This study investigates the correlation between Google Trends data for COVID-19 symptoms and the actual number of COVID-19 cases in Saudi Arabia between March and October 2020. The researchers found that searches for "cough" and "sore throat" were most frequent, while "loss of smell", "loss of taste", and "diarrhea" showed the highest correlation with confirmed cases. The study concludes that Google searches can serve as a supplementary surveillance tool for monitoring the spread of COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: The research demonstrates the potential of using readily available digital data to augment traditional surveillance methods for public health monitoring in the region.
KAUST is offering access to its Shaheen II supercomputer and other computing resources for COVID-19 research projects by researchers across the Kingdom. Researchers can apply for computing allocations by submitting a proposal to [email protected]. The resources available include Shaheen II, the Ibex cluster, and support from KSL staff scientists. Why it matters: This initiative will accelerate COVID-19 research in Saudi Arabia by providing access to advanced computing infrastructure and expertise.
KAUST and the King Salman Center for Disability Research (KSCDR) have signed an MoU to collaborate on the diagnosis, management, and treatment of disabilities affecting Saudi citizens and residents. The partnership will focus on neurodevelopmental conditions, learning disabilities, visual impairments, speech disorders, and mobility impairments. KAUST's Center of Excellence for Smart Health, launched on July 1, will be a key component, leveraging its supercomputing resources and genome sequencing capabilities. Why it matters: This partnership aims to address the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and disabilities in Saudi Arabia, aligning with national research priorities and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.
The Research Products Development Company (RPDC) signed an agreement with The Saudi Vaccine and Biomanufacturing Center (SVBC) to establish a research and industrial center in Saudi Arabia for vaccine and biopharmaceutical development. Supported by KACST and hosted by KAUST, the SVBC will provide a state-of-the-art facility and a training platform. Cooperation agreements were also signed with GE for equipment supply and with Fujifilm Dayosent Biotechnology for MERS-CoV treatment development. Why it matters: This initiative aims to localize vaccine and advanced treatment industries in Saudi Arabia, create technical jobs, and reduce reliance on imports in line with Vision 2030.
Construction has begun on a 30 million square foot data center in Saudi Arabia for use by the Saudi government. The project was announced by the Saudi Ministry of Investment. No details were provided regarding the location, cost, or timeline for the build. Why it matters: This investment signals the Kingdom's intent to develop significant digital infrastructure to support its Vision 2030 goals and emerging AI sector.
The Symposium on Data Mining and Applications (SDMA 2014) was organized by MEGDAM to foster collaboration among data mining and machine learning researchers in Saudi Arabia, GCC countries, and the Middle East. The symposium covered areas such as statistics, computational intelligence, pattern recognition, databases, Big Data Mining and visualization. Acceptance was based on originality, significance and quality of contribution.
KAUST hosted a Global IT Summit. The summit featured speakers like Khaled Biyari, group CEO at the Saudi Telecom Company. Interviews from the summit are available on KAUST's official YouTube channel. Why it matters: The summit likely served as a forum for discussing IT trends and developments relevant to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.