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- Student Innovators Soar to New Heights at Drone Summit 2024 October 28, 2024
The Amravathi Drone Summit 2024 emerged as a landmark event, uniting industry leaders, trailblazers, and visionaries committed to revolutionising the future of drone technology. This varsity proudly showcased its expertise as the esteemed technology partner for this high-profile summit. The summit was charged with excitement as participants explored an array of drones through impressive exhibitions, engaging hackathons, and thought-provoking panel discussions.
The Hackathon tested the skills and creativity of the brightest minds. Our very own team of second-year Civil Engineering students made waves by clinching the runner-up prize. The winning trio, Ms Nithya, Ms Sumaya, and Mr Hitesh, received a cash prize of ₹50,000. This achievement not only reflected their hard work and dedication but also showcased the exceptional talent nurtured at the university. Under the guidance of faculty members Dr Harish Puppala and Dr Pranav Peddintti, Assistant Professors in the Department of Civil Engineering, these students are poised to become future leaders in drone technology.
The summit also featured notable panel discussions that provided deeper insights into the evolving landscape of drone technology. Among the distinguished speakers was Vice Chancellor Prof. Manoj K. Arora, who served as a prominent panellist in the discussions. He was joined by other faculty members, including Dr Raviteja, Head of the Department of Civil Engineering, Dr Pranav Peddinti, and Dr Harish Puppala, Coordinators of the Centre for Drone Technology and the Centre for Geospatial Technology, respectively, who contributed their expertise on the latest developments in the industry.
With the remarkable performances of our students and the strategic discussions by our faculty, the Amravathi Drone Summit 2024 marks a bold step forward for drone technology.
- CINEMATES Team Clinches 2nd Prize in National Documentary Competition on Disaster Management October 28, 2024
SRM University-AP is thrilled to announce that its talented CINEMATES team has secured the 2nd prize at the national level in the Documentary Competition on Disaster Management. This prestigious event was organised by the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, in celebration of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction 2024.
The competition centred on the theme “Empowering the Next Generation for a Resilient Future,” encouraging participants to explore innovative approaches to disaster management through their creative works. The CINEMATES team’s entry, a short film titled “After Shock,” stands out for its poignant narrative and compelling visuals that underscore the critical importance of disaster management education.
Written and directed by the brilliant student Shanmuka Shiva Durgesh Durvasula, “After Shock” delves into the harrowing experience of an earthquake through the contrasting perspectives of two individuals. The film masterfully portrays their survival instincts, shedding light on the emotional and psychological impact of such disasters. Noteworthy contributions in editing were made by Shaik Thaheer, Durgesh, and stunning cinematography by Siva Avula, all of which elevate the film’s powerful message.
In addition to the recognition, the team was awarded a cash prize of ₹1,50,000, a testament to their hard work and dedication. This achievement not only highlights the creative talents of SRM University-AP’s students but also reinforces the institution’s commitment to fostering a culture of awareness and resilience in disaster management.
As the university celebrates this remarkable accomplishment, it encourages all students to continue their journey toward making a meaningful difference in society through innovative thinking and responsible filmmaking.
- Bridging Minds and Machines: A Guest Lecture on Language Processing October 24, 2024
The Department of Literature & Languages hosted a guest lecture for students enrolled in the open elective course “Decoding Language,” which is based on Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). The lecture took place on October 14 and 15, 2024 and featured Dr Debdarsan Niyogi, an authority in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Generative AI.
Dr Niyogi’s lecture, titled “Mind & Machine: How Language is Processed,” focused on the intersection of human cognition and artificial intelligence in language processing. He provided in-depth insights into how natural language processing (NLP) algorithms enable machines to interpret and generate human language. The sessions bridged the gap between human linguistic abilities and machine learning models.
Students gained valuable knowledge about the parallels between human and machine language processing. They learned about the complexities of NLP and its real-world applications in AI, data science, and machine learning. This understanding will not only enhance their grasp of neuro-linguistic programming but also prepare them for future endeavours in the growing field of AI-driven language technologies.
