Research
Clinical trials and research initiatives
CRI conducts innovative clinical trials focused on inclusive research, emerging med-tech validation, and translational cardiovascular research. Our work bridges academia, innovation, and underrepresented patient populations.
Published Research
Peer-reviewed publications authored by CRI investigators.
Peer-Reviewed Journal Articles
Brief Review and Primer of Key Terminology for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Hypertension
Dunn, P., Ali, A., Patel, A. P., & Banerjee, S. Hypertension, 82, 00–00
This comprehensive review provides essential terminology and concepts for understanding AI and machine learning applications in hypertension management.
Key AI Technologies
- Supervised and Unsupervised Machine Learning: The two critical underlying technologies in AI, using neural networks and deep learning modeled after the human brain
- Neural Networks and Deep Learning: Learning from structured or unstructured data sets to make decisions and continuously improve models
- Natural Language Processing (NLP): Used for supervised learning to understand, interpret, and generate human language in chatbots and generative and conversational AI
- Large Language Models: Such as ChatGPT and others, enabled by increased computing power and access to large data sets
- Computer Vision: New imaging models using computer vision technology
Clinical Applications
- Hypertension management using blood pressure and biometric data from connected devices and generative AI
- Communication with patients and healthcare professionals through AI-powered systems
- Remote Patient Monitoring: AI can improve hypertension diagnosis and treatment through remote monitoring technologies
- Digital Therapeutics: Technology-enabled treatment approaches for hypertension management
DOI: 10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.123.22347
Mental Health Applications of Generative AI and Large Language Modeling in the United States
Banerjee, S., Dunn, P., Conard, S., & Ali, A. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Background
Artificial intelligence (AI) has flourished in recent years. More specifically, generative AI has had broad applications in many disciplines. While mental illness is on the rise, AI has proven valuable in aiding the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders. However, there is little to no research about precisely how much interest there is in AI technology.
Methods
The study performed a Google Trends search for 'AI and mental health' and compared relative search volume (RSV) indices of 'AI', 'AI and Depression', and 'AI and anxiety'. This time series study employed Box-Jenkins time series modeling to forecast long-term interest through the end of 2024.
Results
Within the United States, AI interest steadily increased throughout 2023, with some anomalies due to media reporting. Through predictive models, the study found that this trend is predicted to increase 114% through the end of the year 2024, with public interest in AI applications being on the rise.
Conclusions
According to the study, awareness of AI has drastically increased throughout 2023, especially in mental health. This demonstrates increasing public awareness of mental health and AI, making advocacy and education about AI technology of paramount importance.
Circulation Publications
Effect of Alcohol-Mediated Renal Denervation on Blood Pressure in the Presence of Antihypertensive Medications: Primary Results From the TARGET BP I Randomized Clinical Trial
CRI role: Trial ContributorKandzari, D. E., Weber, M. A., Pathak, A., Zidar, J. P., Saxena, M., David, S. W., Schmieder, R. E., Mahfoud, F., et al. Circulation, 149(24)
CRI served as a study site for this prospective, international, sham-controlled, randomized, patient- and assessor-blinded trial investigating the safety and efficacy of alcohol-mediated renal denervation. The primary results were published in Circulation; CRI did not author the manuscript.
DOI: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.124.069291
Optical Absorption Figure of Merit for Photoplethysmography-Based Cuffless Monitoring of Blood Pressure Varies Across a Diversity of Skin Tones in the Fitzpatrick Scale
Trawick, A., Aumer, M., LeBoeuf, S., Ali, A., Farooqui, S., Delgado, Y., & Reyes-Rivera, J. Circulation, 150(Suppl_1), Abstract 4143416
This abstract, co-authored by CRI team members Asif Ali MD, Sami Farooqui, and Yulissa Delgado, was presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions and published in Circulation. The research addresses an important consideration in cuffless blood pressure monitoring technology: how optical absorption characteristics vary across different skin tones, which is critical for ensuring equitable and accurate blood pressure measurement across diverse populations.
Session: Pixels to Predictions: Innovations in Cardiovascular Imaging
Location: S104A, McCormick Place Convention Center
Presenters:
- • Asif Ali MD (UT Health Science Center, Cena Research Institute)
- • Sami Farooqui (Cena Research Institute)
- • Yulissa Delgado (Cena Research Institute)
DOI: 10.1161/circ.150.suppl_1.4143416
Evaluating the Clinical Reasoning of GPT-4, Grok, and Gemini in Different Fields of Cardiology
Reyes-Rivera, J., Castro Molina, A., Romero-Lorenzo, M., Ali, S., Gibson, C., Saucedo, J., Calandrelli, M., & Ali, A. Circulation, 150(Suppl_1), Abstract 4147550
This research, co-authored by CRI team members Asif Ali MD and Dr. Sajid Ali, evaluates the clinical reasoning capabilities of large language models (GPT-4, Grok, and Gemini) across different fields of cardiology.
