Computer scientists in the Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture have designed an AI model that improves 3-D printing that could be applied to the creation of artificial organs, among other uses.

There’s an AI tool that analyzes hundreds of hair samples in seconds, and another deep learning model that could have a major impact in improving accuracy and speed in diagnosing signs of disease in human and animal tissue.

“This AI-based deep learning program was very, very accurate at looking at these tissues,” said Michael Skinner, a professor in WSU’s School of Biological Sciences. “It could revolutionize this type of medicine for both animals and humans.”

WSU, a land-grant university whose mission is service, is also investigating the role AI could play in improving health equity and outreach.

One project, for example, used AI to generate reminder messages for healthcare appointments at a rural medical clinic. Another project at the same clinic will provide patients who have type 2 diabetes with an app to help manage their condition.

But university scientists, mindful that technology can have lopsided benefits, are integrating human questions about privacy, access and resources into their research, too.

Said Anna Zamora-Kapoor, an associate professor in the departments of Sociology and Medical Education and Clinical Sciences, “There is a risk that AI exacerbates inequities, with a segment of the populations able to use AI to their advantage and the advantage of their families, while others are left behind.”