Continue reading → - Department of Psychology and the Wellness Centre Partner for Mental Health Awareness Programme October 23, 2024
The Wellness Club under the Department of Psychology, in collaboration with the Wellness Center at SRM University-AP, hosted a mental health awareness programme aimed at undergraduate students on September 14, 2024. The initiative focused on raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention while promoting a supportive campus environment for the students.
University counsellors Ms Mohua Das, Ms Alekhya Sankara, and Mr Joel Kristof Gibbs played a pivotal role in the programme, leading discussions and workshops on the emotional and psychological challenges students may face. They addressed critical issues like stress management, anxiety, and crisis intervention, highlighting their extensive experience in supporting students’ mental wellness.
The programme’s objectives included reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues, encouraging open conversations, and equipping students with tools to recognise warning signs of suicide. Interactive activities, such as the Wall of Hope and Emotional Wheel, engaged participants in expressing hope and reflecting on their emotions.
In addition to discussions, an Art Therapy Workshop provided a creative outlet for attendees, teaching grounding techniques for emotional healing. Students also showcased their creativity through poetry and digital art competitions, with themes centred on hope, resilience, and suicide prevention.
An information booth offered attendees resources on mental health support systems and coping strategies. The event concluded with a Valedictory Ceremony, where reflections on the day were shared, and prizes were awarded to competition winners.
Participants left feeling empowered and equipped with valuable tools to support their mental well-being and that of their peers. This initiative marks a significant step in SRM University-AP‘s commitment to fostering a supportive and safe environment for student mental health. As mental wellness continues to be a priority, the varsity encourages ongoing participation in mental health initiatives to further enhance awareness and support across the campus.
- A Novel Method to Estimate Parameters in Complex Biochemical Systems October 23, 2024
With the advent of cutting-edge technology, Dr Abhijit Dasgupta, Assistant Professor at the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, has conducted breakthrough research in understanding biochemical systems with limited data in hand. His research has been published as a paper titled “Efficient Parameter Estimation in Biochemical Pathways: Overcoming Data Limitations with Constrained Regularization and Fuzzy Inference” in the Elsevier journal Expert Systems With Applications, having an impact factor of 7.5.
Abstract
This study introduces a new method to estimate parameters in biochemical pathways without relying on experimental data. The method called the Constrained Regularized Fuzzy Inferred Extended Kalman Filter (CRFIEKF) uses fuzzy logic to estimate parameters based on known but imprecise relationships between molecules. To handle complex and unstable data, the method incorporates Tikhonov regularisation, improving accuracy and stability. CRFIEKF was tested on several pathways, including glycolysis and JAK/STAT signalling, and reliable results were obtained. This approach offers a useful tool for estimating parameters in complex biochemical systems, especially when experimental data is limited.
Explanation of the Research in Layperson’s Terms
This research is about finding a new way to predict how living cells work, especially when scientists don’t have enough data from experiments. Normally, to understand how cells function, scientists need to collect a lot of information over time, which can be costly, difficult, or even impossible.
To solve this, the researchers developed a new method that doesn’t need as much experimental data. Instead of relying on exact measurements, their method uses fuzzy logic, which is like making smart guesses based on patterns and relationships we know, even if we don’t have perfect information. They also used a technique to keep these guesses steady and reliable, even when the data is messy or incomplete.
They tested this method on different biological processes, such as how cells turn food into energy (a process called glycolysis) and how cells send signals using proteins (like in the JAK/STAT pathway). The method worked well and gave accurate results.
In simple terms, this research helps scientists predict how cells behave without needing a lot of expensive and hard-to-get data, making it easier to study the complex systems inside living organisms.
Practical Implementation/Social Implications of the Research
The practical implementation of this research lies in its ability to accurately predict how biological systems, such as cells, function without relying heavily on time-consuming and costly experimental data. This method can be applied in various fields, including drug development, personalised medicine, and agriculture, where understanding complex biological processes is crucial. For instance, pharmaceutical companies could use this technique to model how a drug will interact with different biological pathways, speeding up the drug discovery process. Similarly, it could help tailor medical treatments to individual patients by predicting how their unique biological makeup will respond to specific therapies.