Session: LLMs Friend or Foe?
Location: Zone 3, Science & Technology Hall
Presenters:
- • Asif Ali MD
- • Jonathan Rivera (Cena Research Institute)
- • Marco Lorenzo (Cena Research Institute)
DOI: 10.1161/circ.150.suppl_1.4147550
Enhanced External Counterpulsation as a Novel Treatment for Heart Transplant Candidates with Ischemic Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction
Ali, A., Farooqui, S., & Khalid, E. Circulation, 150(Suppl_1), Abstract 4144084
This research, co-authored by CRI team members Asif Ali MD, Sami Farooqui, and Emad Khalid, presents a case study of a 58-year-old female with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) of 20% due to ischemia, not amenable to revascularization. The patient refused heart transplant surgery and underwent 35 sessions of Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) over seven weeks. Post-EECP, she showed improvements in her Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) score, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, and ejection fraction (EF), leading to her delisting from heart transplantation. The case highlights EECP as a noninvasive outpatient treatment for ischemic HFrEF patients awaiting heart transplantation, suggesting its potential as an early intervention.
Session: Heart Failure Must See CV (Clinical Vignettes)
Location: Zone 1, Science & Technology Hall
Presenters:
- • Asif Ali MD
- • Sami Farooqui (Cena Research Institute)
- • Emad Khalid (Cena Research Institute)
DOI: 10.1161/circ.150.suppl_1.4144084
ZIP Code Stratification of Social Determinants of Health and Cardiovascular Disease Burden
Ali, A., et al. Circulation, 152(Suppl_3), Abstract 4371126
This research examines the relationship between social determinants of health (SDoH) and cardiovascular disease burden by stratifying data at the ZIP code level, providing insights into geographic health disparities and their impact on cardiovascular outcomes.
Session: AHA Scientific Sessions 2025 (#AHA25)
Location: Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, Louisiana
Analysis of Discrepancies Between Radiologist and AI CCTA Readings Across Clinical Thresholds
Ali, A., et al. Circulation, 152(Suppl_3), Abstract 4371243
This research analyzes discrepancies between radiologist interpretations and AI-powered coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) readings across different clinical thresholds, contributing to understanding of AI integration in cardiovascular imaging.
DOI: 10.1161/circ.152.suppl_3.4371243
Abstract 4371394
Ali, A., et al. Circulation, 152(Suppl_3), Abstract 4371394
Research abstract presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions and published in Circulation.
DOI: 10.1161/circ.152.suppl_3.4371394
Abstract 4371477
Ali, A., et al. Circulation, 152(Suppl_3), Abstract 4371477
Research abstract presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions and published in Circulation.
DOI: 10.1161/circ.152.suppl_3.4371477
AHA Journal Publications
AI & Machine Learning Primer in Hypertension
Co-author AHA Journal, July 2024
This publication demonstrates CRI's thought leadership in the intersection of artificial intelligence and cardiovascular research.
Clinical Trials Conducted
Clinical trials conducted or supported by CRI.
Target BP1 - Renal Denervation
Prospective, international, sham-controlled, randomized, patient- and assessor-blinded trial investigating the safety and efficacy of alcohol-mediated RDN
CRI served as a study site for this significant global phase 3 trial investigating renal denervation as a treatment for hypertension. The study employed rigorous methodology including sham controls and blinding to ensure scientific validity.
ANTHOS TIMI-76
Phase 3 Trial Evaluating Abelacimab in High-Risk Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Deemed Unsuitable for Current Anticoagulants
CRI serves as a study site for this important Phase 3 trial evaluating Abelacimab, an anticoagulant medication for patients with atrial fibrillation who cannot use current standard anticoagulant therapies. This trial addresses a critical unmet need...
Sudden Cardiac Death Prevention
Cody Stephens Foundation / House Bill 76 (Cody Stephens Bill) - Student Athlete ECG Screening
CRI offers student athletes information and the opportunity to request an electrocardiogram (ECG) screening as part of the required physical evaluation to participate in University Interscholastic League (UIL) sponsored athletic activities. House...
EECP Trial
Enhanced External Counterpulsation research including 2025 NASA HRP IWS for Post-Spaceflight Reconditioning
This comprehensive research program explores Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) applications including: Heart Transplantation, Hemodynamics, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Vascular Dementia and cognitive impairment, mild...
Thrive360 CBT Trial
Virtual reality CBT trial for stage 1–2 hypertension
A pioneering study combining virtual reality technology with cognitive behavioral therapy for hypertension management, showcasing CRI's leadership in digital therapeutics.
MedTech & AI Validation
Technology validation and device studies conducted by CRI.
