Limited Resources Research Articles

Federated learning with differential privacy via fast Fourier transform for tighter-efficient combining.

Spurred by the simultaneous need for data privacy protection and data sharing, federated learning (FL) has been proposed. However, it still poses a risk of privacy leakage in it. This paper, an improved Differential Privacy (DP) algorithm to protect the federated learning model. Additionally, the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) is used in the computation of the privacy budget [Formula: see text], to minimize the impact of limited arithmetic resources and numerous users on the effectiveness of training model. Moreover, instead of direct analyses of the privacy budget ε through various methods, Privacy Loss Distribution (PLD) and privacy curves are adopted, while the number of artificial assignments hyperparameters is reduced, and the grid parameters delineated for FFT use are improved. The improved algorithm tightens parameter bounds and minimizes human factors' influence with minimal efficiency impact. It decreases the errors caused by truncation and discreteness of PLDs while expanding the discreteness interval to reduce the calculation workload. Furthermore, an improved activation function using a temper sigmoid with only one parameter [Formula: see text], smooths the accuracy curve and mitigates drastically fluctuating scenarios during model training. Finally, simulation results on real datasets show that our improved DP algorithm, which accounts for long trailing, facilitates a better balance between privacy and utility in federated learning models.

Priority-based QoS Extensions and IAM Improvements

The command and control system operates in a harsh and dynamic environment with limited resources and have a very high risk of failure or malfunction. In the case of military information systems, including the command and control system, the efficiency and effectiveness of system resource management are very important and required. Therefore, the application of a QoS-like approach is necessary to improve the operational effectiveness of all command and control system resources. However, supporting QoS at the entire command and control system level incurs additional costs and burdens for implementation and operation. This paper describes the necessity and possibility of collaboration with QoS and IAM (identity and access management) among the collaboration between core functions within the command and control system. This paper proposes an extended QoS approach to improve the operational effectiveness of the entire command and control system resources. As a result of this research, expanded concepts, structures, standards, and methods of collaboration between QoS and IAM are developed and presented, and their feasibility is demonstrated through prototype development and experiments.

Overcoming the Challenges of Including Learners with Visual Impairments Through Teacher Collaborations

In this article we report on a study undertaken with 255 teachers working with learners with visual impairments. The focus of our discussion is teachers’ implementation of inclusive education policies with learners with visual impairments in full-service schools in South Africa. We foreground the ways in which the teacher participants relied on teacher collaborations to overcome some of the challenges they faced as a result of limited resource provisions in schools in this country. We implemented an instrumental case study design and followed the approach of participatory reflection and action (PRA). The sample included teachers (n = 255) from seven full-service and ten special schools from five provinces in South Africa. In addition, 50 expert stakeholders who work in the field of visual impairment were involved. For data generation and documentation, we utilised PRA-based workshops, the observation-as-context-of-interaction method, audio-visual techniques, field notes, and reflective journals. The findings of our research confirm that full-service schools face distinct challenges regarding limited resources as well as teachers that are inexperienced to accommodate learners with visual impairments. Even though the teachers in our study were initially reluctant to implement inclusive education practices, their collaboration with fellow teachers and other informed stakeholders enabled them to address some of the challenges they experienced and implement inclusive practices. They subsequently formed a team and learnt from one another to facilitate positive changes through the implementation of inclusive practices, thereby following a socio-ecological approach to inclusive practices in full-service schools in South Africa.

Periodontal diseases in Africa.

Periodontal diseases, a group of complex conditions marked by an excessive immune response and periodontal tissue destruction, are a global health concern. Since 1990, the incidence of these diseases has doubled, with Western sub-Saharan Africa experiencing the highest burden. Accurate diagnosis and case identification are crucial for understanding the etiology, features of disease, research, treatment and prevention. Modern perspectives on periodontal disease classification are based on commonality among those affected. However, current literature is often plagued by methodological inconsistencies and focused on disease mechanisms in European populations. Health inequalities in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are exacerbated by these challenges, with sub-Saharan Africa, and Nigeria specifically, facing unique difficulties such as clinical personnel shortages and limited research infrastructure. This review explored disparities in periodontal disease research, care and outcomes in African populations. We highlighted these disparities and identified the factors contributing to inequities in periodontal health outcomes. We further demonstrated the critical need for inclusive and equitable healthcare and research practices tailored to the unique challenges faced by diverse populations and regions with limited resources. Addressing these disparities is essential for ensuring that advancements in healthcare are accessible to all, thereby improving global oral health and general health.

