Advanced Studies for Resolving Nonlinear Dynamic Systems Involving Complexity Based on Systems Thinking for Non-Physicists

There are many examples of nonlinear dynamics, such as food chains or thermodynamic systems within closed-loop systems. In modern physics, these problems have been resolved based on logical thinking by using the chaos theory in statistical physics, which was arranged by classical physicists in the 17th century. However, this is a significantly erroneous problem because, in engineering science, nonlinear dynamics must be resolved and cleared using systems analysis theory based on systems thinking. It is the main concept in a new solution that is studied through interdisciplinary research;it is needed to introduce control theory into physics. In 2015, on the behalf of physicists, the author successfully resolved and achieved a new solution, which is a significant achievement in modern science. Unfortunately, physicists have not welcomed it because it is disadvantageous to them, similar to the Copernican theory. So, they themselves became outsiders. If so, non-physicists need to follow their chaos theory in physics unless they do not clarify their solution;moreover, non-physicists on behalf of physicists can use their own new solution without risk. Hence, all scientists need to learn the systems analytic method in engineering.

From Transitions to Transformation: A Brief Review of the Potential Impacts of COVID-19 on Boosting Digitization, Digitalization, and Systems Thinking in the Built Environment

In a short time, during the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak, we managed to shift rapidly to use digital technologies and replace some of our daily operations with virtual modes. This shift happened so instantly and widely that it enables us to argue that the COVID-19 became a valid reason to boost some of the gradual and ongoing transitions towards faster transformations. In this study, we use gray literature to delve into arguments around the boost for digitization, digitalization, and systems thinking in the development of the built environment. This is mostly discussed from the influence of COVID-19 on some of the existing practices or the business-as-usual of the built environment sector. From technological advancement to technology use, these arguments are put forward to discuss what is likely to be the major driver of technological adoption and the shifting paradigms that are yet to be revealed. The study concludes that the current push towards new directions and development pathways are likely to be widely accepted in a shorter time. The findings of this brief study feed into existing arguments on transformative pathways due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Systems Thinking and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene: Examples from Kenya’s <i>Afya Jijini</i>Program

The Afya Jijini program targeted improved access to and quality of health services in Nairobi City County through the strengthening of local health systems. The program took a systems thinking approach recognizing that strong, coordinated commitments and contributions from various levels of multiple sectors such as health, public works, and education would be essential to the program’s success. Consistent with the World Health Organization’s proclamation that the provision of safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) are prerequisites for all public health endeavors, WASH-related efforts were woven into nearly all facets of the Afya Jijini program. IRC is a nonprofit located in the Netherlands focused on systems thinking approaches for sustainable WASH improvements. IRC’s 9 building blocks are tools to assist in breaking down the complexities of systems, identifying key actors and factors that contribute to sustainable improvements, and setting clear program indicators and targets for success. This conceptual manuscript seeks to explore the Afya Jijini program through the lens of the IRC’s building block approach to systems thinking. Examples of Afya Jijini programming aligned with each building block are presented to assist program planners and guide future interventions. Afya Jijini could have benefited from increased attention to several key building blocks, including institutions, finance, and learning and adaptation.

Introducing Sustainability Concepts Into University Curricula Through Systems Thinking

The aim of this paper is to explore the major issues involved in introducing sustainability concepts into university curricula in an interdisciplinary manner, through Systems Thinking. It is generally accepted that a holistic approach is essential in sustainability studies, but teaching such a new and complex topic to a diverse student population is by no means easy. In this study, sustainability is viewed in the context of Systems Thinking, particularly in Complexity Management domain. A general framework is proposed with the intension of guiding potential instructors who are planning to teach sustainability through Systems Thinking. The framework includes only the suggested systems-oriented material and a review of some system methodologies; it does not cover sustainability issues. Methodologies known as System Dynamics and Soft Cybernetics are explored and emphasized particularly in the paper due to their importance. The framework is kept general enough so that it appeals to students and instructors with a variety of background.

