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Time-based theorizing has recognized the importance of temporal complexity but tends to reduce it to tensions and conflicts among but two static temporal demands. We recon-ceptualize temporal complexity as a dynamic interplay of multiple—that is, more than two—divergent temporal demands. Based on this reconceptualization, we develop a theory of organizational Eigenzeit, which illuminates how organizations “carve out” a time of their own amid temporal complexity. We propose a process model that explains how organizations navigate distinct constellations of temporal complexity by enacting varying degrees of temporal uncoupling and differentiation. Our model enables us to derive four generic modes of Eigenzeit—entrained, ambitemporal, agile, and pluritemporal—and theorize their characteristics and implications. We argue that grand challenges, such as climate change, require organizations to shift to more advanced modes of Eigenzeit, and detail why such a shift might be difficult to enact. Our paper contributes to time-based theorizing by specifying the distinct nature of temporal complexity and redirecting extant research toward examining different modes of Eigenzeit and their implied dynamics and consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Food insecurity reduces people's chances to live healthy and active lives and places a significant burden on healthcare systems. Levels have significantly increased in the UK since 2010, due to the impact of austerity and, more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic and the cost of living crisis. This increase is projected to continue. Households with children are amongst those at highest risk for food insecurity. A variety of community food organisations (CFOs), such as community gardens, community kitchens, food banks and social markets, have been essential in responding to rising food insecurity, including providing emergency food and other types of support such as welfare advice. However, beyond food banks, little is known about differing approaches to food aid in the UK, including how these organisations provide additional services to address the underlying issue that has led someone to seek emergency food support. Aim: To understand what approaches used by community food organisations are most likely to help prevent the need for emergency food in two multicultural communities in the North (Bradford) and South (Tower Hamlets, London) of England, with high levels of ill-health and food insecurity. Research design, setting and participants: This is a mixed methods study informed by complex systems theory. Methods include participatory systems mapping and qualitative longitudinal research. We will map the availability and type of help with food, and produce a typology of CFO approaches, using a survey, multiple local and national participatory system mapping workshops and interviews with local and national stakeholders (WP1). Then, we will conduct a longitudinal qualitative research using a 'researcher in residence' approach in up to 10 CFOs purposively sampled to reflect the diversity of prevention strategies adopted by CFOs. Research will include: a) a 12 month ethnographic study; b) three waves of 'go along' interviews with up to 35 families; and c) a visual study where the same families are invited to share photos and videos about their food thoughts via Indeemo research app. Outputs and dissemination: Outputs will include: a) a toolkit on CFOs to support local and national policy and implementation decisions, b) a travelling exhibition with visual representations of people's lived experiences c) publications in academic journals, d) blog posts, e) public talks, and f) policy briefs. Findings will help decision makers to invest in the most accessible, beneficial and culturally appropriate resources for communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The preference for simple explanations, known as the parsimony principle, has long guided the development of scientific theories, hypotheses, and models. Yet recent years have seen a number of successes in employing highly complex models for scientific inquiry (e.g., for 3D protein folding or climate forecasting). In this paper, we reexamine the parsimony principle in light of these scientific and technological advancements. We review recent developments, including the surprising benefits of modeling with more parameters than data, the increasing appreciation of the context-sensitivity of data and misspecification of scientific models, and the development of new modeling tools. By integrating these insights, we reassess the utility of parsimony as a proxy for desirable model traits, such as predictive accuracy, interpretability, effectiveness in guiding new research, and resource efficiency. We conclude that more complex models are sometimes essential for scientific progress, and discuss the ways in which parsimony and complexity can play complementary roles in scientific modeling practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Corpus Linguistics And Second Language Acquisition: Perspectives, Issues, And Findings" by Xiaofei Lu explores the intersection of corpus linguistics and second language acquisition (SLA) research. The book delves into various aspects of SLA, including L2 use, processing, production, and development, using empirical studies and corpus-based methods. It offers insights into the impact of learner-related and task-related variables on L2 learners' language skills, providing a valuable resource for those interested in corpus-based SLA research across different languages. The book also highlights the potential for future research in improving corpus representativeness, developing advanced methodologies, and enhancing corpus analytical tools. [Extracted from the article]