A multiple biomolecules-based rapid life detection protocol embedded in a rover scientific subsystem for soil sample analysis

The study of whether life exists, is extinct, or not depends on various sophisticated experimental studies, as many different signatures of life can be used. The experimental procedures that can be performed to identify life can be further restricted by time, resources, and mobility constraints. Therefore, any research analyzing the presence of extraterrestrial life must be precise and unambiguous. This research focuses on the objective of the extraterrestrial life detection domain and seeks to provide an efficient protocol that can produce life detection decisions based on empirical data obtained through chemical analysis under time and resource-constrained conditions. While the majority of existing frameworks in this field are designed to identify biomolecules, our goal is to accomplish the same with minimal operational expense and mission complexity. We argue that the thoughtful integration of multiple biomolecular detections with lesser complexity and a robust framework can improve overall mission performance by satisfying the necessary time and resource constraints. In this study, a rapid multiple biomolecules-based life detection protocol (MBLDP-R) from soil samples is developed from scratch and embedded in an operational scientific rover subsystem targeted for planetary analysis missions. The study uses artificial biomolecule samples and simulated extraterrestrial environments to illustrate the suggested protocol’s end-to-end process. First, we list a few significant biomolecules, including lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, ammonia, and pigments. Then, a weighted qualitative test scoring is applied to sort out the best test method for the finally selected biomolecules which are used as operational analogue to showcase the protocol’s in-situ analysis and decision-making capabilities. Based on the suitable biomolecules, a scientific exploration subsystem is developed, and the implemented protocol is built to perform onboard sample analysis. Evaluation results show that: (1) the proposed MBLDP-R protocol could effectively predict the classes with an average f1-score of 98.65% (macro) and 90.00% (micro), (2) the area under the Receiver Operating Characteristics (AUC-ROC) curve shows the sample categories to be correctly predicted 92% of the time (97% for Extant, 88% for Extinct, and 92% in the case of NPL), and (3) the protocol is time-efficient with an average completion time of 17.60 min, demonstrating the protocol’s rapid nature in detecting biosignatures in soil samples. The research outcome yields useful additional data for related future studies, particularly in the design of scientific frameworks for mission-specific requirements with limited resources while also serving as a reference point for constraint evaluation methods for similar systems.

A scoping review of food consumer aspects in transitioning to a safe and just agrifood system

Abstract The agrifood system holds the key to identifying potential transformative pathways to achieve prosperity for all within the limits of the planet's natural resources, thereby fostering a safe and just operating system (SJOS) for future generations. The agrifood system is currently not on the right track to meet this ambition. Food-consumer processes such as preference shifts toward healthy diets and substantial reductions in food losses and waste could help to avoid severe environmental degradation and decrease overall mortality, although it remains unclear whether such transitional developments are entirely compatible with socially responsible thresholds. In this paper, we conduct a scoping review approach to map the evidence on the underlying drivers of such demand-side processes in the context of a SJOS with the aim to provide insights on how to transform the EU agrifood system. This review specifically examines how consumer aspects influence the SJOS, rather than exploring the bidirectional relationship. We used a scoping review approach to select relevant studies. The selected papers were subjected to quantitative and qualitative analyses. As a result, we extract insights and draw lessons from the role of food-consumer processes in the transition toward a more SJOS for the agrifood system.

