Diagnostic Accuracy of a Convolutional Neural Network Assessment of Solitary Pulmonary Nodules Compared With PET With CT Imaging and Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced CT Imaging Using Unenhanced and Contrast-Enhanced CT Imaging.

Background: Solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) measuring 8 to 30 mm in diameter require further workup to determine the likelihood of malignancy.

Research Question: What is the diagnostic performance of a lung cancer prediction convolutional neural network (LCP-CNN) in SPNs using unenhanced and contrast-enhanced CT imaging compared with the current clinical workup?

Study Design And Methods: This was a post hoc analysis of the Single Pulmonary Nodule Investigation: Accuracy and Cost-Effectiveness of Dynamic Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography in the Characterisation of Solitary Pulmonary Nodules trial, a prospective multicenter study comparing the diagnostic accuracy of dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) CT imaging with PET imaging in SPNs. The LCP-CNN was designed and validated in an external cohort.

Left Atrial Appendage Closure During Cardiac Surgery for Atrial Fibrillation: A Meta-Analysis.

Background: Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) during cardiac surgery in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients has been investigated in multiple studies with variable safety and efficacy results.

Methods: A comprehensive review was performed of all studies comparing LAAC and placebo arm during cardiac surgery in AF patients. A random-effect model was used to calculate risk ratios, mean differences, and 95% confidence intervals.