Digital Pathology Podcast

Swarm Learning in Digital Pathology: Revolutionizing Cancer Histopathology Today on the Digital Pathology Podcast  my guest is Oliver Saldana, the first author of a significant Nature Medicine paper published in 2022 on 'Swarm Learning for Decentralized Artificial Intelligence in Cancer Histopathology'. Oliver shares his journey from Mangalore, India, to Germany, where he pursued his master's and PhD, delving into histopathology and decentralized AI under the supervision of Professor Dr. Jakob Nicolas Kather. The discussion explores the concept of swarm learning as a novel method for deep learning in histopathology, its advantages over centralized learning including compliance with data protection laws like GDPR, and its potential for global collaboration in medical research without sharing sensitive data. Oliver emphasizes swarm learning’s ease of setup and its alignment with the FAIR principles for scientific data management. The podcast aims to shed light on the groundbreaking work being done in the convergence of pathology and computer science, urging researchers and pathology centers to digitize their slides and contribute to global swarm learning projects.00:00 Introduction to Swarm Learning and Its Applications00:50 Intro01:17 Meet Oliver Saldana: A Trailblazer in Decentralized AI for Cancer Histopathology03:57 Exploring the Concept of Decentralized AI and Its Importance06:52 Understanding Centralized vs. Decentralized Learning08:47 The Revolutionary Approach of Swarm Learning10:38 Blockchain's Role in Enhancing Histopathology with Swarm Learning14:50 Addressing Preprocessing and Generalizability in Swarm Learning21:26 Swarm Learning's Compliance with GDPR and Data Protection25:05 Exploring Swarm Learning in Medical Data Analysis25:34 Prototype Study and Real Cohorts in Swarm Learning27:01 Comparing Swarm Learning with Centralized Models27:44 The Role of Bare Metal Servers in Swarm Learning30:01 Centralized Slide Repositories vs. Swarm Learning44:11 Commercializing Swarm Learning Models47:07 FAIR Principles and Swarm Learning51:11 Global Ambitions and the Future of Swarm LearningTHIS EPISODES RESOURCES📝 Swarm Learning for decentralized and confidential clinical machine learning🔗 https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-021-03583-3📝The FAIR Guiding Principles for scientific data management and stewardship🔗https://www.nature.com/articles/sdata201618🎧BIGPICTURE – THE LARGEST WHOLE SLIDE REPOSITORY FOR AI MODEL DEVELOPMENT IN PATHOLOGY. WHERE DO WE STAND AT MONTH 15/72?🔗https://digitalpathologyplace.com/podcast/bigpicture-the-largest-whole-slide-repository-for-ai-model-development-in-pathology-where-do-we-stand-at-month-15-72/Support the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

Navigating Ethical Challenges in AI-Powered PathologyThis episode is a webinar recording. It  delves into the complex ethical considerations of incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) in pathology. Dr. Zuraw begins by exploring the fundamentals of ethics and moves on to discuss the impact of AI in pathology, focusing on:ethical dilemmas, data diversity issues, biases, and the importance of maintaining professional and societal ethical standards in the wake of AI integration. The session touches upon the ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks guiding ethical decision-making in healthcare, alongside the role of regulatory agencies like the FDA. It also highlights the significance of data diversity and mitigation strategies to address potential ethical pitfalls in AI utilization. The webinar emphasizes the constant balance between advancing technology and ethical responsibility, underlining the need for transparency, governance, and accountability in deploying AI tools in pathology.00:00 Introduction to Ethics in AI-Powered Pathology00:30 Exploring the Ethical Dilemmas in Healthcare00:36 Webinar Overview and Digital Pathology Insights01:05 Defining Ethics and Its Importance in AI Pathology02:05 Interactive Webinar Engagement and Audience Participation03:25 Deep Dive into Ethics: Definitions and Applications09:31 Ethical Considerations in Biomedical Research10:34 Navigating Ethical Dilemmas: A Practical Example13:57 Understanding Ethical Principles in Decision Making17:14 AI Bias and Representation in Pathology20:52 Frameworks and Guidelines for Ethical Oversight25:02 AI Applications in Pathology: Ethical Perspectives27:21 Exploring AI in Research and Its Capabilities29:22 AI's Role in Medical Imaging and Diagnostics33:11 Ethical Considerations and AI in Pathology34:04 Addressing AI Challenges: Bias, Interpretability, and Security44:26 AI as a Medical Device: Regulatory Perspectives and Future Directions49:16 Concluding Thoughts and Audience EngagementTHIS EPISODES RESOURCES:Interested in getting the slides from this presentation, click hereAI in Pathology: What could possibly go wrong (Paper)Ethics of AI in Pathology: Current Paradigms and Emerging Issues (Paper)Guardrails for the use of generalist AI in cancer care (Nature commentary)No more microscopes. How close are we to glassless pathology? W/ Dr. Richard Levenson, US Davis Health (Podcast episode)Support the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

