Resource Capacity Research Articles

Predictive Modeling of Chemical Waste Generation in Healthcare Facilities: Enhancing Waste Management Strategies

The escalating generation of chemical waste in healthcare facilities is a pressing concern, particularly during rapidly spreading epidemics. This study proposes a system dynamics model to predict hospital chemical-waste generation rates. The model incorporates various variables, such as patient arrival and departure rates, to provide accurate estimations of waste generation. A case study conducted at a hospital validates and demonstrates the proposed model's practical application. The findings reveal that specific departments, such as Main Operations, Obstetrics, and Catheter, significantly influence healthcare chemical-waste generation rates. Additionally, the Tissue Department plays a substantial role. This research has two important implications. Firstly, it offers valuable insights into the complex factors affecting waste generation in healthcare facilities, identifying the departments that contribute most to the problem. Secondly, it provides waste management departments with a insights for capacity planning, scheduling, and resource allocation. Hospitals can enhance their waste management practices, leading to improved environmental sustainability and better public health outcomes. This study's ability to anticipate chemical waste generation and drive the development of comprehensive and long-term waste management programs is highlighted by its identification of the most significant departments in generating chemical waste. This study blends predictive intelligence with pragmatic insights, emerging as a crucial instrument for tackling the severe difficulties posed by the rising flow of chemical waste. It ultimately protects both individual well-being and the balance of the ecosystem. Keywords: system dynamics, chemical waste, healthcare facilities

Satellite Edge Computing for Mobile Multimedia Communications: A Multi-agent Federated Reinforcement Learning Approach

The rapid expansion of satellite mega-constellations has highlighted the potential of satellite edge computing as a promising solution for mobile multimedia communications. While reinforcement learning has been explored in satellite communication systems, significant challenges remain, including high latency and limited resources. This study addresses these challenges by focusing on the joint optimization of communication, computing, and caching resources in satellite edge computing to support mobile multimedia applications. A mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) problem is formulated with the objective of minimizing the total delay experienced by mobile users, subject to multidimensional resource capacity constraints, which is NP-hard and computationally intractable to solve in polynomial time. To address this complexity, we propose a multi-agent federated reinforcement learning (MAFRL) approach as an efficient solution. In this framework, each satellite operates as an autonomous learning agent equipped with an actor-critic network structure. The proposed MAFRL method demonstrates superior performance, achieving lower delays compared to all baseline approaches. It effectively optimizes delay-sensitive mobile multimedia communications by minimizing total delay and improving task offloading ratios. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to introduce a MAFRL-based approach for resource allocation in satellite edge computing, marking a significant contribution to the field.

Factors Influencing the Optimization of Asset Management and Reporting at the Regional Financial and Asset Management Agency of Mahakam Ulu Regency

This study aims to analyze the factors that influence the management and reporting of regional assets at the Regional Finance and Asset Management Agency (BPKAD) of Mahakam Ulu Regency, and to formulate strategies to optimize asset management and reporting in the region. The approach used in this study is post-positivism, which allows researchers to view asset management not only technically, but also in the social, political, and ideological contexts that influence public policy. Using qualitative methods, this study explores the perceptions and experiences of stakeholders involved in asset management, through in-depth interviews with key informants, including the Head of BPKAD and other related parties. The results of the study indicate that there are several factors that influence the effectiveness of asset management and reporting, including limited human resources, technological infrastructure problems, lack of coordination between SKPDs, and support from regional leaders. This study also formulates several strategies to overcome these obstacles, namely increasing human resource capacity through ongoing training, improving technological infrastructure, especially to improve internet access in remote areas, strengthening regulations and monitoring, and increasing coordination between SKPDs. With these strategies, it is hoped that asset management and reporting in Mahakam Ulu Regency can run more effectively, transparently, and accountably. This research provides an important contribution to regional asset management policy and can be a reference for further research in the field of regional governance.