Through this creative-relational inquiry, we pursue a radically new way of conceptualizing, researching, communicating, and practicing health and health care in contemporary times. We write to reimagine what an alternative paradigm that is at once humane, democratic, accessible, inclusive, generative, and resolutely open to diversity in its many forms might look and feel like. We begin by presenting the script of an autoethnographic film that explores health, creativity, and physical activity through an arts-based approach that incorporates moving image, spoken word, soundscape, music, and song. Next, we offer two responses to the film, which embody emotional and empathetic engagement, relational commitment, moral and ethical sensibility, and careful scholarly reflection to extend and develop our inquiry in innovative interdisciplinary directions. Finally, we draw on recent developments in complexity theory and environmental activism to propose a new way to understand and practice health care within complex ecologies of health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construction industry faces a significant challenge due to the absence of a well-established financial classification system for quality, leading to quality issues. Among the various quality management (QM) techniques available, the cost of quality (COQ) method is utilized to address these concerns. However, traditional COQ assumptions are static and do not reflect the adaptability required in modern QM for the construction industry, particularly due to hidden factors (HFs). These HFs play diverse roles in shaping the COQ system. The lack of a quantifiable COQ for monitoring quality costs impedes the adoption of the COQ framework within the construction industry. This study addresses these gaps by refining the traditional COQ categories and predicting the relationship between visible factors (VFs) and HFs through the lens of complexity theory. To fill this gap, a questionnaire survey was conducted with 142 experts specializing in QM within the Indian construction industry. Using SmartPLS 4.0, a hypothetical model was constructed to uncover the relationship between COQ categories. The results underscore the significant influence of profession on COQ, the influence of VFs and HFs on COQ, and the influence of COQ categories on achieving optimal quality. This study makes a substantial contribution to existing knowledge by forecasting COQ behavior and proposing future research directions. Practical Applications: The practical implications of this study on the body of knowledge are significant, as the study aims to bridge a prominent gap in the current literature by delving into the quantitative exploration of the relationship between VFs and HFs affecting COQ within the construction industry. This research introduces a fresh perspective by investigating 22 VFs and HFs, a relatively new endeavor in the construction field. Meanwhile, the findings hold significant value for construction practitioners and firms investing in optimizing COQ as this knowledge base could facilitate the construction experts to refine their strategies, policies, and plans, integrating measures designed to proactively address VF- and HF-related challenges. This proactive approach not only fosters improved QM practices but also cultivates a culture of continuous improvement within construction projects. Moving forward, it is imperative for construction and consultancy organizations to integrate these findings into their QM strategies, leveraging insights to optimize resource allocation and enhance overall quality performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fundamental difference between neural networks containing and not containing feedback between elements is analyzed. It is shown that in the first of these cases, quantitative relationships describing the functioning of the neural network can be obtained based on an analogy with the theory of noise-resistant codes. In the second case, an analogy with electronic circuits that form memory cells (triggers) is valid. It is shown that feedback between elements of even the simplest neural networks can lead to the appearance of multidimensional hysteresis, when, with the same state of inputs, the system can be in several qualitatively different states, the transition between which can be abrupt. In this case, the state of the neural network outputs depends not only on the current state of its inputs, but also on the path along which this state was formed. The results obtained are used for the philosophical substantiation of a new approach to the interpretation of complex systems of various natures, which are considered analogs of neural networks. According to it, a system that can store and processing information should be considered "complex". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to investigate the spatial distribution patterns of passing and receiving locations during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in different match stages, playing positions and team possession types. Eighteen types of spatial entropy were proposed to evaluate the heterogeneity of passing and receiving locations in 64 matches. T-tests of these entropies were made between teams at the group and knockout stages, and between distinct playing positions. The K-means clustering of each team's ball-possession per match was employed to divide all matches into two categories, and their differences in entropies were then analysed using one-way ANOVA. Results showed that the teams at the group and knockout stages had significant differences only in goalkeeper entropy (ES = 0.368). The spatial entropy of the goalkeeper exhibited significant differences in comparison to the other positions (ES: −6.71 ~ -4.69). Low ball-possession teams were significantly lower in 8 types of spatial entropies (ES: −1.02 ~ -0.41) compared to their high ball-possession counterparts. Furthermore, only two types of spatial entropies (ES: −0.58 ~ -0.54) differed significantly