Systems Theory Research Articles

Power dynamics in business relationships in a turbulent environment: focus on anticipated power consequences and value creation

PurposeI aimed to develop a conceptual model of power dynamics focused on an anticipated power consequences in business relationships in a context of high environmental turbulence. I also intended to discuss the theoretical significance of my findings and indicate future research directions.Design/methodology/approachConceptual article indicating future research directions.FindingsThe proposal of the conceptual model of power dynamics focusing on anticipated power consequences in business relationships.Research limitations/implicationsThe limitations of the presented model stem from the critique of the holistic view. My contribution lies in advancing our understanding of power dynamics in business relationships amid significant environmental change. I elucidate how transformative practices relate to power outcomes and value creation in these relationships.Practical implicationsThe model highlights the importance of a mindful approach to managing business relationships in a turbulent environment. It emphasizes considering expected power outcomes from activities and their impact on creating value in these relationships.Social implicationsThe proposed concept resonates with systems theory, which emphasizes how different levels of business relationships are interconnected. It enables the analysis of power dynamics at the individual level, such as employees, consumers and local communities. These groups often include the most vulnerable individuals impacted by relational business structures.Originality/valueThe focus on anticipated power consequences of transformative practices triggered by high environmental turbulences, while considering the impact of power distribution of relationship actors on the sharing of benefits and costs.

Qualitative analysis and modulation instability for the extended (3+1)-dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger equation with conformable derivative

The focus of the article studies the qualitative analysis and modulation instability for the extended (3+1)-dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger equation with conformable derivative. Firstly, the extended (3+1)-dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger equation with conformable derivative is transformed into two-dimensional planar dynamic system through complex exponential wave transformation. Secondly, phase portrait and its orbit of the system are analyzed through the theory of dynamical system. By using Maple software the phase portrait, Poincaré section and sensitivity analysis are compared and displayed. Finally, parameter conditions for stable systems are provided through modulation instability.

Context matters: Rethinking resource governance theories for Mongolian pastoral systems

Globally, rangelands face interacting pressures from climate, land-use, socio-economic and political changes, all of which threaten herder livelihoods and grassland health. Given these dynamics, it is often unclear which policies would best support sustainable land use and livelihoods in the future. There are multiple theories for how tenure, rules, social relations and environmental variability intersect to influence pastoral resource governance, but these have largely been developed based on empirical data from specific social and environmental contexts. Few studies have attempted to evaluate empirically how the factors driving pastoral management decisions might vary across a social-ecological gradient. In this work we attempt to reconcile the current diversity of theories around pastoral resource governance with an empirical dataset on household herd and pasture management decisions in Mongolia, where there is ongoing debate over proposed rangeland policies, including formalization of land tenure. We assess the relationship between theorized predictors of herder behavior (i.e. formal rights, formal rules, social capital, and environmental variability), and household-level management decisions about pastoral mobility and storage. We compare our findings from a survey of 760 households across four ecozones to predictions from pastoral resource governance theories to assess which theories best match the complex realities on the ground. We observed a continuum of de facto pastoral governance regimes that roughly map onto a social-ecological gradient defined by (i) resource variability and predictability, and (ii) the relative prevalence of formal rule-based vs. implicit norm-based governance. We find that rules, social capital, and forage availability are the strongest predictors of whether a household will reserve forage, with consistent effects across ecological zones. In contrast, social ties and environmental conditions most strongly predict mobility practices. While most households reserved pastures regardless of tenure status, those households who do not reserve pastures are more likely to lack formal use rights. Our findings reinforce the importance of avoiding “one size fits all” rangeland governance policies. We demonstrate that herders make decisions in response to environmental productivity and variability over space and time, and that social ties and mobility are critical for maintaining access to forage. This may explain why many herders remain skeptical of formal pasture tenure, which could restrict this flexibility. Policies that ensure herders’ collective rights to pasture through large-scale zoning rather than tenure could potentially achieve both secure pasture rights and maximum flexibility.

