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This is the first article of a two-part series. Read Part 2 here.
Singapore is recognised as one of the safest countries in the world and has been holding that record for a long time. The nation topped the list for Gallup’s Global Law and Order Index for the year 2019, with an index score of 97 out of a possible 100. The Singapore Government has always been staying on top of all issues concerning the safety and security of the people.
With the ongoing COVID-19 situation, Singapore had shifted its Disease Outbreak Response System Condition (DORSCON) level from yellow to orange on Friday, 7 February. With the nation stepping up efforts to protect its citizens and businesses while fighting the spread of the virus, OpenGov looks to understand the measures taken by government agencies to handle such situations.
OpenGov had the opportunity to sit with Dr Lee Fook Kay, Chief Scientist at the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), to obtain more insights into how MHA is harnessing science and technology (S&T) in viable and innovative ways to ensure that it is at the forefront of safety and security efforts.
Dr Lee was appointed as the first Chief Scientist of MHA in April 2019. Prior to his appointment as Chief Scientist and since 2008, Dr Lee Fook Kay had been the Chief Science and Technology Officer at MHA.
In that role, he steered and led MHA’s development efforts in CBRNE (chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and high-yield explosives), Forensics, Video Analytics, Biometrics, Profiling, Robotics, Automation, Artificial Intelligence and Human Factors, amongst others.
In particular, Dr Lee has had more than twenty years of experience in the CBRNE domain and has been instrumental in the strategic building and development of CBRNE capabilities in Singapore.
Today, he remains a key advisor in the National Advisory Board that oversees the strategic and policy issues in CBRNE. Dr Lee was also appointed as Singapore’s expert member in the IAEA Emergency Preparedness and Response Expert Group (EPREG) from 2012-2015.
Singapore’s technological capabilities for safety and security
Dr Lee strongly believes that the Home Team is well-positioned in terms of its technological readiness and that it has the zest to develop cutting edge technologies, for the Home Team is in the heart of each of its scientists and engineers.
Dr Lee said that one of MHA’s strongest capabilities is its laboratory network within Singapore, which can analyse an entire range of security-sensitive materials (SSM). This includes CBRNE and narcotics. This is particularly useful at Singapore’s border checkpoints, where analyses can be quickly conducted to determine if SSM is being smuggled into the country, during detection of suspicious activities. Dr Lee believes that this capability is the first of its kind in the world.
Importance of taking citizens’ needs into consideration for technology development
Dr Lee noted that technology development efforts, in the safety and security arena, were previously tended to emphasise improvements in systems, over human performance. Besides looking at improving the human operation of machines, it is imperative for the Home Team to go one step further: Taking citizens’ needs into consideration. “We need the citizens, whom we are aiming to protect, to accept the technology serving them and use it,” said Dr Lee.
Dr Lee shared examples of such technologies being currently developed on. A prototype for an automated car clearance system, at the land checkpoints, is being trialled with passenger cars coming through. The user-friendliness and experiences of those going through the checkpoints by car are being assessed as well. An exoskeleton is also being developed for SCDF’s firefighters. A key consideration of this technology is that while it is primarily meant to protect the firefighters wearing it during their line of duty, the exoskeleton should also not inadvertently cause injuries to those whom the firefighters are trying to save.
Regarding the possibility of pushback from citizens on the introduction of new technologies, Dr Lee pointed out that where practical, feedback is collected from the public. For example, when new technologies are being tested at checkpoints, the public trying them out are also interviewed and asked for their feedback on the technologies.
MHA labs countering bioterrorism and virus outbreaks with science and technology
The threats of bioterrorism and virus outbreaks are becoming ever real, such as in the case of the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, and countries are stepping up efforts to protect their citizens.
The Home Team CBRNE network of laboratories are located at Singapore’s land and sea checkpoints, to detect and analyse suspicious incoming items into Singapore. The laboratories, therefore, need to be able to detect any items that contain hazardous materials and also be on the lookout for major bioterrorism agents, such as anthrax.