in the comparison between high and low ball-possession teams. These findings may provide coaches with guidance for implementing targeted defensive strategies and enhancing the team's passing performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interaction between communication and coordination is central to mobilizing response operations, but the processes vary under critical time constraints, creating disparities in complex operations in practice. To explore conditions that facilitate or hinder the interaction between these processes, we identify networks of organizations engaged in communication and coordination that functioned in response to the 6 February 2023, Kahramanmaras earthquakes in Turkey. Framed in the theory of complex adaptive systems, this study focuses on decision-making among organizations that operated during this event and the flow of information within and among organizations that guided collective action. Using exploratory case-study methods, we undertook four tasks to: (1) characterize the context in which the earthquakes occurred—public awareness, policies, and practice to reduce seismic risk; (2) identify technical communication networks that functioned during the first 3 weeks of response operations; (3) identify organizational coordination networks and flow of information that guided technical networks, including principal nodes of connection and missing links in the process; and (4) identify gaps between knowledge and action as organizations struggled to operate in a disaster-degraded context. Study findings revealed limits in both technical and organizational networks and offer insights into how these sociotechnical networks could be scaled and strengthened to function more effectively in large-scale, extreme events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Luis H. Favela’s (2024) The ecological brain: Unifying the sciences of brain, body, and environment uses complex systems theory’s methods, concepts and theories to illustrate the possibility of integrating neuroscience with ecological psychology, in spite of the antipathy these fields ostensibly have for one another. While this “NeuroEcological Nexus Theory” (NExT) is a very promising framework to achieve this primary goal, I argue that it ultimately needs more than just Embodied, Embedded (or Ecological) cognition. Favela’s secondary goals of having “œbroad applicability to other mind sciences” and eventually also explaining “real” cognition beyond perception-action coordination, can’t be achieved without incorporating the other aspects of so-called “E-Cognition”; especially Enactive and Extended/Extensive cognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the reconstruction of professional identity among three experienced language teacher educators through collaboration in pluralistic approaches. Framing identity within a narrative-based understanding and exploring the interactional aspects of collaboration through the Complex Dynamic Systems Theory (CDST) lens, the study moves beyond traditional narrative inquiries in teacher education. Employing an autobiographical narrative approach, the study metaphorically represents professional identity reconstruction as complex dynamic systems. Grounded in autobiographical accounts from a year-long international collaboration on developing teacher competencies for pluralistic approaches, the study identifies emerging themes such as the role of peer collaboration, digital tools, and contextual influences in identity transformation. Findings suggest implications for professional development through collaborative and international networks in language education. The study contributes to understanding language educator identity as a dynamic, ongoing interpretive process in collaborative settings, offering insights for teacher education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The representation of positive polynomials on a semi-algebraic set in terms of sums of squares is a central question in real algebraic geometry, which the Positivstellensatz answers. In this paper, we study the effective Putinar's Positivestellensatz on a compact basic semi-algebraic set S and provide a new proof and new improved bounds on the degree of the representation of positive polynomials. These new bounds involve a parameter ε measuring the non-vanishing of the positive function, the constant c and exponent L of a Łojasiewicz inequality for the semi-algebraic distance function associated to the inequalities g = (g 1 , ... , g r) defining S. They are polynomial in c and ε − 1 with an exponent depending only on L. We analyse in details the Łojasiewicz inequality when the defining inequalities g satisfy the Constraint Qualification Condition. We show that, in this case, the Łojasiewicz exponent L is 1 and we relate the Łojasiewicz constant c with the distance of g to the set of singular systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is focused on formation tracking control of multi-agent systems in a leader–follower setting. The objective is to introduce control algorithms to steer a team of mobile agents into a desired, moving geometrical pattern while the agents are unaware of their own and other agents' velocity information during the entire process. We introduce a formation control law under which the agents asymptotically shape a desired geometrical pattern and track a constant reference velocity. Another control law is then introduced to address the case where the reference velocity is time-varying. Both control laws are based on the complex Laplacian approach and do not require agents' velocity information. The convergence of these algorithms are proved and their performance are examined via numerical examples. Simulation results verify the outperformance of the proposed control laws compared to the rival control schemes in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