Valencell Clinical Studies
Fingertip/wrist cuffless BP validation in older adults
Study 1 (Completed): n=70 hypertensive patients, ages 56-77, weight 80-350 lbs. Study 2 (Completed): n=320+ with hypertensive and hypotensive inclusion. CRI led device validation; results were presented at the American Heart Association.
Avive AED
Automated External Defibrillator validation and FDA approval
CRI served as Principal Investigator for the Avive AED study, which resulted in FDA approval and 510(k) clearance. This automated external defibrillator device represents an important advancement in emergency cardiac care technology.
HealthSeers Technologies
Cairdio/Lightscope: murmur detection | Ainthoven: AI ECG | Cloud Stream Medical Imaging: echo
CRI collaborates with HealthSeers on multiple innovative medical technologies: Cairdio/Lightscope for low-cost cardiac murmur screening, Ainthoven for AI-powered ECG analysis, and Cloud Stream Medical Imaging for echocardiography. The Cairdio device...
American Heart Association Involvement
CRI serves as a research and mentoring hub in the AHA's digital innovation pipeline, with Dr. Ali playing a leadership role in several key initiatives.
Health Tech Advisory Group (CHTI)
Dr. Ali leads subcommittees on:
- Remote Monitoring & Digital Coaching: Advancing digital health solutions for cardiovascular care
- Digital Therapeutics: Exploring technology-enabled treatment approaches
- Care Planning & AI in Practice: Integrating artificial intelligence into clinical workflows
AI Task Force
Dr. Ali co-leads a subgroup on "AI in Practice" with deans from Yale, UT Southwestern, and Ohio State, positioning CRI at the forefront of AI integration in cardiovascular medicine.
Events & Presentations
CRI's work has been featured at:
- AHA Scientific Sessions (2021–2024): Presenting research findings and innovations
Oral Presentation - November 2024:
Session: "Pixels to Predictions: Innovations in Cardiovascular Imaging"
Date: November 17, 2024, 3:30 PM - 4:45 PM
Presentation Time: 3:30 PM - 3:40 PM
Location: S104A, McCormick Place Convention Center
Presenters:
- Asif Ali MD (UT Health Science Center, Cena Research Institute)
- Sami Farooqui (Cena Research Institute)
- Yulissa Delgado (Cena Research Institute)
Abstract: "Optical Absorption Figure of Merit for Photoplethysmography-Based Cuffless Monitoring of Blood Pressure Varies Across a Diversity of Skin Tones in the Fitzpatrick Scale" (Abstract 4143416)
This presentation at the Health Innovation Pavilion highlighted CRI's research on ensuring equitable blood pressure monitoring technology across diverse populations.
- Digital Cardiac Rehab and Wearable Tech Panels: Sharing expertise on digital health solutions
- JPMorgan "Next-Gen BP Monitoring" Roundtable: Contributing to industry discussions on emerging technologies
Research Capabilities
Our multidisciplinary approach combines:
- Clinical Research Expertise: MDs, PhDs, and clinical research professionals
- Data Science & Analytics: Advanced data analysis and interpretation
- Engineering Integration: Technical validation of med-tech devices
- Translational Research: Moving innovations from bench to bedside to scalable health solutions
Collaboration Models
CRI partners with med-tech firms, academic institutions, and research sponsors to conduct clinical trials. We operate as both a research site and validation partner, bringing our expertise in inclusive trial design and diverse patient populations to collaborative research efforts.
Artificial Intelligence Case Studies
CRI is at the forefront of applying artificial intelligence in cardiovascular research and clinical practice. Our AI research spans multiple domains, demonstrating the transformative potential of AI in healthcare.
Evaluating Clinical Reasoning
CRI conducts research evaluating the clinical reasoning capabilities of large language models (LLMs) such as GPT-4, Grok, and Gemini across different fields of cardiology. This research helps understand how AI can support clinical decision-making and identify areas where AI can enhance or complement human expertise.
Mental Health Applications
CRI explores the intersection of AI and mental health, investigating how generative AI and large language models can support mental health diagnosis and treatment. Our research examines public interest and awareness of AI applications in mental health care, contributing to understanding of how AI technology can address the rising prevalence of mental illness.
Clinical Applications
Our work focuses on practical clinical applications of AI, including:
- AI-assisted diagnostics and therapeutics
- Remote patient monitoring using connected devices and generative AI
- Digital therapeutics for hypertension management
- Clinical reasoning support systems
Technological Literacy
CRI is committed to advancing technological literacy in healthcare, providing education and resources on AI and machine learning terminology and applications. Our publications serve as primers for healthcare professionals seeking to understand and implement AI technologies in their practice.
Partnerships
CRI collaborates with innovative technology partners including:
- FirstHx: Automated patient screening and eligibility determination for clinical trials
- tabia: AI-powered healthcare solutions
These partnerships enable CRI to leverage cutting-edge AI technology to improve patient care and research efficiency.