Quantitative Predictive Theories through Integrating Quantum, Statistical, Equilibrium, and Nonequilibrium Thermodynamics.

Today's thermodynamics is largely based on the combined law for equilibrium systems and statistical mechanics derived by Gibbs in 1873 and 1901, respectively, while irreversible thermodynamics for nonequilibrium systems resides essentially on the Onsager Theorem as a separate branch of thermodynamics developed in 1930s. Between them, quantum mechanics was invented and was quantitatively solved in terms of density functional theory (DFT) in 1960s. These three scientific domains operate based on different principles and are very much separated from each other. In analogy to the parable of the blind men and the elephant articulated by Perdew, they individually represent different portions of a complex system and thus are incomplete by themselves alone, resulting in the lack of quantitative agreement between their predictions and experimental observations. Over the last two decades, the author's group has developed a multiscale entropy approach (recently termed as zentropy theory) that integrates DFT-based quantum mechanics and Gibbs statistical mechanics and is capable of accurately predicting entropy and free energy of complex systems. Furthermore, in combination with the combined law for nonequilibrium systems developed by Hillert, the author developed the theory of cross phenomena beyond the phenomenological Onsager Theorem. The zentropy theory and theory of cross phenomena jointly provide quantitative predictive theories for systems from electronic to any observable scales as reviewed in the present work.

Impact of Divorce on Parent-Child Relationships

Purpose: The general objective of this study was to explore the impact of divorce on parent- child relationships. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the impact of divorce on parent- child relationships. Preliminary empirical review revealed that divorce significantly influenced these dynamics, often leading to challenges in communication, emotional bonding, and co-parenting. Children of divorced parents experienced various emotional and psychological difficulties, such as insecurity and anxiety, with the disruption of family routines exacerbating these issues. However, the consequences varied based on factors like child age, gender, and family functioning. Despite these challenges, many children showed resilience over time, with factors like parental warmth and effective communication buffering the negative effects. Overall, understanding these complexities allowed for the development of strategies to support families during the transition process, promoting positive outcomes for children and families. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Attachment theory, Family Systems theory and Social Learning theory may be used to anchor future studies on the impact divorce has on parent- child relationships. By integrating multiple theoretical perspectives such as attachment theory and family systems theory, researchers gained a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding divorce's effects on parent-child relationships. Evidence-based interventions, including parent education programs and family therapy, were recommended to support families during the divorce process. Moreover, policy reforms advocating for the protection of children's rights and access to supportive services were proposed. These recommendations aimed to enhance the well-being of children and families navigating the challenges of divorce, fostering healthier family dynamics and parent-child relationships.

Magnetoacoustic waves in spin-1/2 dense quantum degenerate plasma: nonlinear dynamics and dissipative effects

Abstract Within the confines of a two-fluid quantum magnetohydrodynamic model, the investigation of magnetoacoustic shock and solitary waves is conducted in an electron-ion magnetoplasma that considers electrons of spin 1/2. When the plasma system is nonlinearly investigated using the reductive perturbation approach, the Korteweg de Vries-Burgers (KdVB) equation is produced. Sagdeev’s potential is created, revealing the presence of solitary solutions. However, when dissipative terms are included, intriguing physical solutions can be obtained. The KdVB equation is further investigated using the phase plane theory of a planar dynamical system to demonstrate the existence of periodic and solitary wave solutions. Predicting several classes of traveling wave solutions is advantageous due to various phase orbits, which manifest as soliton-shock waves, and oscillatory shock waves. The presence of a magnetic field, the density of electrons and ions, and the kinematic viscosity significantly alter the properties of magnetoacoustic solitary and shock waves. Additionally, electric fields have been identified. The outcomes obtained here can be applied to studying the nature of magnetoacoustic waves that are observed in compact astrophysical environments, where the influence of quantum spin phenomena remains significant, and also in controlled laboratory plasma experiments.