Exploring the Sustainability Impact of Green Bonds on Ecological and Resource Capacities

Exploring the Sustainability Impact of Green Bonds on Ecological and Resource Capacities

Evaluation of China’s rural resource and environmental carrying capacity based on the ZI–CI–GI framework

Evaluation of China’s rural resource and environmental carrying capacity based on the ZI–CI–GI framework

Dimensioning Space-Air-Ground Integrated Networks for In-Flight 6G Slice Orchestration

In this study, we present an in-depth analysis of communication services for commercial airline passengers, focusing on the challenges posed by increasing internet traffic demand. We explore the integration of satellite, airborne, and terrestrial networks, emphasizing the roles of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, High-Altitude Platform Station (HAPS), and Terrestrial Aviation Network (TAN)-based services. Our contribution includes a theoretical model for optimizing resource allocation and capacity planning in non-terrestrial wireless networks, using a bipartite graph approach and linear programming techniques. The model shows adaptability and efficiency, providing key insights through numerical analysis. Leveraging a detailed air traffic dataset, a machine learning-based aggregation method, and real-world network parameters, our research addresses current challenges, such as scalable network capacity dimensioning in high-density airspaces and meeting the demand for quality of service by robust resource provisioning, and advances the design of communication networks for Space–Air–Ground Integrated Network (SAGIN). Numerical results from European airspace suggest that complementing TAN and LEO satellite networks with HAPS-based services will be essential as airline passengers adopt ground-level internet usage patterns.

Developing a comprehensive framework for evaluating public health emergency management program implementation: A scoping review.

Public health emergencies and disasters highlight gaps in health systems' emergency preparedness capabilities. Developing robust public health emergency management (PHEM) programs is crucial yet challenging. Existing assessment tools are limited in scope or lack standardized measurement. The aim of this study was to identify core domains of PHEM implementation status and key influencing factors. A scoping review. A literature review and focused desk review were conducted. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar to retrieve relevant studies that explored existing PHEM frameworks, core components, factors influencing implementation, and evaluation tools presented in empirical studies. Additionally, a systematic search of authoritative organizational websites was performed to identify relevant guidelines and frameworks. Subject matter experts consolidated the findings from these diverse data sources through a consultative desk review process. Out of 7232 studies identified, 50 studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in this review. Four core domains of PHEM implementation status were identified: overall implementation level; individual factors (capacity building, resources, engagement, and attitudes); organizational factors (information sharing, community involvement, planning, responsibilities, resources, leadership, monitoring/evaluation, coordination, infrastructure, and policies); and overarching factors (workforce, funding, governance, and collaboration. Nineteen key influencing factors emerged, including elements such as leadership, resource allocation, and stakeholder engagement. A conceptual framework was developed that incorporates these thematic domains from major health agencies and determinants identified through qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research. This review developed a preliminary evaluation framework for PHEM programs based on a comprehensive synthesis of global evidence. The framework lays the groundwork for further validation and application to advance standardized assessments of PHEM capabilities across diverse contexts, ultimately aiming to strengthen health system resilience against emergencies.

Development of School Library Information System in Remote Areas in Indonesia: Analysis of Technology Readiness and Its Impact

This study explores the technological readiness and impact of library information system development in remote schools in Indonesia. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, this study assesses the condition of technological infrastructure, human resource capacity, and challenges faced in implementing library information systems. The results show that although many schools in remote areas face infrastructure limitations, such as limited internet access and minimal hardware availability, there is significant potential for library information system adoption, especially if supported by adequate training and infrastructure development. The impact of implementing this system has been proven to be significant in improving information accessibility and student literacy quality, although there are still obstacles that need to be overcome to achieve optimal implementation.

Use of lecanemab and donanemab in the Canadian healthcare system: Evidence, challenges, and areas for future research.

Lecanemab and donanemab are monoclonal antibody therapies that remove amyloid-beta from the brain. They are the first therapies that alter a fundamental mechanism, amyloid-beta deposition, in Alzheimer disease (AD). To inform Canadian decisions on approval and use of these drugs, the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging commissioned Work Groups to review evidence on the efficacy and safety of these new therapies, as well as their projected impacts on Canadian dementia systems of care. We included persons with lived experience with Alzheimer disease in the discussion about the benefits and harms. Our review of the trial publications found high quality evidence of statistically significant group differences, but also recognized that there are mixed views on the clinical relevance of the observed differences and the value of therapy for individual patients. The drugs are intended for persons with early AD, at a stage of mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia. If patients are treated, then confirmation of AD by positron emission tomography or cerebrospinal fluid analysis and monitoring for risk of amyloid-related imaging abnormalities was recommended, as done in the clinical trials, although it would strain Canadian resource capacity. More data are needed to determine the size of the potentially eligible treatment population in Canada.