The broader social impact of this research is significant. By reducing the need for extensive experimental data, this method can lower the cost and time required for scientific discoveries in healthcare and biotechnology. This could lead to faster development of new medicines, more affordable healthcare solutions, and personalised treatments that improve patient outcomes. In agriculture, this method can help optimise crop growth and resilience, contributing to food security. Overall, this research provides a pathway for more efficient and cost-effective advancements in biology, healthcare, and environmental sciences, ultimately benefiting society by improving health and sustainability.
Collaborations
1. St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, USA
2. University of California, San Diego, USA
3. Columbia University, New York, USA
4. Nantes Université, France
5. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
6. Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology, Palampur, India
7. Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, India
8. Aliah University, Kolkata, India
9. Michelin India Private Limited, Pune, India
10. Gitam University, Bangalore, India
Future Research Plans
Building on the foundation laid by this research, the next steps will involve expanding its applications to more complex biological systems and personalised medicine. The following outlines a future roadmap:
1. From Time-Course Data to Pathway Enrichment and Single-Cell Modeling:
The current method, which estimates parameters without relying on time-course data, can be adapted to use time-course data when available. Time-course data captures how biological processes change over time, offering valuable insights. By integrating this data, we can refine the parameter estimation and achieve a more precise pathway enrichment analysis. This approach can be particularly beneficial in single-cell studies, where understanding the variability in cellular responses within complex diseases like cancer, diabetes, or neurodegenerative disorders is crucial. Modelling these pathways at the single-cell level will enable us to capture heterogeneity within tissues and improve disease understanding.
2. Simulating Pathways to Identify Drug Targets:
Once the pathways are enriched and modelled, we can simulate these biological networks to predict how different interventions—such as drugs—might influence the system. This simulation can help identify potential drug targets, particularly those that are critical in disease progression. For instance, by manipulating the modelled pathways, we can observe how specific proteins or molecules influence the disease state, providing insights into where a drug could be most effective.
3. Predicting Drug Side Effects:
After identifying potential drug targets, the next step is to predict the side effects of these interventions. The same model can simulate unintended consequences by analysing how modifying a target impacts other connected pathways. This simulation can provide early warnings about potential side effects, reducing the risk during later stages of drug development. Understanding these off-target effects at an early stage will be crucial for designing safer drugs.
4. Predicting Drug Molecules Using Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs):
Incorporating machine learning, particularly Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), can take this research to the next level. GANs can be trained to generate new drug molecules by learning from existing drug databases. By feeding the pathway model’s identified targets into the GAN, we can generate candidate drug molecules that are predicted to interact with these targets effectively. This approach can significantly speed up the drug discovery process by automating the design of new drug candidates tailored to specific biological pathways.
5. Integration with Omics Data for Personalized Medicine:
The future of personalised medicine relies on integrating various layers of biological data—such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics—into a cohesive model. By integrating pathway data with these other “omics” layers, this research will facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of individual patient biology. This integration allows for tailored treatment strategies, making personalised medicine more achievable. For instance, based on an individual’s genetic makeup and biological pathways, we can predict how they will respond to specific drugs and design personalised therapies with minimal side effects.
6. Pathway-Based Drug Design and Validation:
Once potential drug molecules are identified using GANs, they can be simulated within the enriched pathways to test their efficacy in silico. These simulations will allow researchers to understand how the drug interacts with the target pathway and its downstream effects. If the simulation shows promising results, the drug candidates can be prioritised for lab testing and clinical trials. This systematic approach, from modelling to simulation, could drastically reduce the time and cost associated with traditional drug discovery processes.
Summary
This plan transforms the current research from a powerful parameter estimation technique into a comprehensive framework for personalized medicine and drug discovery. By expanding to time-course data, single-cell modeling, pathway simulation, and integrating cutting-edge AI techniques like GANs, we can predict drug molecules tailored to individual biological systems. This personalized approach not only streamlines drug discovery but also enhances the safety and effectiveness of treatments, paving the way for more efficient and precise medical interventions.