If "theory of mind" is conceived as reasoning in a strict sense, then it can be said to be useful only at certain times; however, this leaves the rest of social cognition hardly comprehensible. If "theory of mind" is used instead to refer to a mentalist ontology and the consequent awareness that we ourselves and the others function on mental states, then we need new approaches that explain the flow of social experience. To illustrate these points, we outline the general conceptual framework that underlies most empirical studies of theory of mind and discuss their pros and cons; then, we discuss the Theory of Mind Assessment Scale, a tool developed to investigate the complexity of theory of mind, which adopts a different perspective and has been successfully tested on numerous populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between death and literature is as close as it is complex. This complexity is increased if the category of gender is taken into account, since the binary gender oppositions inherent to our patriarchal cultures are also reflected there: While authorship, which continues to be aligned with ingeniousness, divinity, uniqueness, and—in this case—immortality, implies certain androcentrism, death is related to femininity. Cristina Rivera Garza breaks with these traditions and offers, through her multifaceted work, new ways of thinking about authorship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transit-oriented development (TOD) has been widely adopted in urban planning to alleviate traffic congestion, urban sprawl, and other problems. The TOD metro station area, as a dynamic and open spatial system, presents typical complex features. To improve urban planning by understanding the complex features of metro station areas, this study proposes a comprehensive evaluation method using complex adaptive system theory (CAS) to assess space efficiency and the use of an evaluation method like COWA (continuous ordered weighted averaging) operator and cloud model to show efficiency. Factors include external relevance, internal coordination, and environmental adaptation. This study uses Museum Station of Harbin Railway Transportation as the case study, and the results show that the space efficiency of Harbin's TOD metro station areas are lacking in internal coordination and environmental adaptation. The proposed evaluation method not only identifies areas of space inefficiencies in urban rail transit station areas but also provides valuable insights for informed decision-making and future urban development initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although suicide is complex and heterogeneous, most suicide theories assume that suicidal urges occur primarily in the context of extreme emotional distress. Newer models of suicide based on complex systems theory propose greater heterogeneity in suicidal experiences across individuals and groups, such that some, but not all, suicidal thoughts, urges, and behaviors are associated with extreme negative affect. The present study investigated individual differences in affective states experienced during suicidal urges among 138 adults recruited from the community; 81 (59.1 %) owned handguns and 57 (41.6 %) did not. Participants self-reported their current affect and urge to kill themselves 6 times per day for 28 consecutive days via ecological momentary assessment. Positive and negative affect ratings varied significantly during suicidal urges. The association of positive and negative affect with suicidal urges significantly varied within and between handgun owners and non-owners. Results suggest suicidal urges are characterized by high affective heterogeneity. • Little is known about the range of affect experienced during suicidal states • Affect and suicidal urges were assessed repeatedly using ecological momentary assessment • Affect during suicidal urges ranged considerably across individuals • The relationship of affect and suicidal urges also ranged considerably • The relationship of affect and suicidal urges was weaker among handgun owners [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complex systems often operate in equilibriums that can be disrupted under specific conditions, driving the system to undergo an irreversible phase transition (aka tipping point) into a new equilibrium. Disruptive technology, as introduced in the book Innovator's Dilemma, is a new emerging technology that can successfully displace incumbent technologies and push the market through phase transition into a new equilibrium. In this paper, the authors model the market disruption caused by a disruptive technology as a complex system, with dynamics that show a phase transition or tipping point, after which the system shifts into a new equilibrium aiming at assessing the success or failure of a disruptive technology. The purpose of this study is to mathematically model a tipping point measure of complex networks and a theoretical framework for disruptive technology dynamics. A predator–prey model is used to emulate the behavior of a disruptive technology versus an incumbent technology, and a resilience index is integrated to measure the tipping point in the market where the disruptive technology will overtake the incumbent technology. This methodology is applied to a historical case study of film versus digital versus cell phone cameras, demonstrating the application of this methodology. The study's contribution can be applied to both systems engineering and disruptive innovation management. The proposed approach can help stakeholders assess the impact of a potential new disruptive technology and use the resulting resilience index as a measurement for adjusting technology requirements and systems management approaches to achieve a desired outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "Translanguaging: A view from the South" discusses the concept of translanguaging as a natural and common practice in multilingual societies like India. It challenges the restrictions imposed by Northern frameworks on language practices, emphasizing the importance of accessing entire linguistic repertoires for effective communication and learning. The article also highlights the differences between translanguaging and codeswitching theories, arguing that translanguaging offers a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to understanding language use. Overall, the authors advocate for a deeper exploration of translanguaging's implications for classroom practices and encourage further research in this area. [Extracted from the article]