Assessment of the Environmental Footprint of Various Food Production Systems

Purpose: This study sought to assess the environmental footprint of various food production systems. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the environmental footprint of various food production systems. Preliminary empirical review revealed that with a call for transformative changes to mitigate ecological impacts while ensuring food security and human well-being. Through a comprehensive analysis, significant variations in resource use and emissions were highlighted across different production methods. The study emphasized the interconnectedness between dietary choices, agricultural practices, and environmental outcomes, urging policymakers to enact evidence-based policies and agricultural stakeholders to adopt regenerative farming practices. Ultimately, the study served as a call to action for concerted efforts to transition towards a more sustainable and resilient food system, integrating ecological principles, social equity, and economic viability to promote harmony between human activities and the natural environment. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Systems theory, Ecological Economics and Agroecology models may be used to anchor future studies on the environmental footprint of various food production systems. The study made significant contributions to theory, practice, and policy in the realm of sustainable food production and environmental conservation. It advanced theoretical understanding by advocating for a systems-based approach to assessing environmental impacts and highlighting the importance of considering multiple dimensions of sustainability. In practice, the study recommended the adoption of agroecological approaches and the promotion of sustainable farming practices to mitigate environmental harm. Policy recommendations included the implementation of regulatory interventions and incentives to promote sustainability, while consumer education and international collaboration were emphasized for driving demand for sustainable food products and facilitating knowledge sharing. Lastly, the study underscored the importance of investment in research and innovation to drive continuous improvements in sustainable food production systems.

The Household Food Security Status of Food Assistance Programs and Food Security Initiatives

Purpose: The general objective of the study was to investigate the household food security status of food assistance programs and food security initiatives. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to household food security status and food assistance programs. Preliminary empirical review revealed that food assistance programs, including SNAP, WIC, and school meal programs, played a critical role in improving food security among vulnerable populations. However, it emphasized the importance of adopting a holistic approach to address underlying causes of food insecurity, such as poverty and systemic inequalities. Community-based initiatives and efforts to strengthen local food systems were identified as promising complements to traditional food assistance programs. Targeted interventions tailored to the unique needs of different population groups were also deemed essential. Overall, the study highlighted the need for coordinated efforts from various stakeholders to build resilient and equitable food systems and ensure access to nutritious food for all. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Determinants of Health theory, Systems theory and Capability Approach may be used to anchor future studies on household food security. The study provided valuable recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy in addressing food insecurity. It integrated theoretical frameworks such as the Social Determinants of Health (SDH) theory, highlighting the complex dynamics underlying food insecurity. Practically, it emphasized the importance of multi-sectoral approaches, community engagement, and participatory decision-making in program design and implementation. At the policy level, the study advocated for comprehensive strategies that prioritize food security as a fundamental human right, including strengthening and expanding existing food assistance programs, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and promoting evidence-based policy reforms. Overall, the study advanced understanding and action on food security by addressing systemic drivers, promoting collaborative practices, and advocating for policy changes.

How to create team design in tourism and hospitality organizations: Through team‐level autonomy and task interdependence

AbstractTeam‐based organizational structures have been widely adopted in tourism and hospitality firms. Based on socio‐technical systems theory, this study focused on two critical components of team design: team‐level autonomy and task interdependence. The impacts of these elements on team outcomes vary by context (e.g., organizations and task types). Exploration of these features' relationships with teamwork processes in tourism and hospitality settings is thus warranted. This study took a social process (i.e., team communication) as a mediating mechanism to explain team‐level organizational phenomena. A total of 312 responses from tourism and hospitality employees were collected through Qualtrics. Structural equation modeling using the R Lavaan package showed that team‐level autonomy and task interdependence were positively and indirectly related to team performance through team communication. Also, their interaction was positively associated with team outcomes. These findings contribute to the team effectiveness literature and provide tourism and hospitality organizations with practical guidance.