Dr Lee noted that the CBRNE laboratories are well-equipped to receive and process such suspicious items and ensure that any hazardous substances could be detected and contained. He also said that it is critical that the staff receiving these samples are well protected from such hazardous materials. Laboratory officers use gloves with filters, such as chemical filters or hyper filters, as well as filters which have a protective capability against radiation.
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The Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) recently unveiled the pivotal insights gleaned from its inaugural Singapore Cybersecurity Health Report 2023. Conducted between May and August of the previous year, the survey canvassed the opinions of 2,036 organisations spanning various sises and sectors.
The objective was to gauge the landscape of cybersecurity readiness across local entities and inform CSA’s strategic initiatives. The importance of bolstering cybersecurity resilience within these organisations cannot be overstated, as they play a critical role in shaping the digital experiences of Singaporeans through their services and products.
The findings unveiled a mixed landscape: while the majority of organisations demonstrated an awareness of cybersecurity imperatives, there remains substantial room for improvement in adoption rates. On average, organisations reported implementing around 70% of essential cybersecurity measures across various categories. Additionally, a significant proportion, approximately 75%, acknowledged CSA’s cybersecurity certification programmes, Cyber Essentials and Cyber Trust, which serve as national standards for prioritising cybersecurity measures.
Despite these positive indicators, CSA sounded a cautionary note, emphasising the inadequacy of partial adoption. Without the full spectrum of essential measures, organisations remain vulnerable to unnecessary cyber risks. Alarmingly, only a third of organisations had fully implemented at least three of the five categories outlined in Cyber Essentials. This underscores the urgency for comprehensive adoption to fortify cybersecurity posture effectively.
A prevalent challenge cited by organisations hindering full adoption was a lack of knowledge and experience, echoed by 59% of businesses and 56% of non-profits. This is compounded by the rapidly evolving cyber threat landscape, exacerbated by a shortage of skilled cyber professionals. Moreover, a prevailing perception of being unlikely targets of cyber-attacks and resource constraints further impedes progress in bolstering defences.
The consequences of inadequate cybersecurity measures were starkly evident, with over 80% of organisations reporting encountering cybersecurity incidents annually, including prevalent threats like ransomware and social engineering scams. These incidents invariably inflicted a negative business impact, with disruptions, data loss, and reputational damage among the most commonly cited consequences.
While the cost of implementing cyber hygiene measures may seem daunting, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), it pales in comparison to the potential financial ramifications of cyber incidents. CSA emphasises the importance of viewing cybersecurity investment as essential insurance against potentially catastrophic losses.
In response to these challenges, CSA has rolled out a comprehensive suite of initiatives aimed at bolstering organisational cybersecurity resilience. These include cybersecurity resources to raise awareness, tailored health plans delivered by cybersecurity consultants, and certification programmes such as Cyber Essentials and Cyber Trust. Additionally, the collaboration with the Infocomm Media Development Authority has led to the introduction of the Cybersecurity Health Check, providing organisations with a self-assessment tool to benchmark their cyber hygiene and access remedial resources.
Mr. David Koh, Chief Executive of CSA, stressed the imperative for organisations to prioritise cybersecurity and leverage available resources and funding support. Delaying proactive measures until after an incident occurs, he cautioned, would prove significantly more costly in the long run.
The release of the Singapore Cybersecurity Health Report underscores the urgent need for organisations to fortify their cybersecurity posture comprehensively. By embracing a holistic approach to cybersecurity and leveraging available resources and support, organisations can mitigate risks and safeguard against the increasingly sophisticated cyber threats of the digital age.
The Singapore Cybersecurity Health Report 2023 is available at www.csa.gov.sg/cyberhealthreport and the Cybersecurity Health Check can be accessed at https://www.csa.gov.sg/cyberhealthchecktool.
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In a remarkable leap forward in the field of neuroscience, researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati (IIT Guwahati) have introduced a groundbreaking algorithm known as the Unique Brain Network Identification Number (UBNIN). This innovative algorithm is poised to revolutionise the analysis of brain connectivity patterns, offering profound insights into both healthy brain function and neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease (PD).