If any of the statements applies:➡️ You know AI and Machine Learning are already part of the pathology workflow, but maybe you are not exactly sure which part of the workflow?➡️ “AI” is still a bit of overhyped, fuzzy buzzword for you?➡️ You would like to learn about how it can help pathologist and labs work smarter and patients get better care.Then this webinar is for you!This is the second part of the “Digital Pathology 101” webinar series, based on the “Digital Pathology 101” book, where Dr. Aleks Zuraw explains digital pathology and AI concepts.This journey through Chapter 3 illuminates how image analysis, AI, and machine learning not only complement traditional pathology but propel it into new realms of precision and insight.As we delve into the essence of tissue image analysis and the transformative role of AI and machine learning in modern pathology, you'll discover how these technologies augment diagnostic methods, enhance research, and redefine what's possible in our field.From the basics of tissue image analysis to the advanced realms of computer vision and the pivotal role of quality control, this webinar bridges the gap between high-level computational domains and daily pathology practice.What You'll Explore:The foundational principles of image analysis, AI, and machine learning in pathology.The crucial balance between classical and AI-based approaches to tissue image analysis and their applications in both regulated and non-regulated environments.The importance of quality control in ensuring accurate, reliable results from AI-assisted analyses.An introduction to the key terminology of pathology informatics, demystifying the language that underpins digital pathology and AI.Who Should Attend:This webinar is tailored for:🔴 pathologists,🔴 researchers, and🔴 healthcare professionalswho are eager to learn about and/or integrate AI and machine learning into their work.Whether you're just starting or looking to deepen your expertise in digital pathology, this series offers invaluable insights into leveraging technology for enhanced diagnostic precision and patient care.Date and Time:April 11, 2024 at 9:00 - 10:30 a.m., ESTLocation:OnlineAI is here, so let’s learn what it means for pathologyhow can you leverage it for your work?and how to navigate this new technology responsibly.Looking forward to seeing you on the inside!Support the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

What can digital pathology be used for? Is it just diagnostics or does it go beyond that?In this webinar, based on chapter 4 of my “Digital Pathology 101” bookyou will learn about:The transformative impact of digital pathology on healthcare.Strategies for integrating digital tools into clinical practice for improved outcomes.The pivotal role of digital pathology in advancing drug development and personalized medicine.Insights and reflections on the future directions of our profession.Join me for a session filled with enthusiasm, knowledge, and a shared vision for the future of pathology. Together, we'll uncover digital pathology's possibilities for our field and the broader healthcare community.Your engagement and curiosity drive this field forward, and I can't wait to share this time with you.Support the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

This week, the digital pathology community gathered at the United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology (USCAP) annual meeting in Baltimore. I had the incredible opportunity to attend, spurred by an invitation from Hamamatsu, known for their revolutionary digital pathology scanners like the FDA-cleared S360 and the new S20 model.Key Takeaways from USCAP:Innovative Partnerships and Technology: My agenda was filled with meetings that explored the latest in digital pathology. Key highlights include the launch of Hamamatsu's S20 scanner, Techcyte's technological advancements, and Proscia's FDA-approved AP Dx software. The collaboration between Hamamatsu and Agilent, utilizing Proscia's platform, underscored the collaborative spirit driving the field forward.Community Engagement and Recognition: The warmth and recognition from the community were overwhelming. It reinforced the value of our work and the podcast, blending technical insights with personal stories that underline the human aspect of pathology.Advancing Research and Education: A standout moment was learning about the World Tumor Registry initiative from Andrey Bychkov and Alyaksandr Nikitski. This initiative marks a significant step in making valuable pathological data more accessible for research and education, starting with a comprehensive collection of thyroid case slides.Looking Forward:The USCAP meeting was a testament to the enthusiasm and innovation within digital pathology. Stay tuned for a detailed video blog covering the conference, highlighting the S20 and more, coming soon on YouTube!USCAP BULLET UPDATESHamamatsu: Known for their FDA-cleared scanner, S360, and the newly launched S20 model.Techcyte: Discussed their dynamic evolution and upcoming projects and their partnership with BD for cervical cytology AI based evaluation.Corista: Learned about their software advancements, including voice recognition for improving pathologist workflows.Smart In Media: Discussed their new camera for microscopes and grossing rooms.Proscia: Celebrated their FDA clearance for the AP Dx software.Epredia: Showcased their pathology equipment, including scanners like the P1000 with water immersion.Aiforia: Highlighted their AI for image analysis, especially the GLP-compliant module for toxicologic pathology.Indica Labs: Featured their pathologist cockpit setup and discussed their comprehensive software solutions.PathPresenter: Met with the CEO, Patrick Myles, and discussed the company's rapid growth and services.Pramana: Discussed their archival scanning services and their new benchtop scanner that runs algorithms during scanning.Grundium: Showed off their new four-slide scanning Ocus and the cute one-slide Ocus scanner. Andrej Bychkov to discuss his poster on the use of ChatGPT by pathologists and told me about the World Tumor Registry initiative.Support the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