Challenges in Electrical Infrastructure Permitting: A Case Study of Substation Development in South Sumatra

Substation development plays a crucial role in supporting the enhancement of the electricity sector in Indonesia. However, the permitting process for such infrastructure development still faces several challenges. This research aims to analyze the determinant factors causing delays in permitting the Muara Enim 500 kV EHV Substation development in South Sumatra. Employing a juridical-empirical approach and a case study method, this research examines the applicable permitting regulations, namely Law Number 30 of 2009 and its implementing regulations. The results indicate that the permitting delays were caused by weak coordination among involved stakeholders, adjustments to four changes in permitting regulations during the project, and non-regulatory factors such as land acquisition and community engagement. To improve the permitting system, four strategic pillars are recommended: strengthening the regulatory framework through harmonization and simplification, accelerating the digitalization of the permitting process, enhancing human resource capacity, and strengthening cross-sectoral coordination complemented by active community engagement. Implementing this comprehensive strategy is expected to expedite substation development to support the sustainable growth and improvement of the electricity sector.

Reducing transmission expansion by co-optimizing sizing of wind, solar, storage and grid connection capacity

Abstract Expanding transmission capacity is likely a bottleneck that will restrict variable renewable energy (VRE) deployment required to achieve ambitious emission reduction goals. Interconnection and inter-zonal transmission buildout may be displaced by the optimal sizing of VRE to grid connection capacity and by the co-location of VRE and battery resources behind interconnection. However, neither of these capabilities is commonly captured in macro-energy system models. We develop two new functionalities to explore the substitutability of storage for transmission and the optimal capacity and siting decisions of renewable energy and battery resources through 2030 in the Western Interconnection of the United States. Our findings indicate that modeling optimized interconnection and storage co-location better captures the full value of energy storage and its ability to substitute for transmission. Optimizing interconnection capacity and co-location can reduce total grid connection and shorter-distance transmission capacity expansion on the order of 10% at storage penetration equivalent to 2.5-10% of peak system demand. The decline in interconnection capacity corresponds with greater ratios of VRE to grid connection capacity (an average of 1.5-1.6 megawatt (MW) PV:1 MW inverter capacity, 1.2-1.3 MW wind:1 MW interconnection). Co-locating storage with VREs also results in a 9-13% increase in wind capacity, as wind sites tend to require longer and more costly interconnection. Finally, co-located storage exhibits higher value than standalone storage in our model setup (up to 43-45%). Given the coarse representation of transmission networks in our modeling, this outcome likely overstates the real-world importance of storage co-location with VREs. However, it highlights how siting storage in grid-constrained locations can maximize the value of storage and reduce transmission expansion.

Russian Cargo Traffic in New Conditions: Opportunities and Restrictions

The article shows changes that affected cargo operations due to current transformation of the global situation, anti-Russia sanctions and replacement of key economic partners of Russia. The author analyzes accessible data of cargo traffic in home and international lines and explains possible underestimation of certain figures. Restrictions were investigated that hinder the development of some types of traffic, cause losses in cargo operations and shortage of resource capacity, in particular in moving-in and -out. The article shows reasons for impeding further intensive increase in cargo operations. The author studies such restrictions as distance of the route, fuel cost, nature and climatic conditions, the level of road network development, necessity to use transit communication in certain Russian regions, rising rates of utilization duties, high interest rate, risk of trucking companies’ leaving for the green zone, poor experience in using and maintaining Chinese cargo equipment that changed European trucks. The article assessed the dynamics of traffic and prospects of international transit in conditions of further scenario volatility, on the one hand and high adaptive capacity of national economic system to changing conditions and crises, on the other.

Tourism Object Development Pattern in Sungai Raja Village, Jelai District, Sukamara District, Central Kalimantan

Desa Sungai Raja Village, Jelai District, Sukamara Regency, Central Kalimantan, has natural and cultural potential that has the opportunity to be developed into a leading tourist destination. This research aims to formulate a model for developing tourism objects based on sustainable local potential using a quantitative approach through surveys, field observations and structured interviews. The research results show the potential for ecotourism in rivers, mangrove forests and local cultural diversity. However, obstacles such as limited infrastructure, lack of promotion and community participation are the main challenges. The proposed model emphasizes synergy between government, society, and the private sector through increasing human resource capacity, improving infrastructure, and effective promotional strategies. Apart from that, the integration of digital technology for tourism promotion and destination management is also proposed as an innovative step. Training and community empowerment programs in the tourism sector are also part of this model to create professional destination management. It is hoped that this model can increase tourist visits, strengthen the local economy, and preserve the local environment and culture, making Sungai Raja Village a leading destination in Central Kalimantan that contributes to the development of sustainable tourism. Keywords: Development Model, Tourist Attractions, Sungai Raja Village, Sustainable Tourism, Central Kalimantan.