Continue reading → - Prof. Mythily Ramaswamy on Exploring the Intersection of Fourier Analysis and Partial Differential Equations October 22, 2024
The Department of Mathematics hosted its 9th Distinguished Lecture, “PDE through Fourier” on September 18, 2024. The speaker, Prof. Mythily Ramaswamy, a renowned scholar in the fields of partial differential equations, control theory, and fluid dynamics addressed a crowd of faculty members, PhD students, MSc students, and attendees from various other Departments.
Prof. Mythily Ramaswamy’s lecture delved into the intricate development of partial differential equations (PDE) as influenced by the groundbreaking work on heat conduction by Fourier in the early 19th century. Prof. Ramaswamy, skillfully traced the history of Fourier’s discovery, leading to the formulation of the Fourier Series—a fundamental aspect of solving PDEs. She also explored modern developments in Fourier analysis and its vital applications in the realm of PDEs.
Prof. Mythily is currently serving as a NASI Senior Scientist at the International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS-TIFR) in Bengaluru, she has held significant positions such as Dean at the TIFR Centre for Applicable Mathematics. A recipient of the prestigious P C Mahalanobis Medal from the Indian National Science Academy, Prof. Ramaswamy is recognised for her substantial contributions to nonlinear functional analysis and optimal control, and she takes pride in mentoring the next generation of mathematicians.
Following the lecture, a lively 15-minute Q&A session provided attendees the opportunity to engage with Prof. Ramaswamy. Participants raised thoughtful questions, which sparked invigorating discussions on the applications of PDEs and the pivotal role of Fourier analysis in modern mathematics. The speaker’s valuable insights enriched the audience’s understanding and prompted further interest in the subject.
The event was deemed a resounding success, significantly enriching the academic experience of all participants. Both PhD students and faculty members gleaned crucial knowledge from Prof. Ramaswamy’s expertise, enhancing the intellectual atmosphere of the university. This lecture is poised to positively impact the institution’s academic reputation and foster future research collaborations. The Department of Mathematics looks forward to hosting more events that contribute to the vibrant academic community.
- Dr Jaidev Kaushik Harnesses the Potential of Waste-Derived Copper Flakes October 22, 2024
In a society where sustainability is the watchword, Dr Jaidev Kaushik, Assistant Professor at the Department of Chemistry introduces an innovative method for producing acetanilide derivatives, using waste-derived copper flakes as a catalyst. This environmentally friendly approach enables a single-step synthesis while promoting a “waste to wealth” philosophy. His paper titled, “Waste-derived Copper Flakes for Solvent-Free Reductive Acetamidation of Nitroarenes,” featured in the Q1 Journal, Langmuir (ACS).
Abstract:
Amides are the most vital chemical moieties used in organic and biological processes and as a starting material in many industrial sectors like pharmaceuticals, agro-based, polymers, solvents, dyes, pigments, etc. The most common synthesis method of amides is by first reducing nitroarenes to their corresponding amines, followed by acylation with the required acyl group, a two-step process involving expensive metal catalysts. Given this, we have utilized waste-derived copper (Cu) flakes as a cost-effective heterogeneous catalyst for solvent-free and one-pot reductive acylation of nitroarenes. Metallic zerovalent copper flakes (f-ZCu) were isolated from waste copper Cu scrap/flakes/turnings generated after the grinding and cutting from the Cu industries. Moreover, the same procedure was also utilized to produce various substrates, including the gram-scale synthesis of the well-known crucial antipyretic drug, paracetamol.
Practical / Social Implications:
The proposed copper waste-derived heterogeneous catalyst can replace toxic and heavy metal catalysts from various organic synthesis reactions and can be utilized in the large-scale synthesis of important drugs such as paracetamol under more optimized conditions.
Collaborations:
Dr Sumit Kumar Sonkar (MNIT Jaipur, India)
Future Research Plans:
1. The adsorption/photodegradation-assisted quick and efficient removal of next-generation advanced pollutants such as microplastic, pesticides, pharmaceutical waste, etc. by hydrophobic carbon aerogel and their doped and functionalized versions.