She did it all on her own, to keep serving her patients. In this episode of Digital Pathology Podcast, host Dr. Aleksandra Zuraw is joined by Dr. Elizabeth Plocharczyk, a pathologist based in Ithaca, New York. Beth shares her experience integrating digital pathology into her practice at Guthrie Cortland Medical Center and Cayuga Medical Center at Ithaca, NY. Her journey offers insights into the practicalities of adopting digital tools in a community hospital setting.🔥 The discussion highlights:The factors that influenced Beth to start using digital pathology.How digital tools have addressed challenges related to being a solo practitioner in a rural area.The significance of compliance, internal validation, and administrative support in transitioning to digital pathology. Suggestions for pathologists considering digital pathology, emphasizing iterative implementation and the importance of validation regardless of FDA approval status.Dr. Plocharczyk's account underscores the role of digital pathology in enhancing the efficiency and flexibility of pathology practice, especially in geographically constrained settings. The episode provides a REALISTIC OVERVIEW OF TRANSITIONING TO DIGITAL PATHOLOGY, including overcoming potential hurdles and leveraging technology for more effective pathology services.Be sure to watch or listen to the full episode, as Dr. Plocharchyk reveals all the details about the equipment she used, the way she validated the system as well as her budget. This episode is particularly relevant for pathologists and healthcare professionals exploring digital pathology's potential to improve practice management and patient care. Questions that will be answered: Who is Dr. Beth? What did her pathology practice look like before digital pathology?When did Dr. Beth start using digital pathology?What was impossible before going digital? How did you determine which tools to use?Why did you opt for Whole Slide Imaging, for frozen sections?What was the budget and how did you know this is a reasonable budget?How long have you had the equipment?If budget was not a constraint, what would you add to your digital pathology arsenal?Are you building your tools or seeking the help of a third-party provider? What does the day-to-day practice with your digital pathology tools look like?How have the community hospitals responded to the new cutting-edge technology?What advice would you give to those starting with digital pathology?Would digital pathology help you grow your practice?THIS EPISODE RESOURCES:Smart in Media PathoZoom Live View and Scan: 🔗 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZA9HX3qSfk&list=UULF-bagVf7bqp3L0bAdNYaaQgGrundium Ocus Whole Slide Scanner:🔗 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dq-vdOL9Q9Q&list=UULF-bagVf7bqp3L0bAdNYaaQgSupport the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

Remote Digital Second Opinions: Pioneering Global Patient CareImagine a future where accessing world-class diagnostic expertise is just a click away for any patient, anywhere. In this episode you will learn how remote digital second opinions, a specialized application of digital pathology, can drive global adoption of digital pathology  and significantly expand access to patient care. Together with Dr. Raj Singh, founder of PathPresenter, we explore this cutting-edge approach that promises to transcend current digital pathology uses, making specialized medical consultations more accessible and efficient than ever before.The Evolution of Digital PathologyDigital pathology is rapidly becoming indispensable in modern healthcare. It equips pathologists with advanced digital tools and platforms, significantly boosting the speed and scope of diagnoses.  Remote second opinion has a transformative role here. By leveraging digital slides and cloud-based infrastructure, pathologists can collaborate seamlessly across distances, breaking down geographical barriers like never before.PathPresenter: Filling the Gaps in Pathology WorkflowDr. Singh unfolds the story behind PathPresenter, highlighting its inception, mission, and the significant void it fills within the pathology field. PathPresenter is more than a platform; it's a catalyst for bridging educational and clinical gaps in pathology. It enables effortless sharing and collaborative analysis of cases among pathologists globally, fostering a vast network of professional expertise.Embracing the Digital Shift: A Call to ActionThe shift towards digital workflows is not merely a technological leap but a comprehensive strategy to enhance patient care, ensuring diagnoses are faster, more accurate, and widely accessible.The transition to digital pathology is inevitable and it is happening quickly.  Dr. Singh emphasizes the urgency for pathologists and healthcare institutions to adapt to these technological advances proactively. Proactive adoption will give us the power to decide how we want to implement digital pathology and what tools we want to use. If the pathology community does not take charge of this process it will be imposed on us by others. We don't want to figure out how to digitize slides in a panic mode when other specialties require it for patient care. We want to be in the drivers seat and guide the patient care according to the most up-to-date pathology expertise. Why This Matters More Than EverIn an era where healthcare demands are ever-increasing, and the need for specialized knowledge is paramount, digital pathology and remote second opinions present an unprecedented opportunity. This application democratizes access to expert diagnostics, ensuring patients, regardless of location, receive the best care possible. It's more than an advancement; it's a new way of thinking about and delivering pathology services. Explore the vast possibilities remote second opinions offer and how they serve as a bridge to a more connected, efficient, and patient-centric healthcare system.THIS EPISODE'S RESOURCESPathPresenter websitePervious episode with Dr. Raj Singh (when PathPresenter was just for presentations:)Support the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