The human brain, with its intricate network of neural connections, is a marvel of complexity. Each individual possesses a unique pattern of brain connectivity, akin to a fingerprint of the mind. Recognising the significance of these individualised brain networks, the researchers at IIT Guwahati set out to develop a method capable of decoding and quantifying these intricate patterns.
The UBNIN algorithm represents a paradigm shift in how we understand and analyse brain connectivity. Drawing upon data from structural MRI scans, the algorithm constructs a network model of the brain, with each region of the brain represented as a node. These nodes are interconnected by edges, reflecting the strength of connectivity between different brain regions.
What sets UBNIN apart is its ability to distil this complex network into a single numerical identifier. This unique identifier, akin to a digital signature for the brain, encapsulates the individualised connectivity patterns of each person. By quantifying these patterns into numerical values, UBNIN offers a powerful tool for understanding the structural organisation of the brain.
The implications of UBNIN are far-reaching. One potential application lies in the realm of brainprinting, where individual brain signatures could be used for identification purposes. Much like a fingerprint uniquely identifies an individual, UBNIN could serve as a digital identifier for the brain, with applications in personalised medicine, biometrics, and cognitive neuroscience.
Moreover, UBNIN holds promise as a biomarker for neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterised by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the brain. Early detection of Parkinson’s is crucial for initiating timely interventions and improving patient outcomes. By analysing changes in UBNIN values over time, researchers may be able to identify subtle alterations in brain connectivity associated with the onset and progression of Parkinson’s disease.
To validate the utility of UBNIN as a biomarker for Parkinson’s disease, researchers conducted a comprehensive study involving structural MRI scans from both PD patients and healthy individuals. The results were promising, with UBNIN values exhibiting distinct patterns in PD patients compared to healthy controls. This suggests that UBNIN has the potential to serve as a sensitive and specific biomarker for Parkinson’s disease, offering new avenues for early diagnosis and disease monitoring.
Furthermore, the researchers explored the impact of age on brain connectivity patterns. Aging is associated with changes in brain structure and function, which may contribute to the development of neurological disorders. By analysing structural MRI data from individuals across different age groups, the researchers found that brain connectivity patterns indeed change with age. Specifically, they observed a decrease in the clustering coefficient—a measure of network connectivity—with increasing age. These findings provide valuable insights into the dynamic nature of brain plasticity and aging.
Dr. Cota Navin Gupta, Assistant Professor at the Neural Engineering Lab, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, IIT Guwahati, commented on the significance of these findings. “UBNIN offers a unique window into the structural organisation of the brain,” he remarked. “By quantifying individualised brain connectivity patterns, UBNIN has the potential to transform our understanding of brain function and dysfunction.”
Looking ahead, the researchers envision further applications of UBNIN in diverse fields, ranging from personalised medicine to cognitive neuroscience. By harnessing the power of UBNIN, researchers may unlock the mysteries of the human brain, paving the way for new insights into neurological disorders and brain health.
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Bushfires represent one of the most formidable challenges faced by firefighters worldwide. With their unpredictable behaviour and rapid spread, combating these blazes demands innovative solutions to ensure the safety of both responders and communities at risk. In a groundbreaking initiative, researchers are harnessing the power of robotics to revolutionise bushfire response, paving the way for more effective firefighting strategies and enhanced situational awareness.
At the heart of this endeavour lies the Silvanus Project, an ambitious international collaboration aimed at developing ground robots capable of navigating fire fronts and gathering crucial data in real-time. Led by researchers from Data61’s Queensland Centre for Advanced Technologies, this project represents a pioneering effort to address the inherent dangers associated with traditional firefighting methods.
Bushfires, fueled by factors such as vegetation density and weather conditions, can escalate rapidly, outpacing conventional firefighting techniques. To stay ahead of the inferno, firefighters require accurate information about fire location, direction of spread, and potential hazards. However, obtaining such data often entails placing personnel in hazardous environments, risking their safety in the process.