Edge Computing for AI-Based Brain MRI Applications: A Critical Evaluation of Real-Time Classification and Segmentation

Medical imaging plays a pivotal role in diagnostic medicine with technologies like Magnetic Resonance Imagining (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), Positron Emission Tomography (PET), and ultrasound scans being widely used to assist radiologists and medical experts in reaching concrete diagnosis. Given the recent massive uplift in the storage and processing capabilities of computers, and the publicly available big data, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has also started contributing to improving diagnostic radiology. Edge computing devices and handheld gadgets can serve as useful tools to process medical data in remote areas with limited network and computational resources. In this research, the capabilities of multiple platforms are evaluated for the real-time deployment of diagnostic tools. MRI classification and segmentation applications developed in previous studies are used for testing the performance using different hardware and software configurations. Cost–benefit analysis is carried out using a workstation with a NVIDIA Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), Jetson Xavier NX, Raspberry Pi 4B, and Android phone, using MATLAB, Python, and Android Studio. The mean computational times for the classification app on the PC, Jetson Xavier NX, and Raspberry Pi are 1.2074, 3.7627, and 3.4747 s, respectively. On the low-cost Android phone, this time is observed to be 0.1068 s using the Dynamic Range Quantized TFLite version of the baseline model, with slight degradation in accuracy. For the segmentation app, the times are 1.8241, 5.2641, 6.2162, and 3.2023 s, respectively, when using JPEG inputs. The Jetson Xavier NX and Android phone stand out as the best platforms due to their compact size, fast inference times, and affordability.

Deep-Sea Fauna Segmentation: A Comparative Analysis of Convolutional and Vision Transformer Architectures at Lucky Strike Vent Field

Abstract. Due to recent technological developments, the acquisition and availability of deep-sea imagery has increased exponentially in the last years, leading to an increasing backlog in image annotation and processing, attributable to limited specialized human resources. In this work, we investigate the performance of well-established convolutional neural networks and Vision Transformer (ViT) based architectures, namely, DeepLabv3+ and UNETR, for the segmentation of fauna in deep-sea images. The dataset consists of images captured at the Lucky Strike Vent field, located on the mid-Atlantic ridge, of three edifices named Montsegur, White Castle, and Eiffel Tower. Our experimental investigation reveals that the Vision Transformer consistently outperforms the fully convolutional deep learning architecture, by approximately 14% in terms of F1-Score, demonstrating the effectiveness of ViTs in capturing intricate patterns and long-range dependencies present in deep-sea imagery. Our findings highlight the potential of ViTs as a promising approach for accurate semantic segmentation in challenging environmental contexts, paving the way for improved understanding and analysis of deep-sea ecosystems.

Driving a three-age learning curriculum from local wisdom under the “YANGKHINOK Model” in Thailand

This study had the objective of developing a three-age learning curriculum from local wisdom under the YANGKHINOK Model which focuses on time, resources, knowledge, skills, and sincerity to enhance competency and leverage social networks in Khueang Nai District, Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand. Due to the dynamics of global society influencing Thai education, integrating local wisdom in curriculum development is essential for preserving cultural heritage and community sustainability. A mixed method of qualitative case studies and quantitative evaluation was employed to assess the efficacy of the local wisdom project. Key findings spotlighted the importance of community participation, educational coordination, and the appropriate development of a curriculum for all age groups by the YANGKHINOK Model (Youth, Adult, Narration, Gathering, Knowledge, Hearkening, Impetus, Network, Older Persons, Keeping). This inclusive approach emphasizes the critical role of collaboration among local communities and educational institutions to ensure that the curriculum remains relevant and adaptable across different generations. The approach also aims to create a contemporary democratic society by promoting continuous learning and sustainable professional development that fosters long-term community resilience. It was concluded that a sustainable community curriculum must include these components to meet the actual needs of the community, as well as being adaptable to social and economic changes. Effective use of limited local resources, strategic planning, and broad participation for practical results lead to lasting sustainability, providing a framework for continuous community improvement.