Research into L3 phonological acquisition has grown in the past decade, yet perceptual studies remain scarce. Existing studies report complex interactions between the phonetic categories of multilinguals' L1, L2 and L3, depending on investigated feature and stage of L3 learning. This small-scale study, grounded in Complex Dynamic Systems Theory, examines the development of coda obstruent perception in seven beginner learners of Polish as an L3 (aged 21–39), with German as their L1 and English as their L2. Over ten months of instructed L3 learning, participants were tested four times using a timed forced-choice goodness task in both L2 and L3. Additionally, three participants provided monthly data between the second and fourth testing. Analyses across the sample revealed a competitive relationship between L2 and L3 perception, with L2 accuracy declining as L3 accuracy improved. Individual data, however, indicated more varied patterns: while one learner followed the overall trend, another exhibited decreasing accuracy in both their L2 and L3, and the third maintained accurate L2 perception alongside more accurate yet increasingly variable L3 perception. These findings highlight the value of analyzing both overall trends and individual data to better understand multilingual speech perception development, and suggest that, with growing L3 experience, the newly learnt L3 may influence L2 perception of a phonological process shared in the L1 and marked in the L2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proficiency in literacy provides an essential foundation for citizens to participate fully and effectively in society. Research highlights a strong correlation between frequent reading and strong literacy outcomes for students and emphasises the benefits of a Reading for Pleasure (RfP) pedagogy on student reading motivation and attainment. As teachers are responsible for students' literate development, the ability to teach literacy and the development of a literate identity thus form integral components of initial teacher education. There are studies revealing the important connection between teachers' literate identities and their students' reading engagement and literacy outcomes; however, less is known about the formation of pre-service teachers' literate identities. This case study sought to investigate the impact of pre-service teacher engagement with Reading for Pleasure practices as they reflected on their literate identities. During the study, four student teachers in their final year of a Bachelor of Education (Primary) degree in an urban university in NSW, Australia, met weekly for six weeks to engage with Reading for Pleasure practices. Data were collected through participant observation notes, focus group discussions, and a questionnaire completed at the start and the end of the study. This study was informed with a consideration of complexity theory, and an analysis was made of participant's reflections on RfP, as expressed through the intersecting systems within which initial teacher education is situated. Framed by the understanding that knowledge is socially constructed, this paper outlines how participants found benefit in Reading for Pleasure in forming their literate identities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face complex systemic challenges in managing digital transformation while pursuing innovation in an increasingly interconnected business environment. This study adopts a systems theory perspective to investigate how digitalization enhances Innovation Performance by examining the dynamic interrelationships among digital adoption, digital drive, digital culture, and Innovation Performance. Through an empirical analysis of 201 Chinese SMEs using PLS-SEM, IPMA, and ANFIS approaches, we reveal that digital drive fully mediates the relationship between digital adoption and Innovation Performance, highlighting the systemic nature of digital transformation processes. Digital culture emerges as a critical moderator, positively influencing the relationships between digital adoption and digital drive, as well as between digital drive and Innovation Performance. These findings demonstrate how different elements of digital transformation form an integrated system where components interact to produce innovation outcomes. This study contributes to systems theory by illuminating the complex interdependencies in digital transformation and offers practical implications for managing systemic change in SMEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complexity theory (CT) refers to a collection of concepts and heuristics that can be used to study the developments emerging from interactions between phenomena, actors, and events. CT has increasingly been utilized in the study of public administration and policy. However, there is no comprehensive analysis of empirical or other research focused on the functioning of political-administrative phenomena applying CT. This article reports the results of a systematic literature review demonstrating how CT has been applied in empirical research in different stages of the policy cycle: policy preparation, implementation, evaluation, and maintenance. The study reveals empirical research utilizing CT offers practical implications that can be categorized into four themes: enabling leadership, leveraging