2. Utilising waste-derived heterogeneous catalysts in organic transformation reactions.
3. Selective sensing of toxic metal ions/biomarkers/biomolecules using fluorescent nanomaterials.
4. Upcycling of carbonates/CO2 via photo/thermal assisted reactions to get C1 and C2 hydrocarbons (green fuel).
- Environmental Sustainability in Corporate Business Firms of Ghana October 22, 2024
It is pivotal for multinational companies to opt for sustainable growth while expanding their domains. In this regard, Dr Manisha Kumari, Assistant Professor from the Department of Management, Paari School of Business, has published her paper titled “The Impact of Corporate Environmental Reporting on the Financial Performance of Listed Manufacturing in Ghana” along with her research scholars Mr Musah Mohammed Saeed and Ms Mohammed Shahin Sultana in the Q1 journal Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management with the impact factor 8.3.
Abstract
A growing number of businesses are facing criticism for engaging in environmentally damaging practices. Despite advancements in technology and operational efficiency, the environmental challenges confronting businesses have become increasingly urgent. As disclosure requirements have expanded, the importance of reporting standards for environmental sustainability has risen. This study explores the impact of corporate environmental reporting on the financial performance of listed manufacturing firms in Ghana. It analyses ten years (2012-2021) of annual reports from 20 publicly traded manufacturing companies, using panel regression and content analysis to assess the data. The findings reveal that environmental sustainability disclosure (ENVD) has a positive and significant effect on return on equity (ROE) and net profit margin (NPM). Furthermore, disclosures related to health, safety, and community development initiatives have a strong positive impact on ROE. The study recommends that policymakers develop guidelines, especially for environmental reporting, to aid firms in preparing their annual reports. It also suggests that corporate accountants expand their expertise and collaborate with environmental and ecological experts. This research offers valuable insights for policymakers and provides a foundation for further investigation into the effects of corporate environmental reporting (CER) on the performance of listed firms in sub-Saharan Africa.
Explanation of the Research in Layperson’s Terms
In simple terms, this study looks at how companies are being criticised for harming the environment, even though they have access to better technology and more efficient ways of working. Environmental problems for businesses are getting more serious, and as governments and organisations require companies to share more information about how they affect the environment, the standards for reporting this information have become more important.
The research focuses on how reporting environmental activities affects the financial success of manufacturing companies in Ghana. It examines reports from 20 publicly traded companies over ten years (2012-2021). The analysis shows that companies that disclose their environmental efforts, such as how they manage health, safety, and community projects, tend to have better financial outcomes, particularly in terms of the profit they return to shareholders and how much profit they make overall.
The study recommends that governments create clear guidelines for environmental reporting to help companies include this information in their annual reports. It also suggests that accountants should work more closely with environmental experts to improve their knowledge. The research provides important information for policymakers and encourages further exploration into how reporting on environmental activities affects company performance in Africa.
Practical Implementation/Social Implications of the Research
The study shows that environmental sustainability disclosures (ENVD) positively impact net profit margin (NPM) and return on equity (ROE) but have minimal effect on return on assets (ROA). This emphasises the need for stricter regulations to ensure comprehensive sustainability reporting, with policymakers incentivising better practices to boost financial performance.
- Energy disclosure (END) positively affects NPM, ROA, and ROE, suggesting mandatory energy-efficiency reporting. Regulators should set standardised metrics and offer tax incentives to encourage energy-efficient technologies.
- Mandatory environmental reporting by companies can help achieve environmental goals, gain importance in securing trade partnerships, and attract global capital.
- Health and safety disclosures (HSD) improve financial metrics, underscoring the need for stricter workplace safety regulations and rewarding safety-focused companies to enhance both worker safety and financial outcomes.
- Community involvement disclosure (CID), which has a negative but insignificant effect on financial performance, highlights the need for standardised reporting and alignment with core business strategies to show long-term value.
