Application of Machine Learning Algorithms to Identify Optimal Candidates for Primary Tumor Resection in Patients with Metastatic Non-small Cell Neuroendocrine Tumors

This study utilized publicly available data from the SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results) database, which is a comprehensive source of information on cancer statistics in the United States. The authors did not need to obtain informed consent from individuals whose cases are registered in the SEER database because the data is anonymized and is meant for public use. Instead, the authors acquired Limited-Use Data Agreements with SEER, which are legal contracts that allow researchers to access and use specific datasets under certain conditions while ensuring that the privacy of the individuals in the database is maintained. This agreement outlines the terms of data use, ensuring that the researchers adhere to guidelines for the ethical handling of data while still enabling them to conduct their research.