Evaluation of the Validity of Chaos Theory Based on Systems Thinking for Non-Physicists

Chaos theory was born in the 18th century, physicists still solve the nonlinear dynamic systematic problems within closed-loop systems such as ecosystems, three-body problems involving complexity, and others. Moreover, it has been resolved these problems based on logical thinking using logical solutions with algebra and statistics such as chaos theory. The reason is determinism. Nevertheless, other scientists do not welcome the old chaos theory because the chaos theory is very imperfect and vague. Amazingly, in 2021, there is emerged, and an advanced and systematic solution based on system thinking;it was resolved by a non-physicist on behalf of physicists through interdisciplinary science and it is more perfect than the old chaos theory. Therefore, it is similar to the New World discovered by Columbus. This paper will prove that the existing chaos theory is invalid as a new solution emerges. Nevertheless, current physicists avoid approaching this study as much as possible. Therefore, other scientists have no reason to follow their invalid chaos theory unless physicists prove the validity of chaos theory.

New Systems Solution for Resolving Nonlinear Dynamics Based on Systems Thinking

This study describes a new solution for resolving nonlinear dynamics. Surprisingly, it has been resolved and completed by non-physicists on behalf of physicists in 2021. It is a revolutionary solution like the Copernican Theory, which is perfectly different from the existing chaos theory. In the past, nonlinear dynamics has been analyzed using logical solutions, such as chaos theory, based on logical thinking. However, it is not perfect systematic solution, hence;the new solution has been analyzed and resolved by systematic analytical tool in other sciences. Then, the result is more perfect and precise than the old chaos theory. Regrettably, most physicists do not welcome this advancement, because they have primitive solutions such as chaos theory. If the new solution is true, it is very disadvantageous to them like Galileo’s heliocentric theory. Therefore, they do not welcome it and deny and reject it. Hence, they wish it to fail;moreover, they want to remain in safe zone. Unfortunately, they became outsiders because they have no ability to review new solutions. Unfortunately, we have no obligation to follow physicists. If so, non-physicists, bypassing physicists, must study independently nonlinear dynamics based on systems thinking, and have to share the findings other scientists. It means that the new solution would be replaced the chaos theory in traditional physics;moreover, it would be resolved many unsolved nonlinear dynamics in the future.

More than Target 6.3： A Systems Approach to Rethinking Sustainable Development Goals in a Resource-Scarce World

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development outlines 17 individual Sustainable Development Goals （SDGs） that guide the needs of practice for many professional disciplines around the world, including engineering, research, policy, and development. The SDGs represent commitments to reduce poverty, hunger, ill health, gender inequality, environmental degradation, and lack of access to clean water and sanitation. If a typical reductionist approach is employed to address and optimize individual goals, it may lead to a failure in technological, policy, or managerial development interventions through unin- tended consequences in other goals. This study uses a systems approach to understand the fundamental dynamics between the SDGs in order to identify potential synergies and antagonisms. A conceptual system model was constructed to illustrate the causal relationships between SDGs, examine system structures using generic system archetypes, and identify leverage points to effectively influence intentional and minimize unintentional changes in the system. The structure of interactions among the SDGs reflects three archetypes of system behavior： Reinforcing Growth, Limits to Growth, and Growth and Underinvestment. The leverage points identified from the conceptual model are gender equality, sustainable management of water and sanitation, alternative resources, sustainable livelihood standards, and global partnerships. Such a conceptual system analysis of SDGs can enhance the likelihood that the development community will broaden its understanding of the potential synergistic benefits of their projects on resource management, environmental sustainability, and climate change. By linking the interactions and feedbacks of those projects with economic gains, women＇s empowerment, and educational equality, stakeholders can recognize holistic improvements that can be made to the quality of life of many of the world＇s poor.

Fusing Systems Thinking with Knowledge Management

This paper introduces the background and purpose of the International Society for Knowledge and Systems Sciences and considers new developments in systems science in the knowledge society.First,in connection with the reason why the name of the society includes knowledge and systems,this paper argues that it is important to support each other for the development of both systems science and knowledge science.Next,this paper introduces three approaches that have tried to combine systems thinking and knowledge management in this academic society.They are Knowledge Systems Engineering,Informed Systems Approach,and Knowledge Construction Systems Methodology.This paper suggests new developments in systems science and engineering that incorporate the concept of knowledge management through explanations of these significances.