Today our special guest is Dr. Keith Kaplan, the creator of TissuePathology.com himself! The publisher of a platform that inspired the creation of Digital Pathology Place. The Digital Pathology Trailblazer on the WebDr. Keith Kaplan, a surgical pathologist  and a pivotal figure in the digital pathology community, has significantly contributed to the field with his groundbreaking website, tissuepathology.com. His passion and dedication have made his platform the first resource many turn to when searching for anything related to digital pathology.From Traditional to DigitalDr. Kaplan's unique journey in pathology began in Chicago, shaped by his military service and academic path at Northwestern University. His early exposure to telepathology and digital imaging during his military tenure set the stage for his impactful venture into digital pathology, initiating a transformative career trajectory.TissuePathology.com: A Pioneering PlatformDr. Kaplan launched tissuepathology.com, driven by his enthusiasm for utilizing the internet to disseminate knowledge. This platform quickly became a leading blog in the digital pathology realm, motivating others to establish their blogs and engage in the dynamic digital pathology conversation.The Evolution of Digital PathologyKeith's  work with robotic telepathology and his involvement in deploying digital pathology solutions across various settings highlight the significant advancements in the field. His stories of early digital pathology efforts, including the deployment of systems for military applications and the subsequent adoption in civilian medical practice, showcase the progressive integration of technology in pathology.Embracing Change: The Digital ShiftRecently Dr. Kaplan's practice  transitioned to digital pathology for primary diagnosis. The integration of digital pathology has streamlined diagnostic processes, enabling faster and more efficient patient care despite initial reservations about moving away from traditional microscopy.Future Directions and Ongoing ChallengesLooking ahead,  the future of digital pathology will be impacted by AI and the ongoing pathology workforce shortage. Keith emphasizes the need for the pathology community to adapt and embrace new technologies while also addressing regulatory, ethical, and practical challenges.  THIS EPISODE's RESOURCES:THIS EPISODE's RESOURCES:Ten important lessons we have learned as pathology bloggers (Paper)First 100 days of using digital pathology (LinkedIn post)Digital pathology is just pathology, but does it matter anymore? (LinkedIn article)Dr. Keith Kaplan's blog tissuepathology.comDigital Pathology Club - course membershipSupport the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

This is the audio version of the second  episode of the DIGITAL PATHOLOGY NEWSLETTER. that should have already landed in your inbox if you are on my digital pathology trailblazer list. (And if you are not, you can get on it here, and get a free PFD of my "Digital Pathology 101" book)HERE ARE THIS EPISODE'S RESOURCES:Digital Pathology Trailblazer CornerWe hit 10K followers on LinkedIn! Thank you so much!Interesting DP Research & DevelopmentsAI in Pathology: What could possibly go wrong (the official paper)AI in Pathology: What could possibly go wrong (the authors version on LinkedIn)Interviews & Opinion from DP ExpertsLast podcast episode with Dr. Richard Levenson about glassless pathology and AI. So  informative and entertaining!Educational ResourcesThe FREE online course for those starting the digital pathology journey - The Digital Pathology Starter KitDPA Webinar "Remote Sign Out. Myths and Reality" by Dr. Giovanni LujanCool DP EquipmentSmall microscope camera I'm exploring called PathoZoomPodcast with Dr. Martin Weihrauch, the CEO of Smart in Media - the producer of PathoZoomQuick Bullet Updates of What I'm Up ToWaiting for the Foldscope, a little paper microscope, to arrive. Support the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

Can pathology be truly digital without getting rid of glass?In this  episode with Dr. Richard Levenson, Professor and Vice Chair for Strategic Technologies at the Pathology Department of UC Davis, you’ll learn how close we are to “glassless pathology” and other digital innovations that could transform the field.In this episode we cover:Richard's BackgroundWith an eclectic background spanning English literature, medical school, research, and even a tech startup, Richard brings unique expertise in digital pathology. At UC Davis, he's pioneering new microscopy methods like MUSE and FIBI that enable imaging thick tissue sections without slides or stains.Pigeon ResearchYou may also know Richard for his famously viral research training pigeons to detect cancer in pathology slides. As he explains, “Pigeons have the skills to tell...tiny, tiny pattern differences” critical for pathological diagnosis. This project brought fun and creativity to his lab, even as they push new frontiers in glassless pathology.Histolix and Glassless PathologyHis company Histolix is commercializing the glassless pathology approach, which Richard envisions bringing pathology on par with radiology’s direct-to-digital workflow. Their validation study already achieved 97% concordance between glassless and standard H&E reads. As Richard explains, these techniques “open up the possibility for rapid intraoperative diagnosis without freezing or sectioning.”Digital Pathology InnovationCombined with AI, innovations like these could automate workflow steps like staining, analysis, and prioritization. However, as their recent paper explores, AI does pose risks. Richard believes we must tread carefully, using human oversight and judgment to guide implementation. Still, he sees great potential to augment diagnostics with computational tools.ConclusionThere’s no better guide to exploring these frontiers than Richard. Tune into the full conversation using the link above for an insightful tour of digital pathology’s cutting edge. Check Histolix for the latest on their research, and access key publications from Richard’s lab through the links below. Where will you help take pathology next?THIS EPISODES RESOURCESHistolix websiteA Pilot Validation Study Comparing Fluorescence-Imitating Brightfield Imaging, A Slide-Free Imaging Method, With Standard Formalin-Fixed, Paraffin-Embedded Hematoxylin-Eosin-Stained Tissue Section Histology for Primary Surgical Pathology DiagnosisPocket MUSE: an affordable, versatile and high-performance fluorescence microscope using smartphone. AI in Pathology: What could possibly go wrong?Pigeons (Columba livia) as Trainable Observers of Pathology and Radiology Breast Cancer Images. Support the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