A kinetic theory approach to modeling prey–predator ecosystems with expertise levels: analysis, simulations and stability considerations

In this paper a kinetic modeling approach for an ecological system is proposed, based on the prey–predator structure in terms of individuals experience. Specifically, a system of nonlinear kinetic equations is formulated using standard tools. Both conservative and nonconservative events are considered since proliferative/destructive rates and an external force field occur. These results are compared to the ones of the classical theory of dynamical system to show their consistency. In addition to a first local analytical result, some numerical simulations are performed. The results thus obtained ensure that the kinetic model behaves in a way consistent with other similar ecological models formulated by dynamical systems, involving ordinary differential equations with lumped dependent variables. For each simulation, stationary solutions are shown. Moreover, oscillations appear for some values of the parameters of the ecological system, and this suggests that bifurcations may appear.

Sliding dynamics of a Filippov ecological system with nonlinear threshold control and pest resistance

By applying the integrated pest management strategy to address pest control problems, Filippov pest-natural enemy systems have been extensively studied. However, little attention has been paid to pest changing rate and pest resistance in these studies. Therefore, this paper proposes a complex and more realistic Filippov pest-natural enemy system with curved discontinuity boundary by considering Beddington–DeAngelis functional response and pest resistance, as well as incorporating pest changing rate in the threshold control index. Based on the relevant theory of the Filippov system, we analyze a sextic equation and obtain that the proposed Filippov system can have at most six sliding segments. By using qualitative techniques, we discuss the sliding segment and pseudo-equilibrium bifurcations. Numerically, we investigate the local and global sliding bifurcations. It can be detected that one new local sliding bifurcation occurs, which could be called the pseudo-Hopf bifurcation but differs from the traditional pseudo-Hopf bifurcation as it involves two sliding segments with opposite stabilities and generates a sliding limit cycle. We also discover two interesting global sliding bifurcations with novel bifurcation processes, which may be termed triple limit cycle bifurcations as they both relate to the appearance of three nested limit cycles.

A nonlinear instability theory for a wave system inducing transition in spiral Poiseuille flow

This paper is on the transition scenario of the class of spiral Poiseuille flows that results from the onset, propagation and evolution of disturbances according to mechanisms of Tollmien-Schlichting, and Taylor, acting simultaneously. The problem is approached from the fundamental point of view of following the growth of initially infinitesimally small disturbances into their nonlinear stage when the effect of Reynolds stresses makes itself felt. To this end a set of Generalised Nonlinear Orr–Sommerfeld, Squire and Continuity Equations is set up that enables accounting for effects of growth of initially infinitesimally small disturbances into nonlinearities through a rational iteration scheme. The present proposal closely follows the method put forth for this pupose in 1971 by Stuart and Stewartson in their seminal papers on the influence of nonlinear effects during transition in the bench-mark flows of the class of spiral Poiseuille flows; which are the plane-walled channel flow and the flow in the gap between concentric circular cylinders (Taylor instability).The basic feature of the proposed method is the introduction of an Amplitude Parameter and of a slow/long- scale variable through which the effects of growing disturbances are accounted for within the framework of a rational iteration scheme. It is shown that the effect of amplified disturbances is capturable, as in the bench-mark flows, by a Ginzburg–Landau type differential equation for an Amplitude Function in terms of suitably defined slow/long-scale variables. However, the coefficients in this equation are numbers that depend upon the flow parameters of the spiral Poiseuille flow, which are a suitably defined Reynolds Number, the Swirl Number, and the geometric parameter of transverse curvature inherent in the flow geometry. The Ginzburg–Landau equation derived hints at the drastic changes in flow pattern that the spiral Poiseuille flow in transition may undergo, as its Swirl Number is taken from very small to very large values.