Systems thinking in combating infectious diseases

The transmission of infectious diseases is a dynamic process determined by multiple factors originating from disease pathogens and/or parasites,vector species,and human populations.These factors interact with each other and demonstrate the intrinsic mechanisms of the disease transmission temporally,spatially,and socially.In this article,we provide a comprehensive perspective,named as systems thinking,for investigating disease dynamics and associated impact factors,by means of emphasizing the entirety of a system’s components and the complexity of their interrelated behaviors.We further develop the general steps for performing systems approach to tackling infectious diseases in the real-world settings,so as to expand our abilities to understand,predict,and mitigate infectious diseases.

Policy Resistance Case Study Focused on Government’s Intervention in the Conflict Between Big-Box Stores and Traditional Market in Korea Based on Systems Thinking Approach

Rapid expansion of big-box store in developing country caused typical archetypal change in market structure: Success to the Successful, because big-box stores armed with modernized infrastructure and management capability are absorbing the once customers of the traditional market like a black hole. Facing rapid change in market structure and surmounting pleas from traditional market merchants, government took an inevitable intervention with law regulating the big-box store’s business and improving traditional market’s competence building. Not so long, however, did government confront policy resistance from both sides: Still ongoing polarization of both side’s sales. This study articulates behavior over time of market structure with causal loop diagrams of which causalities are extracted from literatures. This study provides significant contribution to policy makers and traditional markets’ merchants in other developing countries like India and China, as well as Korea.

A goal-based approach for modeling and simulation of different types of system-of-systems

A system of systems(SoS)composes a set of independent constituent systems(CSs),where the degree of authority to control the independence of CSs varies,depending on different SoS types.Key researchers describe four SoS types with descending levels of central authority:directed,acknowledged,collaborative and virtual.Although the definitions have been recognized in SoS engineering,what is challenging is the difficulty of translating these definitions into models and simulation environments.Thus,we provide a goal-based method including a mathematical baseline to translate these definitions into more effective agent-based modeling and simulations.First,we construct the theoretical models of CS and SoS.Based on the theoretical models,we analyze the degree of authority influenced by SoS characteristics.Next,we propose a definition of SoS types by quantitatively explaining the degree of authority.Finally,we recognize the differences between acknowledged SoS and collaborative SoS using a migrating waterfowl flock by an agentbased model(ABM)simulation.This paper contributes to the SoS body of knowledge by increasing our understanding of the degree of authority in an SoS,so we may identify suitable SoS types to achieve SoS goals by modeling and simulation.

Complexity Decision Making and General Systems Theory： An Educational Perspective

The aim of this paper is to look at some important educational aspects of complexity decision making m a mummsc^pnnary manner from the perspective of General Systems Theory （GST）. First, the major issues involved in complexity management and decision making are summarized as they are viewed in literature, and a review of GST and Systems Thinking is given. The discussion in the paper is developed within the context of GST in general, but concentrated on decision making in the three trends of GST： Operations Research, Cybernetics, and Managerial Cybernetics. Here, the role of Cybernetics in complexity decision making is particularly emphasized. The discussion is then extended to the latest developments in complexity decision making in Science of Complexity and Soft Systems Thinking. The study also includes a framework which is expected to guide instructors who are planning to offer contemporary courses on decision making. The framework provides some clues for assessing the level of complexity for a given situation and selecting the appropriate methodology for solution development.

对总体国家安全观中“总体”和“领域”辩证关系的思考

In the new era, a holistic approach to national security entails both epistemology and methods. This approach systematically integrates and innovatively develops the scientific theories and methods developed by the Communist Party of China over the last one hundred years, with original contributions made by the concepts of “overall security” and “field security.” Overall national security is at a higher level, political in nature, and full of theoretical appeal. In contrast, field security is dynamic, oriented toward solving practical problems, and closely related to securitizing nonsecurity issues. From the three aspects of security and national security, development and security, and overall and field security,we find that overall national security and field security have a dialectical relationship between the universal and the particular, the macro and the micro, and the ordinary and the principal. Properly handling these dialectical relations will help implement the basic principles of balanced development and security and better ensure new development with a new security pattern.

