TL;DR:
- Boise State University’s Wastewater Epidemiology Laboratory, led by Professor Greg Hampikian, introduces a groundbreaking machine learning model.
- The model utilizes wastewater analysis to predict COVID-19 deaths and hospitalizations.
- Significant correlations were found between viral particle spikes in sewage and subsequent hospitalization and mortality increases.
- Published in Science of the Total Environment, offering free access on Science Direct.
- The paper’s authors include Boise State graduates Ernie Ogden and Swarna Kanchan, along with other contributors.
Main AI News:
In a groundbreaking development, the Wastewater Epidemiology Laboratory at Boise State University, spearheaded by Professor Greg Hampikian of the Department of Biology, has unveiled an innovative machine learning model designed to forecast COVID-19-related fatalities and hospitalizations. Their pioneering approach involves analyzing wastewater samples for traces of the virus, which has yielded remarkable insights. According to the model’s findings, surges in viral particles detected in sewage treatment facilities corresponded closely with spikes in hospital admissions 14 days later and, tragically, with an increase in deaths 23 days afterward. This game-changing research has been formally documented in a peer-reviewed paper, now available for public access on the Science Direct website as part of the latest issue of Science of the Total Environment.
The distinguished list of authors behind this seminal paper features Boise State alumni Ernie Ogden and Swarna Kanchan, both of whom contributed significantly during their tenure at the lab. In addition, the research team includes four undergraduate biology majors, a master’s student specializing in science, and a postdoctoral researcher affiliated with the laboratory.
Dr. Hampikian expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “This is truly a realization of our long-held aspirations. Over a decade ago, we began advocating that wastewater held untapped potential as a crucial health asset. Back then, few believed in our vision, but now, it has emerged as an indispensable epidemiological tool, demonstrating its ability to foresee both hospitalizations and fatalities. Our model equips healthcare facilities and caregivers with invaluable time to prepare and allocate critical resources, a capability that extends beyond COVID-19. We envision a future where our model can be employed to address a myriad of diseases.“
Conclusion:
This pioneering research by Boise State University’s Wastewater Epidemiology Laboratory holds immense potential for the healthcare market. The ability to predict COVID-19 impact based on wastewater analysis can revolutionize resource allocation, allowing hospitals and care providers to better prepare for surges in cases. Beyond COVID-19, this model’s adaptability suggests it could become a powerful tool for addressing various diseases, enhancing the overall resilience and efficiency of healthcare systems.