Collaborative Governance Networks Supporting Sustainable Ecotourism: A Case Study of Gili Iyang Island, Indonesia

The development of sustainable ecotourism on Gili Iyang Island, known for its high oxygen levels and unique local culture, requires collaboration among diverse stakeholders through effective governance networks. This study investigates the roles and contributions of key stakeholders—including the Sumenep District Tourism, Culture, Youth, and Sports Office (Dinas Pariwisata, Kebudayaan, Pemuda, dan Olahraga Kabupaten Sumenep or Disparbudpora), the Andang Taruna Tourism Awareness Group (Kelompok Sadar Wisata Andang Taruna or Pokdarwis), village governments, and local communities—in developing ecotourism on Gili Iyang Island, Indonesia. Using a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and document analysis. Findings show that governance networks are crucial in enhancing community empowerment, building local capacity, and improving infrastructure to support ecotourism. Nevertheless, challenges remain, including limited resources, conflicts between villages, and minimal private-sector engagement. Strengthening Pokdarwis’ managerial capacity, fostering inter-community synergies, and attracting private sector involvement are identified as essential strategies to ensure sustainable ecotourism. This research contributes to the broader literature on collaborative governance in remote island ecotourism, offering practical insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to create resilient, community-driven tourism initiatives that can be adapted to similar island settings.

Decarbonizing the global steel industry in a resource-constrained future-a systems perspective.

Decarbonizing the global steel industry hinges on three key limited resources: geological carbon storage, zero-emission electricity and end-of-life scrap. Existing system analysis calls for an accelerated expansion of the supply of these resources to meet the assumed ever-increasing steel demand. In this study, we propose a different view on how to decarbonize the global steel industry, based on the principle that resource supply can only expand in line with historical trends and actual construction plans. Our analysis shows that global steel production cannot grow any further within a Paris-compatible carbon budget, resulting in a shortfall of approximately 30% against 2050 demand. This trajectory involves the phasing out of blast furnaces, along with strong growth in scrap recycling and hydrogen-based production. These findings highlight critical yet often overlooked challenges: (i) reducing excess demand while providing essential services, (ii) producing high-grade steel through upcycling scrap, and (iii) ensuring an equitable distribution of limited production across the globe. These perspectives contrast with those of the current agenda, which largely emphasizes the need to invest in new production technologies. Grounded in a physical basis, this analysis offers a complementary perspective for a more balanced debate in policymaking and industrial strategy. This article is part of the discussion meeting issue 'Sustainable metals: science and systems'.

An energy-aware protocol in wireless sensor networks using the scattered search algorithm and fuzzy logic.

Given the resource limitations of wireless sensor networks (WSNs), energy conservation is of utmost importance. Moreover, minimizing data collection delays is crucial to maintaining data freshness. Additionally, it is desirable to increase the number of collected data samples to enhance accuracy and robustness in data collection. For this purpose, this research article proposes a clustering-based routing protocol aimed at maximizing the delivery of data samples while minimizing energy consumption and data collection delays. The protocol employs a scattered search algorithm and fuzzy logic to cluster the sensor nodes. By considering the distance to the sink and the remaining energy level of the battery, the network is dynamically divided into clusters using a lightweight clustering approach. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method, simulations were conducted in OPNET using the AFSRP protocol. The results demonstrate superior performance of the proposed method in terms of end-to-end delay by 13.44%, media access delay by 75.2%, throughput rate by 20.55%, energy consumption by 13.52%, signal-to-noise ratio by 43.40% and delivery rate of successfully sending data to the sink is 0.21% higher than the well-known AFSRP method.

Problematika Pesantren dan Lembaga Pendidikan Islam

Islamic boarding schools and educational institutions play an important role in maintaining and passing on Islamic religious values, culture, and traditional values. They also play an important role in shaping the character, morals and spirituality of society. However, they face many challenges in the complex modern world. This research investigates the problems faced by Pesantren and Islamic education institutions in Indonesia. It does so by using a qualitative approach and descriptive analysis. The study shows that Pesantren greatly help overcome poverty, strengthen brotherhood, lower unemployment rates, and combat ignorance. However, they also face many challenges, such as the dynamics of modernization and globalization that often conflict with their traditional values, limited resources and infrastructure, and the difficulty of integrating modern education curriculum with traditional religious education. Pesantren have a strategic position to address social issues, but they face problems such as limited resources and curriculum integration. Curriculum improvements and enhanced educational methodologies are needed to achieve this. Pesantren should increase general subjects, strengthen research activities, improve soft skills, and cooperate with other educational institutions.

