Artificial intelligence is a hot topic in every field, and these algorithms are being widely used in scientific research. Particularly in my field of genetics and genomics, machine learning methods are invaluable for gleaning insights from large amounts of highly dimensional data. But there are many things to consider before applying AI and ML in … Read more
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, our lives have been significantly affected on every level. Different countries reacted in various ways and almost everybody was under lockdown at a certain point. With time, everyone has adapted to the new “normal”. Masks are on all the time, no handshakes or hugs, and if anyone gets … Read more
AHA20 is wrapping up today with the final sessions. It’s been another excellent meeting with tons of new data that was presented. One consistent theme remains, debates continue to drive the conversation in the management of patients with cardiovascular diseases. The ISCHEMIA trial did not disappoint again. It led to great discussions regarding the contemporary … Read more
For all early-career physicians out there, I am sure you were not only looking for the latest in science at AHA 2020 but also some guidance on career development, and the session “Developing your Career as an Academic Physician” was just perfect. Here I will review some of the fantastic talks from this session. It … Read more
“Covid19 is a hoax”, “vaccines poison your body”, “the earth is flat.” Various conspiracy theories and misinformation statements have existed throughout history. Though some might seem absurd and often put into the spotlight to ridicule them as they are improbable to be accurate, like the earth being flat, this comedian aspect shifts to a sinister … Read more
As we near the close of the American Heart Association’s 2020 Scientific Sessions, I’d like to reflect on the virtual conference experience. I must admit, despite the high quality research and programming schedule, I was skeptical going into this year’s virtual conference. It was my first (of many?), and I had reservations about the ability … Read more
Hypercholesterolemia remains a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Management of hypercholesterolemia has entailed the use of statins and non-statins, such as omega-3 fatty acid supplements. Common side effects related to fish oil supplements have included reports of gastrointestinal upset and difficulty in swallowing the fish capsules. Common side effects of statin therapy have included … Read more
In this AHA session, an international group of physician scientists discussed ways to mitigate immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) induced myocarditis and future therapies. The session, moderated by Dr. Sakima Smith MD, MPH, FAHA (from THE Ohio State), and Dr. Doug Tiley highlighted studies by Drs. Burkhard Ludewig, DVM, Dr. Han Zhu, MD, Dr. Alcaide, PhD, … Read more
Conversations of the utility and promise of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) permeate all fields of medicine, and cardiology is no exception. A quick search shows that 69 posters containing the keywords “machine learning” made it into AHA’s Scientific Sessions 2020. But is it for real? Will we really see a future in … Read more
This was an exciting session at AHA 2020 which focused on clinical trials of screening, monitoring, and early intervention in Atrial Fibrillation (AF). Screening of AF is a controversial topic and for individuals >65 years, current AHA guidelines give a Grade 2a recommendation for screening whereas USPSTF guidelines suggest that there is insufficient evidence for … Read more