- To boost transparency, integrated reporting should be adopted nationwide, embedding environmental and social disclosures into financial reports to better demonstrate their long-term impact. Strengthening Ghana’s weak regulatory framework and aligning it with international standards (e.g., IFRS S1 and S2) would improve corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices, particularly in community development.
- Fiscal incentives, such as tax breaks, could encourage firms to invest in long-term sustainability projects, such as education and healthcare. Capacity building within firms, including sustainability training, would improve both financial and environmental outcomes.
- Standard method of accounting for environmental reporting can bring consistency in the market. Also, they required a proper set of guidelines that can attract environmental investors.
Overall, policy reforms focused on transparency, regulation, and aligning sustainability with financial goals would significantly benefit Ghana’s corporate sector.
Future Research Plans
Dr Manisha plans to shift her focus from traditional accounting standards to the growing field of sustainability reporting. This transition aligns with the increasing global emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues, which have become central to corporate accountability and transparency. Sustainability reporting has been a topic of ongoing discussion, reflecting the need for businesses to disclose not only their financial performance but also their impact on the planet and society.
Continue reading → - Prof. R Ramanujam Exploring the Role of Mathematics and Science in Social Inclusion October 22, 2024
On October 4, 2024, Department of Mathematics at SRM University-AP hosted its 10th Distinguished Lecture, featuring renowned mathematician and educator Prof. R Ramanujam. The event attracted a diverse audience, including BSc and BTech students, PhD candidates, and faculty members, all eager to engage with the critical topic of mathematics and science education for students from socially and economically marginalised backgrounds.
Prof. Ramanujam’s lecture posed a thought-provoking question: “What do mathematics and science education mean to a student from socially and economically marginalised sections?” Drawing from his extensive experience in various educational contexts, he provided valuable insights into the intersection of education and social equity. His work with the Tamil Nadu Science Forum, government curriculum bodies, and teacher education programs at Azim Premji University in Bengaluru informed his perspective on the necessity of aligning educational practices with the realities faced by marginalised communities.
During his talk, Prof. Ramanujam emphasised the importance of conducting educational research that is deeply rooted in social contexts. He argued that curriculum-making decisions should be informed by such research to ensure that education is socially inclusive and responsive to the unique challenges faced by disadvantaged students. His advocacy for an education system that addresses the needs of all learners resonated strongly with the audience, highlighting the potential for education to serve as a transformative force in society.
Prof. R Ramanujam is a distinguished figure in the fields of mathematics and education. He completed his PhD at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) and pursued postdoctoral work at the City University of New York (CUNY), USA. His long-standing association with the Institute of Mathematical Sciences (IMSc) in Chennai and his current role as a visiting professor at Azim Premji University further underscore his commitment to advancing educational practices.
The lecture provided a stimulating exploration of how mathematics and science education can help address social inequalities. Prof. Ramanujam’s reflections on education, grounded in his experiences with marginalised communities, left a lasting impact on attendees. The event concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where participants raised questions about the challenges of implementing socially rooted educational reforms. This discussion reinforced the lecture’s key themes of inclusivity and the transformative potential of education when designed to meet the diverse needs of learners.
The 10th Distinguished Lecture at SRM University-AP not only highlighted the importance of educational equity but also inspired dialogue on how institutions can better serve all students, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds.
Continue reading → - Pioneering IoT Security: Dr Mohammad Published in Prestigious Q1 Journal October 17, 2024
Dr Mohammad Abdussami, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, has made a significant contribution to the field of Internet of Things (IoT) security with the publication of his paper titled “APDEAC-IoT: Design of Lightweight Authenticated Key Agreement Protocol for Intra and Inter-IoT Device Communication Using ECC with FPGA Implementation.” This groundbreaking research has been published in the esteemed Q1 journal Computers and Electrical Engineering, which boasts an impact factor of 4.
Dr Abdussami’s research addresses critical security challenges faced by IoT devices, particularly in facilitating secure communication between intra and inter-device networks. The lightweight authenticated key agreement protocol he has developed utilizes Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) and Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) implementation to enhance the security framework of IoT ecosystems.