Analisis Sistem Pengawasan MUI Terhadap Sertifikat Halal pada UMKM di Kota Surakarta

This study aims to analyze the role of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) in supervising the halal certification process for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Surakarta City. The research method used is descriptive qualitative, involving MSME actors, MUI Surakarta officers, and a number of related documents. The results of the study indicate that MUI has an important role in ensuring the halalness of products and increasing consumer confidence. Initially, halal certification was issued by MUI Surakarta, but now the authority has been transferred to the Halal Product Guarantee Organizing Agency (BPJPH) under the Ministry of Religion. However, MUI still has a role in supervision through its fatwas and monitoring of products in circulation. MSMEs in Surakarta face challenges in obtaining halal certification, such as limited resources and knowledge of certification procedures. However, halal certification not only benefits consumers, but also producers, because products with a halal label can increase customer trust and loyalty. The effectiveness of the MUI supervision system in Surakarta already has a strong foundation, but there is still a need for improvement, especially in facing the challenges of the digital era and dynamic regulatory changes. This study presents a new approach with a focus on the analysis of the MUI supervision system for halal certification of MSMEs in Surakarta based on product identification, type, nature, and characteristics. The final result is that the role of MUI in facilitating and supervising the halal certification process is very important to improve the effectiveness of supervision and facilitate MSME access to halal certification. This study provides valuable insights for policy makers and halal industry players in improving the effectiveness of supervision and facilitating MSME access to halal certification.

A Study on How Libraries Operate as Health Spaces in the United States.

A health space is any physical, social, or virtual space that supports building health literacy skills, promotes health behavior, preventive health, and wellbeing, or provides health care, health information, or health or social services. To move the needle on health, especially preventive health, a focus on non-traditional health spaces is critical. Libraries serve various community needs such as food distribution, health literacy, education, immunization, and health screenings. This study explores the extent to which libraries are equipped to function as a health space. A convergent mixed-methods approach was utilized; 234 library personnel were randomly recruited using data from the 2017 Public Libraries Survey to complete a survey and 24 semi-structured follow-up interviews were conducted. Our findings support that libraries function as a health space in multiple ways including providing important health and social programming and services to patrons. They help meet patron's health information needs by leveraging the expertise of community partners and incorporating valuable input from patrons in programming decisions. However, the capacity of libraries to carry out these health initiatives varies, in particular due to limited staff expertise in health-related topics and structural issues (e.g., funding). Our research emphasizes the need to integrate organizational health literacy attributes into library operations, specifically by (1) streamlining strategic partnerships with community experts in libraries in high-need areas to extend their limited resources, and (2) incorporating health literacy into missions and operations to draw necessary financial and personnel support to overcome salient challenges (i.e., funding and staff training).

Call Blocking Estimation Using Adaptive Channel Reservation for Hand‐Off Calls in Wireless Cellular Network

ABSTRACTThe wireless cellular network (WCN) provides services to many users with limited radio resources. In WCN, resource allocation is important to provide the desired quality of service (QoS). Among the two possible types of calls in WCN, hand‐off calls (HCs) have higher priority than new calls (NCs). In this paper, we developed a mathematical model to estimate call blocking using an optimal number of guard channel (GC) for HCs by considering target hand‐off call dropping probability (HCDP). We named this model the optimal guard channel reservation (OCR) policy. This analytical model assumes the long‐term average of the traffic parameters and so is far from making any correlation with the operation of the existing system. In real, the traffic parameters are dynamic. Further, we proposed an optimal adaptive guard channel reservation (OACR) policy to obtain optimal performance. It adjusts the GCs dynamically w.r.t the traffic conditions to keep HCDP below the target. We have implemented the OACR scheme by using a test bed. Finally, we have applied both mathematical model (i.e., OCR policy) and OACR policy to a wireless cellular network, that is, Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) 900 system.

