Periodic Reporting for period 1 - HoloZcan (Deep Learning Powered Holographic Microscopy for Biothreat Detection on Field)
Okres sprawozdawczy: 2021-05-01 do 2022-10-31
Being able to detect and classify airborne biological threats in a timely manner is important for society because it helps to protect public health and safety. Early detection and identification of biological agents can allow for a prompt response and prevent the spread of disease. It also allows for the implementation of control measures, such as quarantine and decontamination procedures. This is especially important in the context of potential bioterrorism attacks. Rapid and accurate detection and classification also enable more targeted and effective responses, reducing unnecessary disruption and costs.
Overall objectives:
The overall aim is to enhance the capability of CBRN practitioners in detecting and classifying pathogens and particles in real time and in various contexts. The project also aims to address identified shortcomings in current bio-threat agent detection approaches and respond to the needs of European practitioners.
The project aims to demonstrate the versatility and technical feasibility of the HoloZcan technique for a wide range of applications. It addresses the specific needs of European practitioners and technological gaps identified by the ENCIRCLE project, as well as shortcomings of current bio-threat agent detection approaches.
The HoloZcan project has made progress in developing algorithms for the detection system, constantly updating and improving them through the analysis of state-of-the-art techniques for holographic image processing. The focus of the algorithm development has been on digital holographic image reconstruction, detection, and classification. The project team has also carried out simulations of holograms in order to have a realistic data set to investigate the representation of holographic features, train models, assist in system design and optimization and compare different configuration parameters.
The project has also established an iterative, test-driven approach since the beginning of the project to connect the complex workflows between the digital holographic microscope (DHM) prototype development, data analysis algorithm development, data collection and demonstration. The project team has also put significant effort into building an interdisciplinary bridge between experts from various fields such as microbiology, hardware engineering, database building, data analysis and communication experts. This approach allows for a comprehensive approach to the project, ensuring that all aspects are properly addressed and integrated.
If the ability of CBRN professionals to detect and measure bioaerosols (ambient and exhaled) is increased, it could have a significant impact in several areas. Some potential benefits include:
• Enhanced public safety: The improved detection and measurement of bioaerosols will help to identify and respond to potential biological threats more quickly and effectively, thereby increasing the overall safety of the public.
• Increased efficiency and cost saving in emergency response: The use of portable, high-resolution detection systems for bioaerosols will increase the efficiency of emergency response efforts, enabling CBRN professionals to quickly and accurately identify and respond to potential threats in a variety of settings.
• Improved intelligence gathering: The ability to detect and measure bio-aerosols in the field can also provide valuable intelligence on the spread of bio-aerosols, which can be used to improve future response efforts and develop countermeasures.