Drones have emerged as a promising tool for aerial reconnaissance, offering valuable insights into fire behaviour from above. However, their effectiveness is limited by factors such as smoke interference, high winds, and restricted flight times. Recognising these limitations, researchers turned their focus to ground-based solutions, envisioning robots capable of operating in the most challenging of conditions.
The ground robots developed as part of the Silvanus Project are equipped with advanced sensors and navigation systems, allowing them to traverse rugged terrain and navigate through smoke and debris. Some robots are designed to move on legs, mimicking the mobility of insects, while others utilise tracks for increased stability and manoeuvrability. These robots venture into the heart of the fire, gathering critical data such as fire intensity, fuel availability, and environmental conditions.
During a demonstration conducted for fire service representatives and researchers, the capabilities of these ground robots were showcased, highlighting their potential to transform firefighting operations. With the ability to transmit data in real-time to a cloud-based platform, these robots provide firefighters with unprecedented situational awareness, enabling more informed decision-making and proactive firefighting strategies.
Senior experimental scientist Tom Lowe emphasises the significance of these ground robots in enhancing firefighter safety and operational effectiveness. By deploying robots into areas deemed too hazardous for human intervention, firefighters can access vital information without exposing themselves to unnecessary risks. Furthermore, the integration of remote sensing technologies allows robots to assess vegetation density and predict fuel availability, further aiding in fire suppression efforts.
While the technology is still in the developmental stage, researchers are optimistic about its potential impact on future firefighting practices. Navinda Kottege, Cyber-Physical Systems Research Director, underscores the life-saving potential of ground robots, particularly in high-risk firefighting scenarios where human intervention may be impractical or unsafe.
The Silvanus Project represents a collaborative effort involving researchers from across Europe, Australia, Indonesia, and Brazil, united in their mission to develop innovative solutions for forest management and fire prevention. By harnessing the power of robotics and cutting-edge technologies, this initiative aims to bolster preparedness and response capabilities, ultimately saving lives and protecting communities from the devastating impact of bushfires.
As ground robots continue to evolve and mature, fueled by ongoing research and international collaboration, the vision of leveraging technology to mitigate the impact of bushfires grows ever closer to reality. With each technological advancement, firefighters gain new tools and capabilities to confront one of nature’s most formidable adversaries, ensuring a safer and more resilient future for all.
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Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands at the forefront of technological innovation, promising transformative solutions to complex challenges across various domains. Recognising its potential to revolutionise industries and improve societal well-being, the National University of Singapore (NUS) has inaugurated the NUS AI Institute (NAII). Led by Professor Mohan Kankanhalli, NAII aims to accelerate AI research and its practical applications, fostering collaboration, innovation, and societal impact.
In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, AI has emerged as a powerful tool with the capacity to reshape diverse sectors, ranging from healthcare to finance, education, logistics, and beyond. The establishment of NAII underscores NUS’s commitment to harnessing AI for the greater good, addressing critical issues facing Singapore and the global community.
At the core of NAII’s mission is the advancement of fundamental AI research, aimed at pushing the boundaries of AI capabilities and exploring novel applications across various domains. Through foundational research initiatives, scientists at NAII will tackle complex AI problems, spanning hardware and software systems, AI theory, responsible AI, reasoning AI, and resource-efficient AI. By delving into these areas, the institute seeks to develop cutting-edge AI technologies that address real-world challenges and drive innovation.
Moreover, NAII will prioritise research into the ethical and societal implications of AI, aiming to develop robust governance frameworks that ensure responsible AI development and deployment. This includes examining issues related to transparency, accountability, and ethical decision-making in AI systems. By fostering dialogue and research on AI ethics and governance, NAII aims to guide the responsible use of AI technology and mitigate potential risks.