This is the audio version of the first brand new DIGITAL PATHOLOGY NEWSLETTER. that should have already landed in your inbox if you are subscribed to my list. If not you can join here (and get the PDF of my book for free!)THIS EPISODE'S RESOURCES:Interesting DP Research & DevelopmentsSwarm learning for decentralized artificial intelligence in cancer histopathologyInterviews & Opinion from DP ExpertsLast podcast episode with Dr. Talat Zehra about how AI is transforming pathology in developing countriesEducational Resources"Digital Pathology 101. All you need to know to start and continue your digital pathology journey"- BookCool DP EquipmentUnboxing and Setup of a Microscope Monitor DisplayQuick Bullet Updates of What I'm Up ToReading Digital Pathology Papers with Text to Speech Software | Natural Reader review Support the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

What is the status of digital pathology  in under-researched areas? Is it even a thing? Can it be used? And in what capacity?In this exciting episode with Dr. Talat Zehra, a trailblazing pathologist from Karachi, Pakistan, and a finalist on the Pathologist Power List we are answering all the above questions. Dr. Zehra is a beacon of innovation and determination, reshaping the landscape of healthcare in her region.🔍 Don’t Miss:The Trailblazing Journey in Digital Pathology: Learn about Dr. Zehra's path to becoming a leader in digital pathology.Addressing Challenges in Low-Resource Settings: Discover how digital pathology can overcome healthcare barriers.Impact of Digital Tools in Developing Nations: Explore the transformative effect of technology in pathology.The Future of Pathology: Insights into embracing AI and upcoming trends in the field. Dr. Zehra takes us through her groundbreaking journey in digital pathology. She shares her evolution from using basic static imaging techniques to embracing AI-enhanced pathology, overcoming numerous challenges to pioneer advanced pathology technologies in Pakistan.Listen as Dr. Zehra recounts her mission to elevate pathology education and technology. Her story is a powerful testament to how dedication and innovative thinking can break down global healthcare barriers, transforming the field of pathology with a blend of cutting-edge technology and unwavering perseverance.Support the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

Exploring Image Analysis Innovation with Trevor McKee of Pathomics.ioIf you work in digital pathology, you likely rely on image analysis tools to gain insights from complex visual data. But how do you stay on top of the latest innovations in this fast-evolving field?In this podcast episode together with Trevor McKee, CEO of Pathomics.io, we discuss innovation in image analysis using open source tools.Pathomics takes an innovative approach by building image analysis solutions on open source platforms like QuPath. As Trevor explained, open source fosters collaboration, democratizes access, and drives rapid advances - key in a fast-moving field like digital pathology. This enables rapid progress that proprietary systems can't match.Trevor's Career JourneyTrevor’s journey lead him from chemical engineering into pioneering image analysis, inspired by solving complex biological problems. His diverse experiences, from photon imaging at MIT to leading a core lab facility, fueled a passion for leveraging image analysis to extract insights. Today, in addition to leading Pathomics.io he is an Adjunct Lecturer at the University of Toronto,  and the Chief Scientific Officer at BioCache™ Lab Solutions.Transparent and Reproducible Image Analysis & Explainable AIA core ethos at Pathomics is making image analysis transparent and reproducible.  through explainable AI techniques. Tools like XGBoost create models that are easier to interpret than "black-box" end-to-end neural networks. This builds trust and acceptance among the scientific community.Streamlining WorkflowsIn addition, Pathomics develops solutions to streamline clients' image analysis workflows. For example, their Universal StarDist plugin makes it easy to run advanced models like StarDist in QuPath. Overall, the goal is to automate tedious tasks so you can concentrate on high-value decision making.The Future of Image AnalysisLooking ahead, Trevor shared his vision for an AI-powered online platform enabling users to go seamlessly from images to insights. He also discussed open wikis to prevent redundant work and encourage knowledge sharing as the field rapidly evolves.Trevor  plans to launch it to catalogue digital pathology resources such as image analysis focused machine learning papers  to prevent redundant research work and encourage knowledge sharing as the field rapidly evolves.. It aligns with his commitment to open science and community knowledge sharing.Key TakeawaysI came away from our wide-ranging discussion with an insider’s view of the huge potential of image analysis to transform digital pathology. By leveraging open source tools and staying atop the latest advances, you can work smarter and unlock new capabilities.So tune in to explore these innovations and more from a leader in the field! The episode provides practical insights you can apply to make the most of the newest techniquesTHIS EPISODE'S RESOURCES:Pathomics.io website Pathomics Wiki with tissue image analysis papersInterested in contributing to Pathomics Wiki? Submit your entry here.List of open source software for image analysisDigital Pathology Club Free TrSupport the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

