Decision tree algorithm in locally advanced rectal cancer: an example of over-interpretation and misuse of a machine learning approach.

Purpose: To analyse the classification performances of a decision tree method applied to predictor variables in survival outcome in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). The aim was to offer a critical analysis to better apply tree-based approach in clinical practice and improve its interpretation.

Materials And Methods: Data concerning patients with histological proven LARC between 2007 and 2014 were reviewed.

Impact of clinical complete response on treatment outcomes in patients with locally advanced HPV-negative oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

Objective: To evaluate treatment outcomes after definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for human papilloma virus (HPV)-negative oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).

Materials And Methods: We analyzed data concerning HPV-negative OPSCC patients treated with curative intent. All patients received concomitant high-dose cisplatin-based chemotherapy.

Treating lupus patients with antimalarials: analysis of safety profile in a single-center cohort.

This longitudinal retrospective study aims at describing the safety profile and the reasons for discontinuation of antimalarials in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), focusing on ocular toxicity. We analyzed the clinical data of 845 SLE and DLE patients; 59% of them were taking antimalarials: 1.4% chloroquine (CQ), 88.

Perspectives on Some Controversies in Cardiovascular Disease Risk Assessment in the Pharmaceutical Development of Glucose-Lowering Medications.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued guidance on requirements to assess cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk with drugs being developed for approval for clinical use.