In addition to foundational research, NAII will spearhead applied research initiatives, focusing on developing AI-driven solutions for specific application domains. Collaborating with experts from diverse fields, including healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, finance, urban sustainability, and education, the institute will tackle pressing challenges and explore opportunities for AI-driven innovation. From optimising supply chains to improving healthcare outcomes and enhancing urban infrastructure, NAII’s applied research efforts aim to deliver tangible benefits to society.
Furthermore, NAII will serve as a hub for AI talent development, providing comprehensive education and training programs for students, professionals, and policymakers. By offering hands-on learning experiences and internships, the institute seeks to nurture the next generation of AI leaders and entrepreneurs, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to drive innovation in AI.
To support its research and educational endeavours, NUS has allocated significant resources to NAII, including external research grants and institutional funding. Moreover, the institute will collaborate closely with government agencies and industry partners to amplify its impact and drive innovation. Strategic partnerships with leading companies such as IBM and Google Cloud will enable NAII to leverage industry expertise and resources, accelerating the translation of research outcomes into real-world applications.
In alignment with Singapore’s Research, Innovation, and Enterprise (RIE) strategy, NAII aims to contribute to the nation’s AI ecosystem by fostering collaboration, innovation, and talent development. By positioning NUS as a global leader in AI research and application, the institute seeks to drive positive societal change and economic growth.
The establishment of NAII represents a significant milestone in NUS’s journey towards harnessing the power of AI for societal benefit. Through cutting-edge research, education, and collaboration, the institute aims to unlock the full potential of AI and pave the way for a more innovative, sustainable, and inclusive future. With its interdisciplinary approach and commitment to excellence, NAII is poised to make a lasting impact on Singapore and the global AI landscape.
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In a significant stride towards enhancing cybersecurity in the realm of consumer Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices, the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) and the Connectivity Standards Alliance (Alliance) recently signed a Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA). This milestone agreement underscores a shared commitment to bolstering international cooperation and coordination in cybersecurity, with a specific focus on advancing the security standards of consumer IoT devices.
The MRA, signed by Mr Chua Kuan Seah, Deputy Chief Executive of CSA, and Mr Tobin Richardson, President & Chief Executive Officer of the Connectivity Standards Alliance, facilitates the mutual recognition of cybersecurity labels for consumer IoT devices.
By harmonising standards and procedures, the arrangement aims to reduce duplication in testing and costs for manufacturers, thereby fostering a more robust cybersecurity environment for consumer IoT devices globally.
Central to the MRA is the exchange and alignment of information related to relevant standards, requirements, and practices concerning the cybersecurity labeling of consumer IoT. This collaboration lays the groundwork for future developments in cybersecurity certification and labeling schemes, ensuring that evolving threats and technological advancements are adequately addressed.
Mr Chua Kuan Seah emphasised the significance of achieving global alignment for consumer IoT cybersecurity, citing it as a key objective since the launch of Singapore’s Cybersecurity Labelling Scheme in 2020. The agreement with the Alliance represents a significant step forward in this endeavor, bringing Singapore closer to its goal of establishing internationally recognised cybersecurity standards for IoT devices.
By promoting Cybersecurity-by-Design and Cybersecurity-by-Default principles, the MRA incentivises manufacturers to embed robust security measures into their IoT devices, ultimately enhancing cybersecurity for consumers worldwide.
The Connectivity Standards Alliance, formerly known as the Zigbee Alliance, is a consortium of companies devoted to developing standards envisioning seamless interaction to enhance daily experiences. With a membership of over 500 companies, the alliance collaboratively creates application profiles for interoperable products, thereby advancing IoT connectivity and fostering innovation in the industry.
Singapore remains deeply committed to bolstering cybersecurity measures both domestically and internationally. At the national level, initiatives are aimed at fortifying the nation’s digital defences, safeguarding critical infrastructure and protecting citizens and businesses from cyber threats. These efforts include the implementation of robust cybersecurity frameworks, regular cybersecurity exercises and drills, and the promotion of cybersecurity awareness among the populace.
The Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding Singapore’s cyberspace to bolster national security, support the digital economy, and protect the digital way of life. Through initiatives like the Singapore Cyber Emergency Response Team (SingCERT), CSA swiftly responds to cybersecurity incidents, ensuring the detection, resolution, and prevention of cyber threats.
As part of the Prime Minister’s Office and managed by the Ministry of Communications and Information, CSA oversees national cybersecurity functions, collaborates with sector leads to protect critical information infrastructure, and engages stakeholders to raise cybersecurity awareness.
OpenGov Asia reported that Singapore, represented by CSA, collaborates closely with ASEAN Member States (AMS) to establish the ASEAN Regional Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT), facilitating information-sharing and enhancing cybersecurity incident response coordination across the region.
Despite a significant increase in scam cases by nearly 50% to 50,376 in 2023 from 33,669 in 2022, proactive cybersecurity measures have led to a positive outcome. These positive trends are attributed to collaborative efforts among various agencies and stakeholders, including the Singapore Police Force, Infocomm Media Development Authority, Cyber Security Agency of Singapore, Smart Nation Group, Monetary Authority of Singapore, and private sector partners.
Singapore’s proactive efforts, including the proposal to host and fund the ASEAN Regional CERT’s physical activities, demonstrate its commitment to fostering regional cooperation and safeguarding critical information infrastructure on a transnational scale.
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In a landmark collaboration aimed at advancing healthcare through digital innovation, technology, and artificial intelligence (AI), the City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) and the Shenzhen Hospital of Southern Medical University (SMU) have forged a strategic cooperation framework agreement. Signed on March 20th, 2024, this agreement signifies a pivotal step towards fostering joint scientific research, technology transformation, and talent cultivation, with a particular emphasis on cutting-edge fields such as digital medicine, computer science, and biomedical engineering.
The signing ceremony, held at CityUHK and attended by esteemed dignitaries including Professor Liu Shuwen, Vice-President of SMU, and Professor Freddy Boey, President of CityUHK, underscored the commitment of both institutions to collaborative innovation in healthcare. President Boey expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the potential for joint development and cooperation in life sciences and technological advancements.
He emphasised the establishment of the Institute of Digital Medicine at CityUHK as a key initiative that will leverage clinical resources from Shenzhen Hospital of SMU to drive research and projects, particularly in areas such as cell therapy and gene therapy.
Professor Liu echoed President Boey’s sentiments, noting CityUHK’s distinguished reputation and expertise across various research domains. He underscored the significance of the collaboration in deepening cooperation between the affiliated hospital of SMU and a leading university in Hong Kong. By pooling resources and expertise, the partnership aims to advance medical services in Hong Kong, Macao, Shenzhen, and beyond. Through joint efforts, both institutions aspire to provide international standard medical services, enhancing healthcare outcomes and fostering academic excellence in the region.
The strategic cooperation framework extends beyond research collaboration to encompass platform and resource sharing, joint academic programs, and the promotion of scientific research initiatives. These efforts are geared towards enhancing healthcare delivery, facilitating knowledge exchange, and driving innovation in medical practice. By leveraging digital health technologies and AI-driven solutions, the collaboration seeks to revolutionise healthcare delivery, improve patient outcomes, and address the evolving challenges of modern medicine.
Furthermore, the agreement aims to promote internationalisation and cooperation between Shenzhen and Hong Kong, aligning with broader efforts to strengthen ties and foster innovation in the Greater Bay Area. Through joint initiatives, such as the establishment of science and technological innovation platforms at the provincial and municipal levels, the collaboration aims to create synergies and opportunities for cross-border collaboration. By harnessing the collective strengths of both institutions, the partnership aims to position Shenzhen and Hong Kong as hubs for scientific research, technological innovation, and healthcare excellence.
In addition to fostering academic collaboration, the partnership emphasises practical outcomes and real-world impact. Through technology transfer and collaborative research projects, both CityUHK and Shenzhen Hospital of SMU seek to translate scientific discoveries into tangible solutions that benefit patients and communities. The agreement also facilitates academic exchanges, enabling researchers and healthcare professionals to share knowledge, expertise, and best practices.