In this episode, based on a webinar I recently gave, I delve deep into the captivating world of Natural Language Processing (NLP) and its role in pathology. Have you ever pondered how language models like ChatGPT are shaping our scientific understanding? Or how they might redefine the way we process and interpret vast amounts of data? Let's embark on this journey together as I share my insights and findings.Key Points: The ChatGPT Debate: Is ChatGPT a revolutionary tool or a looming data concern? I've heard the buzz in the digital pathology community, and I'm here to shed light on this debate.Natural Language Processing (NLP): As a branch of AI, NLP is transforming industries. From tools like Google Translate to Siri, it's evident NLP's influence is vast. But how does it intertwine with pathology?The Might of Large Language Models: Imagine models trained on data equivalent to streaming 4K movies non-stop for years! Their ability to predict and generate text opens up a world of possibilities.The Transformer Architecture: It's the game-changer in NLP. It's not just about words; it's about discerning patterns and extracting logic from data.Ethical Considerations: With the power of these models comes immense responsibility. I'll discuss the ethical dilemmas we face, especially in medicine and pathology.The horizon of pathology is expanding with the advancements in AI and NLP. As I delve deeper into tools like ChatGPT, I believe it's imperative to stay updated and make informed decisions. I prepared a book for you that is a great starting point: "Digital Pathology 101". You can grab the FREE PDF here. Interested in viewing the webinar presentations itself? You can view the webinar here.Support the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

The Future Landscape of Digital Pathology: Insights from Kate Lillard Tunstall, Indica LabsWhat insights can be gained from a 12-year-long digital pathology journey as part of one of the leading tissue image analysis solution providers? A lot has happened in that time and Kate Lillard Tunstall, the Chief Scientific Officer at Indica Labs, shares her vast knowledge and experiences in this podcast episode. With a career spanning over a decade, Kate has witnessed firsthand the transformative shifts in the industry.The Genesis of Halo:Kate reminisced about the early days of Indica Labs and the birth of their core product, the Halo platform. Designed with precision and adaptability in mind, Halo has become a beacon in the digital pathology and tissue image analysis landscape. The platform's name, inspired by the unique halo-like appearance around cells visible during image analysis, showcases Indica Labs' attention to detail and their connection to the core of pathology.Services Beyond Software:Indica Labs isn't just about software; they offer a plethora of services tailored to the needs of the pharma sector and beyond. Their pharma services team, which has been around the longest, acts as a bridge between product development and real-world application. By serving as an internal customer, this team ensures that Indica Labs' offerings are not only cutting-edge but also practical and user-friendly.Embracing the AI Revolution:The integration of AI into digital pathology was a significant pivot point for Indica Labs. Kate candidly shared her initial skepticism towards AI's role in pathology. However, witnessing the profound impact of deep learning, especially in tissue classification, turned her into a believer. By 2017, Indica Labs had fully embraced AI, setting itself apart in the industry.Looking Ahead:Kate's vision for the future is a world where digital pathology isn't the exception but the norm. As more hospitals and health systems go digital, the volume of data will skyrocket. This data surge, combined with the power of AI, promises unprecedented advancements in pathology. Kate also shared lessons from Strata, a project aimed at merging image analysis data with patient data. Spoiler alert - the project was not pursued, but the challenges it faced underscored the importance of innovation adaptability and a deep understanding of customer needs in the world of digital pathology.----------------------------------------------------Dive into the world of digital pathology and stay updated with the latest breakthroughs. Subscribe now! For those eager to delve deeper, join the Digital Pathology Club and secure your copy of the e-book "Digital Pathology 101" ----------------------------------------------------#DigitalPathology #PathologyInnovations #IndicaLabs #AIRevolution #Halo #FutureTrendsSupport the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