A Systematic Analysis of Systems Approach and Flood Risk Management Research:Trends,Gaps,and Opportunities

Flooding is a global threat,necessitating a comprehensive management approach.Due to the complexity of managing flood hazards and risks,researchers have advocated for holistic,comprehensive,and integrated approaches.This study,employing a systems thinking perspective,assessed global flood risk management research trends,gaps,and opportunities using132 published documents in BibTeX format.A systematic review of downloaded documents from the Scopus and Web of Science databases revealed slow progress of approximately 11.61% annual growth in applying systems thinking and its concomitant approaches to understanding global flood risk management over the past two decades compared to other fields like water resource management and business management systems.A significant gap exists in the application of systems thinking methodologies to flood risk management research between developed and developing countries,particularly in Africa,highlighting the urgency of reoriented research and policy efforts.The application gaps of the study methodology are linked to challenges outlined in existing literature,such as issues related to technical expertise and resource constraints.This study advocates a shift from linear to holistic approaches in flood risk management,aligned with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2023 and the Sustainable Development Goals.Collaboration among researchers,institutions,and countries is essential to address this global challenge effectively.

Teaching English in the song of music：Toward a systemic framework for using English songs in EFL teaching

Guided by dialectical systemic thinking, this paper proposes a systemic framework for using English songs in EFL teaching. It first provides the philosophical, linguistic, psychological, pedagogical, and empirical bases for such an approach, then outlines the major processes in selecting and preparing English songs in lesson planning, and demonstrates the main procedures and aspects of using songs in classroom activities. It argues that the application of this approach will immediately stimulate the learners＇ interest in EFL learning and enhance the efficiency of EFL teaching.

Hydrogeochemical and Multivariate Statistical Techniques to Trace the Sources of Ground Water Contaminants and Affecting Factors of Groundwater Pollution in an Oil and Gas Producing Wetland in Rivers State, Nigeria

Background: Groundwater is an important source of drinking water for the indigenous communities of Ebocha-Obrikom. Access to safe drinking water, in particular, is critical to one’s health and, by extension, one’s income and well-being. Underground wells are the primary supply of drinking water in the Niger Delta, and the groundwater is not always treated before consumption. As a result, water continues to be a vital environmental component that affects both humans and other life forms. Objectives: The aims of the research are to trace the sources and affecting factors of groundwater pollution via statistical and multivariate statistical techniques. Method: The investigation made use of standard analytical procedures. All sampling, conservation, transportation and analysis followed standard procedures described in APHA (2012). To prevent degradation of the organic substances, all obtained samples were transferred to the laboratory, while kept in an icebox. Results: The study reveals that the greater the number of principal components extracted the greater variation in geochemical composition of the ground waters. It indicated that 34 parameters were distributed into six (6) and nine (9) principal components (PCs) extracted for groundwater samples for both rainy and dry seasons, potentially suggesting the input of different pollutants from different sources. Gas flaring, mineral dissolution/precipitation and anthropogenic input are the main sources of the physicochemical indices and trace elements in the groundwater. Groundwater chemistry is predominantly regulated by natural processes such as dissolution of carbonates, silicates, and evaporates and soil leaching, followed by human activities. Climatic factors and land use types are also important in affecting groundwater chemistry. Conclusion: Greater efforts should be made to safeguard groundwater, which is hampered by geogenic and anthropogenic activities, in order to achieve sustainable groundwater development. As a result, communities are recommended to maintain a groundwater management policy to ensure long-term sustainability. The study is useful for understanding groundwater trace sources in Rivers State’s Ebocha-Obrikom districts. Such understanding would enable informed mitigation or eradication of the possible detri-mental health consequences of this groundwater, whether through its use as drinking water or indirectly through consumption of groundwater-irrigated crops. As a result, determining its primary probable source of pollution (MPSP) is critical since it provides a clearer and more immediate interpretation. Furthermore, the research findings can be used as a reference for groundwater pollution prevention and water resource protection in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria.