experimentation, the holistic perspective, and the humble approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Revealing geological environment resilience (GER) under seawater intrusion (SWI) hazards is a prerequisite for solving groundwater resource depletion, land salinization, and ecological degradation in coastal cities. This study applies the resilience design approach based on urban complex adaptive systems theory to understand the impact of SWI on the geological environment. Taking SWI as the research object, the GER evaluation method under SWI disaster was established by selecting five elastic indexes: disturbance intensity, geological environment vulnerability, stress resistance, recovery, and adaptability. This method is used to evaluate the GER level of the coastal areas of Shenzhen in recent years under the impact of SWI hazards. The study found that there is a negative correlation between the intensity of disturbance and precipitation amount. The vulnerability is greater the closer the distance to the coastline and the shallower the depth of bedrock burial. Resistance is composed of early warning ability and disaster prevention ability, and the result is 10.07, which belongs to the medium level. The recovery is 1.49, which is at a relatively high level, indicating a high capacity for restoration ability. The adaptability increased from 3.03 to 3.13, so that the area of seawater intrusion is becoming smaller. GER is affected by precipitation amount and depth of bedrock burial; the greater the precipitation and the shallower the bedrock burial, the lower the GER. Precipitation amount significantly impacts the SWI situation in the eastern coastal area of Shenzhen. In the central region, the impact of precipitation on GER is less significant. However, in the western region, the depth of bedrock burial primarily affects GER. Compared to completely weathered granite, Pleistocene fluvial plain sediments are more susceptible to SWI effects in freshwater environments. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the impact of SWI on the geological environment in coastal areas, providing decision-makers with the necessary knowledge to develop targeted and effective governance and prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid density functionals, such as B3LYP and PBE0, have achieved remarkable success by substantially improving over their parent methods, namely Hartree-Fock and the generalized gradient approximation, and generally outperforming the second-order Møller-Plesset perturbation theory (MP2) that is more expensive. Here, we extend the linear scheme of hybrid multiconfiguration pair-density functional theory (HMC-PDFT) by incorporating a cross-entropy ingredient to balance the description of static and dynamic correlation effects, leading to a consistent improvement on both exchange and correlation energies. The B3LYP-like translated on-top functional (tB4LYP) developed along this line not only surpasses the accuracy of its parent methods, the complete active space self-consistent field (CASSCF) and the original MC-PDFT functionals (tBLYP and tB3LYP), but also outperforms the widely used complete active space second-order perturbation theory (CASPT2). Remarkably, while remaining satisfactory for general purpose, tB4LYP shows superior accuracy for challenging cases like the Cr2 dissociation and the associated low-lying vibrational energies, the ethylene torsional rotation and the ethyne diabatic colinear dissociations, with the significantly lower computational cost than CASPT2. A balanced description of static and dynamic correlation effects has long been a challenge for most density functional methods. Here, the authors proposed a new hybrid multi configuration density functional theory method that is shown to give satisfactory results for general purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The editorial "Something Is Rotten in the State of Redox" published in the journal "Antioxidants" explores the controversial topic of antioxidants in the realm of Life Sciences. The authors discuss the varying perspectives on the health benefits of antioxidants, highlighting debates and studies that question their efficacy. The Special Issue aims to address criticisms and complexities surrounding antioxidants, delving into oxidative stress, redox properties, and their impact on health and disease through various scientific lenses. The contributions in the issue offer insights into the semantic, molecular, and physiological aspects of antioxidants, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of this ongoing scientific debate. [Extracted from the article]

Recent studies have revealed new complexity in Earth's mantle, challenging the notion that this region is uneventful. Geophysicists have identified a mysterious new mantle layer and observed intricate flow patterns that were previously unknown. These findings suggest that the middle mantle transition zone at 1050 kilometers' depth may play a crucial role in shaping Earth's interior. Researchers are using advanced techniques, such as machine learning and experimental studies, to better understand the dynamics of the mantle and its impact on geological processes. [Extracted from the article]

The Managing Board of the journal Applicable Algebra in Engineering, Communication & Computing is calling for papers for a Special Issue dedicated to the memory of Joos Heintz. The topics of interest include algebraic complexity theory, computational methods in algebraic and diophantine geometry, and symbolic algorithms in linear and non-linear algebra. The submission deadline is April 30, 2025, with publication online in 2026 and in hardcopy in early 2026. All papers must be original and not simultaneously submitted elsewhere, following specific submission guidelines provided by the journal. [Extracted from the article]