Overall, the strategic cooperation framework agreement between CityUHK and Shenzhen Hospital of SMU represents a significant milestone in advancing healthcare innovation in the Greater Bay Area and beyond. By harnessing digital health, technology, and AI-driven solutions, the collaboration aims to address the complex challenges facing modern healthcare and pave the way for a more sustainable, resilient, and patient-centric healthcare system.
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In a significant advancement in health technology, scientists at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore), have unveiled a revolutionary device capable of rapidly isolating blood plasma with unparalleled precision. Named ExoArc, this coin-sized chip offers a transformative alternative to the cumbersome and time-consuming multi-step centrifugation process currently used in diagnostics and precision medicine.
ExoArc’s innovation lies in its ability to directly isolate blood plasma from a tube of blood in just 30 minutes, eliminating the need for labour-intensive centrifugation. By leveraging unique flow phenomena in tiny channels within the chip, ExoArc achieves high plasma purity, removing over 99.9% of blood cells and platelets precisely and gently.
This breakthrough technology accelerates the clinical analysis of cell-free DNA, RNA molecules, and extracellular vesicles, which are vital for screening biomarkers indicative of various cancers and diseases.
Traditionally, blood plasma isolation has relied solely on centrifugation, a method prone to residual cell contamination and time-sensitive processing constraints. Even after multiple centrifugation rounds, lingering biological cells can compromise the accuracy of diagnostic tests, prolonging waiting times for results and exacerbating patient anxiety.
ExoArc’s streamlined process significantly reduces contamination risks, enabling quicker and more precise diagnoses, particularly crucial in cancer treatment and disease management.
To validate ExoArc’s efficacy, a portable prototype device was developed in collaboration with clinician-scientists from the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS), Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH), and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR). Clinical validation demonstrated ExoArc’s ability to diagnose non-small cell lung cancer with a sensitivity of 90%, highlighting its potential for real-world applications.
Furthermore, ExoArc’s versatility extends beyond cancer diagnostics, as demonstrated in studies involving microRNA analysis in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. By identifying distinct microRNA profiles, ExoArc holds promise in identifying disease-related biomarkers and driving precision medicine initiatives, offering tailored treatments and improving patient outcomes.
In contrast to conventional centrifugation methods, ExoArc’s compact size and scalability present a transformative approach to blood plasma isolation. Its one-step process reduces processing time and operator variability, paving the way for automated and standardised diagnostic procedures. Moreover, ExoArc’s potential for scaling up through multiple channels ensures faster and more consistent plasma isolation, with future automation promising further efficiency gains and cost reductions.
Supported by a Proof-of-Concept and Proof-of-Value grant from the NTUitive Gap Fund, ExoArc epitomises NTU’s commitment to translating research into practical innovations with societal impact. With contributions from esteemed institutions such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of Texas Medical Branch (Galveston), ExoArc’s development underscores collaborative efforts in advancing healthcare technology.
ExoArc represents a significant leap forward in health technology, offering a paradigm shift in blood plasma isolation for diagnostics and precision medicine. As ExoArc continues to evolve, its potential to enhance patient care and drive medical advancements holds promise for a healthier future globally.
NTU Singapore has positioned itself at the vanguard of deploying cutting-edge technology within the healthcare sector, striving relentlessly to pioneer advancements that not only enhance patient outcomes but also revolutionise the overall healthcare experience.
OpenGov Asia reported that a team of researchers from NTU Singapore developed WellFeet, a mobile application designed to provide comprehensive support for individuals living with diabetes. WellFeet educates patients and caregivers about the disease while assisting them in monitoring medication adherence, physical activity, and dietary habits, addressing the myriad challenges associated with diabetes management.
WellFeet offers tech-enabled support for individuals with diabetes and their caregivers, serving as a vital source of empowerment and assistance. As Singapore tackles its diabetes epidemic, initiatives like WellFeet pave the way for transformative healthcare solutions with the potential to change lives.