Toxicologic pathology plays a critical role in drug development, yet its intersection with digital pathology is often overlooked. As a veterinary pathologist, I want to shed light on this important application. This is Chapter 5 of the "Digital Pathology 101" book and in this chapter, you will learn  how whole slide imaging is transforming preclinical trials. I'll explain key concepts like creating faithful digital replicas of glass slides. We'll also dive into validations needs for digital systems in regulated GLP studies.Whole Slide Imaging OverviewI'll start by explaining whole slide imaging. This technology creates 2D digital copies of glass slides. The focus is not 3D images, but flat digital images containing the visual information pathologists need for analysis and reporting.The FDA states these digital images can substitute for glass slides in preclinical toxicity studies, provided they meet requirements as "faithful digital replicas." With proper validations, digital slides enable remote assessments for multisite trials.Validation and DocumentationFor regulated GLP studies, replacing glass slides necessitates validating the whole digital pathology system. This includes IT infrastructure, scanners, software and more based on intended use. Documentation is also key. Peer review statements should note the use of digital slides. Images must be securely stored and transmitted to maintain raw data integrity.ConclusionIn closing, the FDA's guidance on digital pathology in preclinical trials signals an important step towards regulatory acceptance. Digital tools promise more controlled, efficient toxicity assessments, ultimately advancing drug development.This chapter provides a compass for teams navigating digital pathology in regulated environments. Understanding principles of validation, security, and transparency allows us to realize the benefits while ensuring high standards.You can find the original FDA guidance document this chapter is based on here:Use of Whole Slide Imaging in Nonclinical toxicology Studies: Questions & Answers. Or you can watch me explain the guidelines here:What does the FDA Say About Digital Pathology for Nonclinical Toxicology Studies?-------------------------------------------------------Get the PDF of "Digital Pathology 101" Book hereGet the paper copy  of "Digital Pathology 101" on AMAZONWatch the "Digital Pathology 101" Book Launch hereSupport the showSupport the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

Get the PDF of "Digital Pathology 101" Book hereHave you started your digital pathology journey already? Chances are that if you are reading this, you have. You have started it in a particular point of "digital pathology entry". Maybe it was tissue image analysis, virtual rounds on whole slide images or validation of a scanner. My "digital pathology entry point" was tissue image analysis and only through the lens of this application have I learned what are the other digital pathology applications. In this chapter you will learn about all the current applications of digital pathology. Because of where I started my journey I will always be biased towards tissue image analysis and AI, but revisiting the overview provided in this chapter will help me have all the other applications in mind, when I continue my journey of promoting digital pathology in the scientific and medical community. I hope it will be a good basis for you as well. So let's dive into the contents. Here is what you will learn in Chapter 4 of the "Digital Pathology 101" book:We'll start by looking at the clinical applications. This includes the use of digital pathology for primary diagnosis in surgical pathology and cytopathology. It facilitates more detailed examination and collaboration between pathologists. We'll also discuss how telepathology enables remote intraoperative consultations and second opinion consults. And we'll touch on the education and training benefits, from resident teaching to continuing medical education. Moving to research, we outline key applications like quantitative image analysis, AI and machine learning for predictive modeling, and high throughput analysis.  collaboration, allowing researchers to simultaneously access images large scale studies and validation across institutions.In drug development, digital pathology enhances preclinical histopathology and biomarker evaluation clinical trials by eliminating slide shipment and enabling centralized review.Digital tools can also assist in developing companion diagnostics, although regulatory requirements here are still evolving.While each application has its challenges, the overarching benefit of digital pathology is its capacity to connect workflows, enhance efficiency, and open new possibilities across clinical, research, and drug development spheres. Understanding the breadth of these applications provides a compass for navigating our own digital pathology journeys.Enjoy this chapter and I'll talk to you in chapter 5.-------------------------------------------------------Get the PDF of "Digital Pathology 101" Book hereGet the paper copy  of "Digital Pathology 101" on AMAZONWatch the "Digital Pathology 101" Book Launch hereSupport the showSupport the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

Get the PDF of "Digital Pathology 101" Book hereImage analysis has supported pathology since the introduction of whole slide scanners to the market, and when deep learning entered the scene of computer vision tissue image analysis gained superpowers. There are regulatory compliant AI-based image analysis tools available for practicing pathology around the globe. So what shall you do, just embrace them and start using? I would learn a bit about image analysis and AI first, to be able to make an informed decision. Good news, you can get all the information needed for this informed decision from this very chapter of the "Digital Pathology 101" book that I have published for you. From Chapter 3 you will learn the fundamentals of tissue image analysis and how it helps extract meaningful data from digital pathology images. We break it down into basic concepts like regions and objects of interest, matching computer vision techniques to pathology tasks, and the differences between classical machine learning and AI-based deep learning approaches.  Understanding these foundations sets the stage for appreciating how image analysis is applied in regulated clinical settings versus exploratory research environments. You will  learn the importance of quality control, because flawed data inputs inevitably lead to faulty outputs, regardless of the analysis method used.Moving on, you will familiarize yourself with the key terminology from the world of artificial intelligence and machine learning. The chapter clarifies the meaning of concepts like supervised learning, GPUs, data augmentation, and heat maps. It emphasizes how techniques like patching and data augmentation enable the training of machine learning algorithms on large datasets. Ultimately, by comprehending this terminology and the basics of tissue image analysis, you'll gain clarity on how these tools can provide decision support to pathologists through computer-aided diagnosis. Rather than seeing AI as a black box, you'll have insight into how it arrives at its outputs. With this balanced understanding, you'll be equipped to make discerning choices about embracing AI tools in your pathology practice, leveraging their benefits while being aware of current limitations. Stay tuned as we continue unpacking the transformative potential of digital pathology!Talk to you in chapter 4!-------------------------------------------------------Get the PDF of "Digital Pathology 101" Book hereGet the paper copy  of "Digital Pathology 101" on AMAZONWatch the "Digital Pathology 101" Book Launch hereSupport the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

