the RSNA 2020 virtual meeting. A new study found CESM yielded 93% accuracy for identifying high-grade ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). In the study of 510 cases, high-grade DCIS and invasive cancers almost exclusively showed enhancement on contrast-enhanced mammography. The findings reflect the pivotal role that CESM can play in further assessing suspicious microcalcifications on standard mammography, noted presenter Dr. Mohammed Mohamed Gomaa. “The presence of associated underlying nonmass enhancement is an indicator of highgrade DCIS or invasiveness,” said Gomaa, head of the radiology department at Baheya Charity Women’s Cancer Hospital in Giza, Egypt, in an on-demand presentation. All women in the study were between the ages of 27 and 77 and underwent standard mammography, which revealed suspicious microcalcifications. Gabaa and colleagues then used contrast-enhanced mammography to further visualize the suspicious microcalcifications.
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