As the adoption of IoT devices continues to expand across various sectors, the importance of robust security protocols cannot be overstated. Dr Abdussami’s work is poised to make a substantial impact on how devices communicate safely and efficiently, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of data transmitted over the network.
As the demand for secure IoT solutions continues to grow, Dr Abdussami’s research stands as a beacon for future developments in this crucial area, potentially paving the way for safer and more efficient IoT interactions globally.
Abstract:
In this research work, we proposed a fog-enabled network architecture integrated with IoT devices (Intra and Inter-domain IoT devices) and developed the DEAC-IoT scheme using Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) for secure authentication and key agreement. Our protocol is designed to protect device-to-device communication from security threats in resource-constrained IoT environments.
Citation format:
Abdussami Mohammad, Sanjeev Kumar Dwivedi, Taher Al-Shehari, P. Saravanan, Mohammed Kadrie, Taha Alfakih, Hussain Alsalman, and Ruhul Amin. “DEAC-IoT: Design of lightweight authenticated key agreement protocol for Intra and Inter-IoT device communication using ECC with FPGA implementation.” Computers and Electrical Engineering 120 (2024): 109696.
Explanation of the Research in Layperson’s Terms:
With more and more devices connecting wirelessly through the Internet of Things (IoT) (think of smart home gadgets, wearables, etc.), keeping their communications secure has become a big priority. However, many current communication methods for IoT devices don’t provide strong enough security. This leaves them open to cyber-attacks.
The challenge is to create a security system that is safe from attacks and doesn’t require too many computations. This is important because IoT devices often have limited resources (like low battery power or slower processors).
In this research, the authors have devised a solution: a new type of network setup (called fog-enabled architecture) that connects IoT devices with each other and with external devices. They’ve also developed a security protocol called DEAC-IoT, which uses Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC)—a highly efficient method for securing communications.
Their system makes it easier for IoT devices to authenticate (verify each other’s identity) and securely exchange keys (used to encrypt data), all while being lightweight enough to run on devices that don’t have a lot of processing power or energy.
In short: the paper offers a way to securely connect IoT devices with minimal computations, making communication between devices safe from hackers, even in environments where cyber threats are common.
Practical Implication and Social Implications Associated:
The practical implementation of this research can strengthen the security of IoT devices across many sectors, from homes and cities to healthcare and industries. The proposed DEAC-IoT scheme can also be used to implement vehicle to vehicle secure communication in autonomous vehicles, VANETs and Internet of Vehicles scenario.
Socially, it can enhance trust in IoT technology, protect privacy, safeguard critical infrastructure, and promote economic and technological development—while ensuring security remains affordable even in resource-constrained environments.
In Industrial IoT (IIoT) Scenario: In industries where machines are connected via IoT (such as in factories), devices need to communicate securely to ensure the smooth running of production lines. The DEAC-IoT protocol could secure these communications, preventing industrial espionage or sabotage.
Future Research Plans
1. Design of group key authentication protocols for IoT devices communication.
2. Design of handover authentication protocols for Fog-enabled IoT devices communication.
3. Design of quantum safe authentication protocols for vehicle-to-vehicle communicationCollaborations:
1. Dr Sanjeev Kumar Dwivedi, Centre of Artificial Intelligence, Madhav Institute of Technology and Science (MITS), Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474005, India.
Continue reading →
2. Dr Taher Al-Shehari, Computer Skills, Department of Self-Development Skill, Common First Year Deanship, King Saud University, 11362, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
3. Dr Mohammed Kadrie, Computer Skills, Department of Self-Development Skill, Common First Year Deanship, King Saud University, 11362, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
4. Dr P Saravanan, Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore, India.
5. Dr Ruhul Amin, Department of Computer Science & Engineering, IIIT Naya Raipur, Naya Raipur 493661, Chhattisgarh, India
6. Dr Taha Alfakih, Department of Information Systems, College of Computer and Information Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11543, Saudi Arabia
7. Dr Hussain Alsalman, Department of Computer Science, College of Computer and Information Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11543, Saudi Arabia