A decision fusion-based method for global sensitivity analysis of complicated experiments

In real world, the relationship between experimental input and output has become more and more complex, which brings great challenges to the sensitivity analysis. This paper proposes a decision fusion based global sensitivity analysis method for complicated experiments, which not only provides quantitative evluation of the input factor influence on experimental results, but also mines the correlation and form the explicit criteria in IF-THEN fomation for further guidance. The theory of decision information system and continuous attribute discretization is presented first for transforming the experimental input and output into a decision table. In order to calculate the sensitivity of the factors and extract valid correlation criterions between conditional attributes and decision attributes simultaneously, the discrimination matrx is utilized for attribute reduction. Then a sensitivity analysis method based on decision fusion is proposed by organically assembling experiment design, attribute discretization, the discrimization matrix, and attribute reduction. Finally, the effectiveness and practicality of the proposed method were verified by the application of sensitivity analysis in hypersonic vehicle re-entry trajectory experiment.

Dynamic Modeling and Control Design Based on Singular Perturbation Theory for High-Order Wireless Power Transfer System

Dynamic Modeling and Control Design Based on Singular Perturbation Theory for High-Order Wireless Power Transfer System

On the Computation of Floquet Multipliers for Periodic Solution in Piecewise-smooth Dynamical System

The floquet multiplier is one of the most important indicators for the stability and bifurcation analysis for periodic solutions in nonlinear dynamical systems. Different from the well-established Floquet theory for the perturbation systems of smooth systems, much less has been understood in its counterpart for non-smooth systems. Here in this paper, we will report an unusual and interesting feature of the Floquet multipliers for piecewise-smooth dynamical systems. When the initial condition of the periodic solution is located at the boundary splitting the solution domain, the multipliers would be calculated falsely in certain circumstances, respectively, by a saltation matrix method or a direct numerical integration for the perturbation system. We elucidate the origin of the fake multipliers through perturbation analysis, and furthermore suggest an effective manner to avoid the miscalculation. This finding would be of fundamental significance to both the real-world applications and theory establishment of the Floquet theory in non-smooth systems

Kinetic theory of ultrasubsonic fermion systems and applications to flat-band magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene transport

Kinetic theory of ultrasubsonic fermion systems and applications to flat-band magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene transport

Graphite-N reinforced sludge biochar electrode: A experimental and DFT theoretical analysis of efficient evolution and in-situ utilization of H2O2

Rational reuse of municipal sludge to produce electro-Fenton electrode can not only save resources, but also produce superior peroxide and degradation pollutants simultaneously. Herein, a novel electro-Fenton electrode derived from sludge biochar loaded on Ni foam (SBC@Ni) was constructed via high temperature pyrolysis and chemical coating for efficient H2O2 evolution and pollutant degradation. Systematic experiments and density functional theory calculations (DFT calculation) explained that the production of graphite C and graphite N during high-temperature pyrolysis of municipal sludge can greatly enhance the oxygen reduction reaction of SBC@Ni electrode and promote the evolution of H2O2. And the hybrid heterojunctions, such as FeP, also played a key role in electrocatalytic processes. Notably, the electrode still exhibited excellent performance after 1000 linear scans and 12 hours of continuous current stimulation, which demonstrated the excellent stability of the electrode. Moreover, SBC@Ni electrode can not only effectively oxidize 4-chlorophenol through the electro-Fenton effect, but also fully mineralize organic matter, indicating promising environmental application. The free radical quenching experiment also revealed that the ·OH is the main active species for 4-CP degradation in SBC@Ni electro-Fenton system.