Strategy of Management of Village-Owned Enterprises (Bumdes) Batu Bini, Padang Batung District, Hulu Sungai Selatan Regency

Villages, with all their natural and human potential, play an important role in increasing national income. Therefore, development must be directed at the sustainable use of resources in rural areas. The New Generation BUMDes is part of the process of utilizing existing resources. This study aims to (1) identify the obstacles faced in managing the New Generation BUMDes and (2) formulate a management strategy for the New Generation BUMDes in Batu Bini Village, Padang Batung District. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach, with the research subject being the New Generation BUMDes in Batu Bini Village, South Hulu Sungai Regency. The study results show that: (1) there are still several obstacles in BUMDes management, including budget constraints, insufficient capacity of human resources among managers, and a lack of participation from the community and private sector. (2) The management strategy of the New Generation BUMDes is carried out based on applicable regulations, including the process of institutional formation and the provision of facilities and infrastructure, as well as managing BUMDes with the continued use of the Village Government Budget. The study concludes that the management of the New Generation BUMDes in Batu Bini Village has been carried out in accordance with the applicable regulations. However, challenges such as limited budgets, inadequate human resource capacity, and minimal participation from the community and private sector must be addressed to ensure more effective BUMDes management, ultimately achieving the goals of its establishment.

Service capacity and disability resource integration: A strategic survey of immigrant and refugee-serving agencies in Illinois.

Immigrants and refugees in the United States often face significant barriers in accessing social services, including mental health support, legal assistance, ESL or related education, housing, vocational training, workforce resources, transportation, and citizenship support. This article explores the strengths and challenges of community-based organizations welcoming centers (CBO WC) in Illinois that serve these populations, including people with disabilities, in culturally appropriate and inclusive ways. The Immigrant and Refugee-Led Capacity Development Network of Illinois, based at the University of Illinois Chicago, collaborated with the state's Office of Welcoming Centers to explore the service capacities of 17 CBO grantees. Thirty-three CBO staff members and 13 CBO leaders participated in online surveys designed to identify organizational strengths, assess needs, and explore opportunities to advance their missions. The findings show a range of strengths and abilities to assist immigrant and refugee communities and the limitations they face in addressing critical needs. Implications and future research approaches are discussed.

The Challenges and Potential of Implementing Restorative Justice for Minor Criminal Offenses in Indonesia

Indonesia, as a nation of law, faces challenges in integrating the restorative justice approach into the resolution of minor criminal offenses. This approach is considered more humane as it prioritizes the restoration of harm to victims and the accountability of offenders rather than mere punishment. This study aims to identify the main obstacles in the implementation of restorative justice, particularly in cases of minor criminal offenses, and to provide recommendations for improving its effectiveness. The research method employs a normative approach with an analysis of legal documents and related literature. The results of the study show that although restorative justice has been adopted in several policies, such as Attorney General Regulation Number 15 of 2020 and Police Regulations, its implementation is still hindered by regulatory factors, the capacity of law enforcement, public perception, limited resources, and local cultural dynamics. The conclusion of this study emphasizes the importance of integrated legal policy reform, continuous training for law enforcement, and public education about the benefits of this approach. By overcoming these obstacles, restorative justice has the potential to be an effective and inclusive solution in reforming Indonesia's criminal justice system.

Effectiveness of Decentralisation by Devolution Approaches in Public healthcare services Delivery in Ilala Municipal Council and Geita Town Council, Tanzania

This study investigates the effectiveness of Decentralisation by Devolution (D-by-D) in public healthcare service delivery within Ilala Municipal Council and Geita Town Council, Tanzania. Employing a mixed-methods approach, including quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with local key informants, the research reveals critical insights into how D-by-D frameworks impact healthcare quality and accessibility. Findings indicate that while some approaches, such as project monitoring and budget allocation, are perceived as effective, others—particularly multi-stakeholder involvement, participation, and strategic planning—are regarded as ineffective. The average effectiveness score across both councils suggests a moderate perception of D-by-D functioning, yet significant gaps exist regarding community engagement, resource allocation, and local governance capabilities. Challenges include inadequate funding, personnel shortages, and a lack of transparency, which hinder the realization of Decentralisation’s intended benefits. The study underscores a prevalent sense of skepticism regarding healthcare quality in both councils and highlights the necessity for reforms to better align local health priorities with community needs. To enhance the effectiveness of D-by-D, the research recommends strengthening financial support to Local Government Authorities, enhancing human resource capacity, fostering community participation, and promoting accountability and transparency in healthcare governance. This research contributes to the understanding of local governance in Tanzania and offers essential insights for policymakers aiming to improve healthcare outcomes through decentralized frameworks.