Infodynamics is the study of how information behaves and changes within a system during its development. This study investigates the insights that informational analysis can provide regarding the ramifications predicted by constructal design. First, infodynamic neologisms informature , defined as a measure of the amount of information in indeterminate physical systems, and infotropy – contextualized informature representing the degree of transformation of indeterminate physical systems – are introduced. Flow architectures can be designed using either symmetric or asymmetric branching. The infodynamic analysis of symmetric branching revealed diminishing returns in information content, demonstrating that informature serves as a measure of diversity. These findings align with the principle of "few large and many small, but not too many," which is consistent with higher thermofluid performance. The Performance Scaled Svelteness Ψ expresses the ability of the flow architecture to promote thermofluid performance. By contextualizing the informature with Ψ , a performance infotropy that quantifies the degree of transformation associated with the link between thermofluid performance and diversity in the ramified flow structure is obtained. A predicted growth and decay effect with increasing branching levels leads to a local maximum, highlighting that the evolutionary direction of the ramifications is inversely proportional to the scale of the environment in which the flow structure develops. Assuming an evolutionary trend toward maximum infodynamic complexity, a pattern of asymmetric ramifications emerges, similar to the sap distribution in leaves or branching of trees. • Integration of infodynamic analysis with constructal law. • Informature and Infotropy have evolutionary implications in ramified flow structures. • Diminishing returns in diversity with multi-branching symmetric structures. • Performance Infotropy reveals local maximum transformation in constructal design. • Infodynamics reveals emerging natural patterns through statistical complexity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiscale modeling of complex systems is crucial for understanding their intricacies. In recent years, data-driven multiscale modeling has emerged as a promising approach to tackle challenges associated with complex systems. Still, at present,this field is more focused on the prediction or control problems in specific fields, and there is no suitable framework to help us promote the establishment of complex system modeling theory. On the other hand, self-similarity is prevalent in complex systems, hinting that large-scale complex systems can be modeled at a reduced cost. In this paper, we introduce a multiscale neural network framework that incorporates self-similarity as prior knowledge, facilitating the modeling of self-similar dynamical systems. Our framework can discern whether the dynamics are self-similar to deterministic dynamics. For uncertain dynamics, it not only can judge whether it is self-similar or not, but also can compare and determine which parameter set is closer to self-similarity. The framework allows us to extract scale-invariant kernels from the dynamics for modeling at any scale. Moreover, our method can identify the power-law exponents in self-similar systems, providing valuable insights for the establishment of complex system modeling theory. • Using self-similarity as prior information to model dynamics and identify if it is self-similar. • Extracting scale-invariant kernels from dynamics, suitable for modeling at any given scale. • Modeling fixed points and learning dynamic coarse-graining for renormalization strategies • A novel method to find power-law exponents in self-similar systems, revealing phase transitions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human-AI coevolution, defined as a process in which humans and AI algorithms continuously influence each other, increasingly characterises our society, but is understudied in artificial intelligence and complexity science literature. Recommender systems and assistants play a prominent role in human-AI coevolution, as they permeate many facets of daily life and influence human choices through online platforms. The interaction between users and AI results in a potentially endless feedback loop, wherein users' choices generate data to train AI models, which, in turn, shape subsequent user preferences. This human-AI feedback loop has peculiar characteristics compared to traditional human-machine interaction and gives rise to complex and often "unintended" systemic outcomes. This paper introduces human-AI coevolution as the cornerstone for a new field of study at the intersection between AI and complexity science focused on the theoretical, empirical, and mathematical investigation of the human-AI feedback loop. In doing so, we: (i) outline the pros and cons of existing methodologies and highlight shortcomings and potential ways for capturing feedback loop mechanisms; (ii) propose a reflection at the intersection between complexity science, AI and society; (iii) provide real-world examples for different human-AI ecosystems; and (iv) illustrate challenges to the creation of such a field of study, conceptualising them at increasing levels of abstraction, i.e., scientific, legal and socio-political. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fourier phase retrieval, which aims to reconstruct a signal from its Fourier magnitude, is of fundamental importance in fields of engineering and science. In this paper, we provide a theoretical understanding of algorithms for the one-dimensional Fourier phase retrieval problem. Specifically, we demonstrate that if an algorithm exists which can reconstruct an arbitrary signal x ∈ C N in Poly (N) log ⁡ (1 / ϵ) time to reach ϵ -precision from its magnitude of discrete Fourier transform and its initial value x (0) , then P = NP. This partially elucidates the phenomenon that, despite the fact that almost all signals are uniquely determined by their Fourier magnitude and the absolute value of their initial value | x (0) | , no algorithm with theoretical guarantees has been proposed in the last few decades. Our proofs employ the result in computational complexity theory that the Product Partition problem is NP-complete in the strong sense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drawing upon the interdisciplinary integration of co-production approaches of public service rooted in the public administration science, this study presents a retrospective analysis of the impact of public service and identifies key co-producers of tourism destination competitiveness (TDC) during uncertain periods. Utilizing the mixed qualitative and quantitative analysis of the policies implemented in Macao from 2020 to 2023 and the data from 1109 questionnaire surveys involving stakeholders, this study identifies 22 dimensions of the four types of co-production public services. This establishes the internal casual effects between the co-production public service and the TDC, which are achieved through diverse combination of co-production public service dimensions and specific co-producers, considering both their asymmetric and symmetric aspects. Our findings offer new insights into the tourism literature on TDC, exploring the conditions facilitated by co-production public service and providing valuable guidance for destination governments in developing public services to enhance TDC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The promise of sustainability-oriented innovation (SOI) as a way for firms to positively impact complex, systemic social and environmental challenges is widely embraced but little is known about the system-level impact of SOI. Although previous research suggests that working with stakeholders can enhance such innovation, the escalation of sustainability challenges indicates that we do not yet fully understand how to achieve system-level impact. To address this situation, we develop a framework to operationalize the system-level impact of SOI. We then apply qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) to empirically study different configurations of stakeholder involvement in SOI from 14 firms in eight countries in relation to their system-level impact. We find two distinct recipes for achieving such impact through SOI indicating that firms can choose a radically open collaboration with many non-profit oriented stakeholders or a more targeted approach to collaboration that includes a greater proportion of for-profit partners coupled with a specific impact extender. The equifinality we discover has implications for firm-level decision-making in terms of the type of stakeholders selected and the timing of their involvement. Our results bring systems thinking closer to firm-level action. We additionally identify a role for governmental stakeholders contributing to the renewed interest in management studies around government activities in innovation for complex sustainability challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared to traditional financial assets, cryptocurrencies exhibit higher volatility and uncertainty, with price fluctuations that are more difficult to predict. This heightened unpredictability can significantly affect global stock markets and profoundly influence the evolution of their risk network structures. Therefore, it is crucial to examine the multi-period connectivity and impacts of cryptocurrencies on the risk networks of international stock markets, alongside exploring the dynamic topological structures and evolutionary patterns of these networks. This study draws on complex systems and network theory, introducing a novel framework for analyzing multi-period connectivity and impacts, applied to six cryptocurrencies and the stock markets of G7 countries. It examines the multi-period effects of cryptocurrencies on global market risk network connectivity, impacts, and topology, while also testing the power-law behavior of network topologies across multi-periods. Empirical analysis reveals that: (1) Volatility in the short and medium terms following cryptocurrency shocks is more pronounced, with short-term fluctuations being larger and long-term factors exerting a greater influence on network characteristics; (2) XRP causes substantial disruptions, leading to increased volatility in the Japanese stock market; (3) Cryptocurrencies significantly enhance the connectivity of risk networks among G7 countries; and (4) Across different periods, the network exhibits a similar power-law distribution, with both risk concentration and diffusion effects showing identical trends of variation. However, in the short term, the average node connectivity is higher, and the network is more likely to evolve a core of risk contagion over the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores how the New York City Department of Education attempted to impact instruction and school quality through Teacher Career Pathways, a teacher leadership program. We apply Complexity Theory for Teacher Leadership (CTTL) to examine how teacher leaders may contribute to the improvement of stakeholder experiences and school quality. Using mixed methods, we compare schools with formal teacher leaders appointed into roles with targeted responsibilities and positional authority to lead to schools without formal teacher leaders. Diverging from prior literature, we find that schools with formal teacher leaders show improvement in school quality that matches targeted program areas not mirrored in schools without teacher leaders, suggesting formality may provide an important role in school change. In line with CTTL, we suggest that the effectiveness of formal teacher leaders may be attributed to their functioning as boundary spanners and network enhancers, reinforcing and amplifying changes over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]