The Application of Model-Based Systems Engineering to Rural Healthcare System Disaster Planning:A Scoping Review

Disasters and other emergency events have complex effects on human systems,particularly if the events are severe or prolonged.When these types of events happen in rural communities,the resources of the local public health,healthcare,and emergency response organizations can be quickly depleted or overwhelmed.Planning for emergencies can help to mitigate their impact.Model-based systems engineering(MBSE)methods,including computer simulations,can provide insight on how best to prepare for these events and to explore the effects of varying approaches and resource utilization.To best apply these methods for improving disaster management in rural settings,a synthesis of the current body of evidence in this field is needed.The objective of this scoping review was to provide a descriptive overview of the application of computer simulation based on MBSE approaches to disaster preparedness and response for rural healthcare systems.Six studies met inclusion criteria,and varied in terms of MBSE method used,healthcare setting,and disaster type and context considered.We identified a gap in the research regarding the application of MBSE approaches to support rural healthcare disaster preparedness planning efforts.Model-based systems engineering and systems thinking,therefore,represent novel methods for developing tools and computational simulations that could assist rural communities better prepare for disasters.

Anaerobic Digestion in the Nexus of Energy, Water and Food

Conventional waste management practices focusing principally on waste collection, treatment and disposal or even minimisation often prove insufficient to address resource management challenges in a sustainable manner. Taking into account the relationship between water provision, energy security and resource efficiency, a systems approach that delivers a strong information basis and provides opportunities for resource use optimisation at various levels of application provides opportunities for synergies that could deliver real benefits when cross-sectoral solutions are applied. By-products from sewage treatment in combination with organic solid waste such as food waste can provide a valuable source of energy if managed properly and utilised effectively. This way, waste can be seen as a raw material than can be turned into a resource rather than simply be discarded. As such, AD （anaerobic digestion）, the co-digestion of food waste with sewage sludge, could become a strategic and cross-sectoral solution, if carefully applied, with the potential to convey beneficial synergies for the water and the waste industries. However, barriers to the development of such systems are diverse and often interlinked. Institutional frameworks, decision making constraints, and regulatory boundaries might still appear to require an answer for three different problems, but this can be overcome if presented as just three different parts of the same answer. Such synergies could deliver economic benefits from the additional renewable energy generated and its associated incentives, and savings on costs for the infrastructure required for the exclusive digestion of food waste.

A Consumer Choice Theory Incorporating Behavioral and Spiritual Wisdom

A consumer makes choices by following a certain paradigm, a system for organizing his thinking based on norms that are determined by certain norm-setters or role models. Widespread societal ills such as depression and suicide seem to correlate with certain types of consumer behavior. However, current consumer choice theories don＇t appear to be effective in evaluating epidemiology research. This study compares existing consumer choice paradigms and introduces the linguistic paradigm as a framework for studying the organization of human thinking. The linguistic paradigm is based on the nature of human language and on spiritual wisdom. The paradigm is implemented to generate models （process templates） for the analysis of selected consumer choice issues. The potential effectiveness of these models in analyzing consumer behavior is discussed.

Development of a Proof-of-Concept Multi-Method Computer Simulation to Support Rural Healthcare Disaster Preparedness Planning

Due to a lack of resources,rural communities often face challenges when planning catastrophic events.This project involved applying systems thinking and model-based systems engineering to develop a proof-of-concept,multi-method computer simulation and then determining whether the simulation could be used to assess the efficacy of disaster planning approaches on health outcomes in rural communities,as a function of primary healthcare.The project focus was a rural or non-urban healthcare system experiencing a natural hazard.Both system dynamics and discrete event models were incorporated to represent subsystem operations,crucial disaster responses,as well as three key response systems:public health,emergency management,and healthcare.The subsystem models included several components:policies/procedures,communications,resources,exercises/drills/training,healthcare space and staff,and the flow of affected people into and through the system.The combined simulation can serve as a first step to a more comprehensive approach to helping rural communities achieve more efficient and effective healthcare planning for disaster responses.