Get the PDF of "Digital Pathology 101" Book hereAs enthusiastic as the digital pathology community is about digital pathology, you are also grounded in reality and know that like every technology, digital pathology in parallel with its enormous benefits also has some drawbacks.This is the second chapter of the "Digital Pathology 101" book and in this episode, I take a balanced look at the pros and cons of going digital. BenefitsFirst, we highlight some of the key advantages: enhanced accuracy and efficiency in diagnostics, seamless collaboration opportunities, advanced research capabilities, integration with digital health systems, and exciting educational prospects. Real-world examples showcase how these benefits have been leveraged, like the successful implementation of digital workflows in a large US hospital and the application of digital pathology in pharmaceutical research.ChallengesHowever, we acknowledge this new frontier has its challenges. Technological hurdles around image quality, data storage, and management are significant. Navigating regulatory compliance and acceptance within the pathology community will take time. Cost-efficiency and specialized training remain issues to tackle.Yet for each obstacle, there are solutions and opportunities to learn. Case studies teach us how institutions overcame cost barriers through long-term planning and addressed training needs via technology partnerships. Constant advances promise more efficient scanning and sophisticated cloud storage on the horizon. And an evolving regulatory environment is steadily validating digital tools, albeit with a need to standardize guidelines.While adoption is uneven, momentum is building towards digitization. By understanding the landscape and staying engaged with developments, pathologists can shape an ethical integration of these tools. Guided by both optimism and pragmatism, we can realize the potential of digital pathology to transform patient care.-------------------------------------------------------Get the PDF of "Digital Pathology 101" Book hereGet the paper copy  of "Digital Pathology 101" on AMAZONWatch the "Digital Pathology 101" Book Launch hereSupport the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership

This is the second part of the first chapter of the recently published “Digital Pathology 101” book. This part of the chapter addresses a question that I keep hearing from those just entering the world of digital pathology: “Will pathologists lose their jobs now, that algorithms can be developed to diagnose disease?”The short answer is “No”.Keep reading for the explanation why not.The Rise of Deep LearningOne of the most notable trends has been the rise of deep learning and AI in digital pathology. These advanced techniques are being embraced by the pathology community to analyze complex issues from sclerotic glomeruli through liver fibrosis to different types of cancer. The user-friendliness of new tools powered by deep learning makes it accessible even for non-experts.Industry Paradigm Shifts  Several paradigm shifts are occurring in the digital pathology industry:Transition from handcrafted algorithms to deep learningShift to cloud-based Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions Movement towards pathologist decision support systems rather than fully autonomous analysisEnhanced user-friendliness of digital pathology softwareEmpowering PathologistsAn important change has been the emphasis on empowering pathologists with decision support systems rather than replacing them with algorithms. The goal is to accelerate the case review process without compromising accuracy or integrity. Pathologists remain responsible for the final diagnosis.Blending Analog and Digital WorldsSome innovative companies are pioneering solutions to blend traditional microscopes and digital pathology, such as Augmentics' augmented reality microscope cameras or systems used by Smart in Media. This allows professionals to collaborate in real-time and apply algorithms while still using the cherished microscope. Personalized Digital Pathology The industry has moved away from a one-size-fits-all approach to personalized solutions tailored to each institution's workflow and challenges. This shift leverages the power of deep learning while enhancing user experience.The trusted microscope remains an essential part of pathology, but digital solutions open new doors for analysis and efficiency. As this field evolves, quality control and understanding the capabilities and limitations of technology is crucial.Exciting times are ahead in digital pathology! Be sure to listen to the full podcast episode for an in-depth discussion.-------------------------------------------------------Get the PDF of "Digital Pathology 101" Book hereGet the paper copy  of "Digital Pathology 101" on AMAZONRead the original blog post "New Trends and Paradigm Shifts in the Digital Pathology Industry"Watch the "Digital Pathology 101" Book Launch hereSupport the showBecome a Digital Pathology Trailblazer and See you inside the club: Digital Pathology Club Membership