Cumberlands students, grads perform research in cloud computing

Dr. Abdul Sajid Mohammed, Nasmin Jiwani, and Anuteja Reddy Neravetla aren’t strangers. 

For one thing, they’ve worked on three separate research articles together exploring how cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) can benefit healthcare, specifically regarding early detection of various cancers. (And Jiwani and Dr. Mohammed have worked on yet another article together exploring how cloud computing impacts the quality of service for wireless networks.)

They have something else in common as well: they’re all either graduates of or students at University of the Cumberlands.

Dr. Mohammed completed his PhD in information technology at Cumberlands, and both Jiwani and Neravetla are currently pursuing their PhDs in IT at the institution. All are making their university proud by utilizing their expertise to advance technological understanding for the common good.

Combining their skills with those of other qualified researchers, the three have researched AI-based breast cancer detection models, concluding that, though there are currently limitations to using this approach, overall, “machine learning algorithms such as logistic regression and support vector machines outperform [traditional statistical] methods in terms of accuracy and other metrics.” They also spent time researching an improved lung cancer prediction algorithm, discovering that “by combining the energy of GANs with the capability to research scientific snapshots, this algorithm can appropriately expect the presence of lung cancers,” which “greatly aids early detection and allows faster intervention and treatment” for the patients. Along similar lines, the researchers helped write an article that dove into a smart deep learning based model for early detection and diagnosis of melanoma.

Dr. Mohammed mentioned that his education at Cumberlands has been “instrumental” in his success, “providing me with the knowledge and skills that continue to drive my research and professional endeavors.” For instance, his class on big data analytics strengthened his skills in analyzing large datasets and developing predictive models, and the training he received in his class on advanced research methods has been “essential for conducting interdisciplinary research and ensuring the rigor and integrity” of his studies.

Jiwani noted that her education Cumberlands has provided her with “the tools necessary to approach complex problems methodically and analytically,” among other benefits. She enjoys doing research. As she explained, “These fields are dynamic and constantly evolving. The intersection of technology and healthcare in particular presents opportunities to make a tangible impact on people's lives. Through research, I can explore innovative solutions to real-world problems, such as improving healthcare delivery, reducing mortality rates, and enhancing patient outcomes. The challenge of finding new insights, coupled with the potential to contribute to meaningful advancements, is what drives my passion for research.”

Neravetla agreed. She said, “I enjoy researching IT, healthcare, and other industries because it is like uncovering hidden connections and patterns that shape our world. Research is a way to explore the unknown, solve problems, and empower others with knowledge. It is about curiosity, continuous learning, and the thrill of finding answers that can make a difference.”

She called her Cumberlands education thus far “invaluable in performing research,” giving her the chance to hone skills in problem solving, critical thinking, and methodical research.

Dr. Mohammed, Jiwani, and Neravetla aren’t the only Cumberlands graduates and students making waves in the world of information technology, healthcare, and research. Read more stories of how Cumberlands students and alumni are impacting these industries at www.ucumberlands.edu/stories.