Optimalisasi Pelaksanaan Pemantauan dan Evaluasi Kinerja Penyelenggara Pelayanan Publik (PEKPPP) di Puskesmas Gunung Anyar

Optimizing the implementation of monitoring and evaluation of public service provider performance (PEKPPP) at Puskesmas Gunung Anyar is a crucial effort to enhance public health service quality. This study employs a qualitative approach with a case study method to delve into the subject. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews, observations, and document analysis. Findings indicate the necessity of efficient management information system integration and enhanced human resource capacity. Additionally, active community participation in the evaluation process is crucial to improve responsiveness and accountability of Puskesmas. The research results show that the implementation of monitoring and evaluation at the Gunung Anyar Community Health Center still faces various challenges, including limited human resources, lack of training, and minimal use of information technology. To overcome this obstacle, it is recommended to increase human resource capacity through regular training, develop an integrated management information system, and increase community participation in the evaluation process. Implementation of this strategy is expected to increase the effectiveness of performance monitoring and evaluation, which in turn will improve the quality of health services at the Gunung Anyar Community Health Center. This study provides important insights for policy makers in formulating better policies for managing health services at the Puskesmas level.

Analysis of the Use of Differentiated Instruction Learning Strategies in Answering Diverse Learning Needs in the Classroom of MAS Darul Hadist Hutabaringin Kec. Siabu Kab. Mandailing Natal

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of the use of Differentiated Instruction (DI) strategies in responding to diverse learning needs in the classroom of students at MAS Darul Hadist Hutabaringin Kec. Siabu Kab. Mandailing Natal. The research method used is a qualitative approach with data collection techniques through observation, interviews, and document analysis. The results of the study indicate that the implementation of DI can increase students' motivation, involvement, and understanding of the subject matter. Teachers apply grouping based on interests and abilities and vary learning methods to adjust to student characteristics, which contribute positively to their learning outcomes. The implementation of DI faces challenges in the form of limited time, resources, and learning facilities. Teachers need additional preparation to adapt materials and methods, and institutional support is needed so that the implementation of DI runs optimally. This study concludes that DI is an effective learning strategy in improving the quality of education in school environments with diverse learning needs, and recommends that schools support the implementation of DI through ongoing training and improving learning facilities.

Analisis Implementasi Kurikulum Merdeka Pada Mata Pelajaran PAI Perspektif Teori Belajar Konstruktivisme dan Humanisme di SMA N 2 Purwokerto

This study aims to analyze the implementation of Merdeka Curriculum in Islamic Religious Education (PAI) subjects at SMA N 2 Purwokerto, from the perspective of constructivism and humanism learning theories. The research method used is qualitative, with data collection techniques through classroom observation, interviews with teachers and students, and document analysis. The results showed that the implementation of Merdeka Curriculum in PAI subjects at SMA N 2 Purwokerto is still in its early stages. Teachers began to apply several constructivistic and humanistic learning principles, such as project-based learning, problem-based learning, and cooperative learning. However, there are still some obstacles faced, such as the teacher's lack of understanding of constructivistic and humanistic theories, limited learning resources, and lack of support from the school. The results of this study indicate that the implementation of Merdeka Curriculum in PAI subjects at SMA N 2 Purwokerto still needs to be strengthened. Teachers need to improve their understanding of constructivistic and humanistic theories, and get better support from the school to implement learner-centered learning.

Strategy for Improving Business Performance in Micro and Small Enterprises through Innovation and Digitalization

This study aims to examine strategies for enhancing business performance in micro and small enterprises (MSEs) through the integration of innovation and digitalization. In an era where digital transformation has become critical for competitiveness, MSEs face unique challenges due to limited resources, constrained access to technology, and often limited technical expertise. Using a qualitative approach through library research and literature review, this study synthesizes current research on the role of innovation and digital adoption in boosting productivity, expanding market reach, and improving operational efficiencies in MSEs. Findings reveal that innovation and digitalization not only facilitate access to broader customer bases but also enable cost-effective marketing and streamlined operations. Additionally, the analysis indicates that overcoming barriers such as technology adoption costs and skill gaps is essential for successful digital transformation in MSEs. Supportive policies, digital literacy training, and partnerships with technology providers emerge as critical components to foster a conducive environment for these enterprises. The study contributes to the ongoing discourse by identifying key success factors for MSEs embarking on digital and innovative transformations. Furthermore, it provides recommendations for policy makers, business owners, and stakeholders to enhance MSE resilience and competitiveness in a digitalized economy. This research underscores the importance of aligning digital strategies with business goals to ensure sustainable growth and adaptation in a rapidly evolving market landscape.