Facility Medicaid Payer Burden and Nonelective Admission for Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia

Chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) is a major public health issue that requires considerable human and physical resources to provide optimal patient care. It is essential to characterize the disease severity and resource needs of patients with CLTI presenting to facilities of varying resource capacities. To investigate the association between facility-level Medicaid payer proportions and the incidence of nonelective admissions among patients admitted for CLTI. In this retrospective multicenter cohort study, 876 026 CLTI-related inpatient admissions at 8769 US facilities from January 1, 1998, through October 31, 2020, were identified in the National Inpatient Sample. Facilities were ranked into quintiles according to increasing Medicaid burden, defined as the annualized proportion of Medicaid patient discharges for all hospitalizations. Inpatient admissions for CLTI were identified using International Classification of Diseases codes for rest pain, foot ulcers, and gangrene. Patients younger than 18 years or older than 100 years were excluded, as were those with missing admission type. Statistical analysis was conducted from January to August 2024. Facility-level Medicaid burden quintiles. Emergency and urgent admissions defined as nonelective admissions. The study included 876 026 CLTI-related admissions (mean [SD] patient age, 68.6 [14.5] years; 54.3% men). Increasing nonelective admission rates were associated with increasing facility Medicaid burden (low Medicaid burden, 59.7%; low-moderate Medicaid burden, 62.2%; moderate Medicaid burden, 63.6%; moderate-high Medicaid burden, 63.6%; and high Medicaid burden, 66.8%; P < .001). This trend persisted across all CLTI-related diagnoses (patients with rest pain: low Medicaid burden, 29.8%; high Medicaid burden, 36.1%; patients with lower-limb ulceration: low Medicaid burden, 63.5%; high Medicaid burden, 71.5%; and patients with gangrene: low Medicaid burden, 61.2%; high Medicaid burden, 67.4%; P < .001). In the adjusted model, odds of nonelective admission for CLTI indications increased progressively among facilities as Medicaid burden increased from low to high (adjusted odds ratio for low-moderate Medicaid burden, 1.05 [95% CI, 1.00-1.11]; P = .06; adjusted odds ratio for high Medicaid burden, 1.44 [95% CI, 1.36-1.52]; P < .001). High Medicaid burden facilities were associated with increased nonelective admissions for CLTI. This highlights an important mismatch: that resource-constrained facilities are at greater odds of seeing more resource-intensive admissions. Facility-level patient cohort characteristics should be considered when planning for resource allocation to achieve equitable patient care.

Time series forecasting of bed occupancy in mental health facilities in India using machine learning

Machine learning models are vital for forecasting and optimizing healthcare parameters, especially in the context of rising mental health issues in India and globally. With increasing demand for mental health services, effective resource management, like bed occupancy forecasting, is crucial to ensure proper patient care and reduce the burden on healthcare facilities. This study applies six machine learning models, namely Support Vector Regression, eXtreme Gradient Boosting, Random Forest, K-Nearest Neighbors, Gradient Boosting, and Decision Tree, to forecast weekly bed occupancy of the second largest mental hospital in India, using data from 2008 to 2024. Accuracy of models were evaluated using Mean Absolute Percentage Error, and Diebold–Mariano test for assessing differences in predictive performance. Further, we forecast the bed occupancy, providing crucial insights for healthcare administrators in capacity planning and resource allocation, supporting data-driven decisions and enhancing the quality of mental health services in India.

Manajemen Lembaga Dakwah FKUB dalam Mewujudkan Moderasi Beragama di Kota Medan

This study examines the management strategies of the Forum Kerukunan Umat Beragama (FKUB) in promoting religious moderation in the multicultural society of Medan City. As a key institution fostering interfaith harmony, FKUB utilizes managerial functions—planning, organizing, implementing, and evaluating—to design and execute programs such as interfaith seminars, conflict mediation, and capacity building for religious leaders. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach, the research explores the challenges and impacts of these strategies through in-depth interviews, participatory observations, and document analysis. Results indicate that while FKUB's programs significantly enhance interfaith communication and reduce religious tensions, challenges such as societal resistance to moderation concepts, limited funding, and low community participation hinder broader implementation. This study underscores the importance of enhancing FKUB’s resource capacity and outreach strategies to strengthen social harmony. The findings provide practical recommendations for FKUB and similar institutions to effectively implement religious moderation programs within diverse communities.