(r, Q) stock replenishment in multi-mode distribution systems with uncertain delivery channels and adaptive channel allocation

To mitigate the impact of uncertainty in goods distribution systems, multiple channels and transportation modes may be used. In this paper, a discrete-time model of supplier-depot interaction involving multiple channels of goods relocation is constructed using the concepts of dynamic systems theory. The considered class of systems faces two types of uncertainty: a priori unknown variations of market demand and unpredictable changes of lead-time delay, different for each channel. The variation pattern is arbitrary. As a control mechanism, the nonlinear (r, Q) replenishment policy (provide Q units of goods when the stock falls below r) is considered. As opposed to the previous studies, the policy is demonstrated robust to both sources of uncertainty acting simultaneously using a formal mathematical argument. Moreover, it is shown how to select the policy parameters to obtain full demand realization, thus eliminating backorders, irrespective of the pattern of delay and demand fluctuations. It is also discussed how to assign the depot capacity so that emergency storage will not be required even though deliveries from a few periods arrive concurrently, or out of order. In addition, a new channel allocation strategy, dynamically adapting itself to the channel temporal characteristics, is developed. As evidenced in the tests, the proposed adaptive strategy, by reducing the waiting time for the lot reassembly at the depot, allows for holding cost reduction by several percent with respect to a static strategy.

Fluorescence visualization of CO2-responsive phase transfer materials targeting at the heterogeneous interfacial reactions in advanced oxidation of naphthenic acid in wastewater

Treatment of naphthenic acids (NAs) in wastewater is necessary due to its high toxicity and difficult degradation. In the heterogeneous Fenton-like advanced oxidation of organic pollutant system, the insufficient accessibility of oxidizing agent and NAs greatly hamper the reaction efficiency. CO2-responsive phase transfer materials derived from polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based deep eutectic solvents were specific targeted at the immiscible-binary phase system. The NAs oxidative degradation process was optimized including the kinds of catalyst (Molecular weight of PEG, constitute of DESs, and dosage.), temperature, flow rate of CO2, et al. With the help of fluorescence properties of catalyst, the hydrophilic-hydrophobic interaction was visual-monitored and further studied. The amphipathic property of PEG-200/Sodium persulfate/Polyether amine 230 (PEA230) greatly reduced the aqueous/organic phase transfer barrier between sodium persulfate and NAs (up to 84 %), thus accreting oxidation rate. The surface tension decreased from 35.364 mN/m to 28.595 mN/m. To control the reaction rate, the CO2 respond structure of amido played an important role. In addition, the interfacial transfer intermediates and oxidation pathways were also explored by nuclear magnetic resonance, flourier transform infrared spectroscopy, surface tension, and radical inhibition experiments. The mechanism of advanced oxidation of NAs catalyzed by CO2-responsive phase transfer catalyst was proposed, which would made up for the deficiency of the system theory of heterogeneous chemical oxidation of organic pollutants.

Well-being and empowerment perceptions in a sudden shift to working from home

In the literature on the antecedents and mediators of employee well-being, there is little or no acknowledgement of sudden changes in the social and environmental context in which perceptions of well-being are formed. Contextual influences are rarely so impactful and unexpected as those associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. To continue operating within lockdown restrictions, many organizations, apart from those unable or unwilling to initiate such changes, abruptly adopted a work from home (WFH) or hybrid working pattern. These circumstances raise novel questions about the influence of impactful, unanticipated contextual factors on employee well-being outcomes. To address these questions in the context of a shift to WFH, we tested a model adapted from aspects of Event Systems Theory (EST) and the Psychology of Working Theory (PWT). Central to our theoretical adaptation was a unique perspective on PWT “decent work” perceptions based on principles of empowerment. In a study of 337 employees during the lockdown period, we applied a Bayesian multilevel model to investigate the contrast between in-lockdown perceptions relative to current pre-lockdown perceptions. Results suggested the contextual shift to WFH related negatively to relative perceptions of well-being, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment. Empowerment significantly mediated all well-being outcomes. Organizational support, neuroticism, and home readiness related directly to empowerment and indirectly to well-being outcomes via empowerment. We discuss how sudden contextual changes interacted with relationships observed in our model, and how our findings progress a context-responsive adaptation of EST and PWT in the new world of WFH.