bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimization of multi-UAV systems based on differential game theory and sliding mode control
Authors: Guan Shuai bin , Fu Xingjian 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
This study aims to optimize control strategies for multi-unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems by integrating differential game theory with sliding mode control and neural networks. This approach addresses challenges in dynamic and uncertain environments, enhancing UAV system coordination, operational stability and precision under varying flight conditions.

Design/methodology/approach
The methodology combines sliding mode control, differential game theory and neural network algorithms to devise a robust control framework for multi-UAV systems. Using a nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode observer and Nash equilibrium concepts, the approach counters external disturbances and optimizes UAV interactions for complex task execution.

Findings
Simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy, showcasing enhanced stability and robustness in managing multi-UAV operations. The integration of neural networks successfully solves high-dimensional Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equations, validating the precision and adaptability of the control strategy under simulated external disturbances.

Originality/value
This research introduces a novel control framework for multi-UAV systems that uniquely combines differential game theory, sliding mode control and neural networks. The approach significantly enhances UAV coordination and operational stability in dynamic environments, providing a robust solution to high-dimensional control challenges. The use of neural networks to solve complex Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equations for real-time multi-UAV management represents a groundbreaking advancement in autonomous aerial vehicle research.
Differentiation of autistic adults’ perceptions of research by gender: a mixed methods exploration
Authors: Wolpe Samara Merav , Tien Ingrid S. , Lee Nina Maxwell , Sozeri Sila 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
The funding breakdown of autism research diverges with the research priorities of the autism community and stakeholders (Putnam et al., 2023), prompting concern about the disconnect between researchers and the autism community (Keating, 2021). This study aims to address this gap in the literature through an exploration of autistic adults’ opinions of the current research landscape and what autism research should address through a survey disseminated to the autistic community.

Design/methodology/approach
In total, 89 autistic adults completed the survey. Participants rated their agreement to statements with a five-point Likert scale, ranging from “Strongly Disagree” to “Strongly Agree.” Participants were asked “What should autism research be focused on?” and answered via long answer text.

Findings
A numerical difference was found in participants’ ratings of autism research as more harmful than helpful. Participants who identified as nonbinary felt the research community was significantly less helpful and more harmful to the autistic community than those who identified as male (p < 0.01). Nonbinary participants expressed that community involvement in autism research is lower than those who identified as males or females (p < 0.01). Six main themes were identified: “Representation of Diversity in Gender and Ethnicity,” “Improving Quality of Life,” “A Strength-Based Approach,” “Autistic Subjective Experiences,” “Comorbid Mental and Physical Health Disorders” and “Autistic People Involved in Research.”

Originality/value
This research identified intersectional relationships between identity and feelings about autism research and explored recommendations from the autistic community on autism research that serves the best interests and desires of the community.
Evolutionary pathways and mechanisms of emerging market firms’ control over GVC core activities: a dynamic capability perspective
Authors: Song Yun , Zhang Ruiqiu , Sun Hui 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore how emerging market firms (EMFs), in the face of intense international competition within global value chains (GVCs), continuously accumulate the knowledge and capabilities needed to support leapfrog upgrading. Based on this, this paper aims to construct a process model of the dynamic evolution of EMFs’ control over GVC core activities.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper conducts a longitudinal case study of Ninestar Corporation, a leading company in the Chinese printer industry, to investigate its leapfrog upgrading practices. From the perspective of dynamic capabilities theory, the study explores the dynamic processes and intrinsic mechanisms through which EMFs achieve the evolution of their control over GVC core activities.

Findings
It is revealed that the dual-dimensional expansion of controlling the core activities of GVC from vertical functional architecture to horizontal product architecture is the pathway for manufacturing enterprises in emerging economies to achieve leapfrogging upgrades. It is also found that the dynamic capabilities of EMFs undergo iterative evolution during the upgrading process. The self-reinforcing logic and the path-creation logic of dynamic capabilities are the internal mechanisms for controlling GVC core activities to achieve the breakthrough in both the vertical functional division chain and the horizontal product division chain.

Originality/value
This paper provides an insightful case for how EMFs can achieve leapfrog upgrading in the new normal of global trade patterns. It explores how these firms can gain control over GVC core activities through the evolution of dynamic capabilities. The research findings extend the boundaries of the theory of firm upgrading.
I am, I can, I ought, I will: responsible leadership and the failures of ethics
Authors: Stanberry Joanna 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
This paper aims to develop a heuristic ethical stance as a provocation for responsible leadership scholarship and practice within entangled human–environment systems. Through consideration of the failures of ethics – in particular Uyghur mass atrocities and their residues in global supply chains – the stance offers a reflexive pathway between the inner value orientation of leaders and the scope of interconnected interests affected by leader action and inaction.

Design/methodology/approach
Through an autoethnographic narrative, the applied ethic brings together work by the contemporary Holocaust philosopher John Roth with a motto spread by Anglican educational philosopher and social entrepreneur Charlotte Mason (1842–1923). The failures of ethics centre material, sensorial, religious and relational tensions that are explored through three conversational vignettes relating to the current mass atrocities of Uyghur Turkic Muslims in the Xinjiang region of China.

Findings
The resulting ethical stance relates individual personhood to meso and macro levels through Mason’s motto –I am, I can, I ought, I will –and is developed to contain self-reflexivity and identity, conscience informed by testimony, consciousness of the power to protest and resist and intention to pivot. The failures of ethics highlight the apparent centrality of religious ethical traditions to considerations of responsible leadership.

Originality/value
The lack of serious and sustained attention to the ethics in responsible leadership, in particular ethical failures and religious ethics, limits its relevance within entangled systems The paper brings to responsible leadership novel philosophical perspectives to link reflexivity between individual and governance level responses and enliven the imagination of conscience through the ubiquity of complicity.
Tribological behavior and lubrication mechanism of nano g-C3N4 lubricant additive in paraffin oil on bearing steel disk
Authors: Fan Sui-Xin , Yan Xiaoni , Cao Yan , Liu Yi cong , Cao Sheng Wei , Meng Jun-Hu , Guo Junde 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
Nano graphitic-carbon nitride (g-C3N4) is an emerging lubrication technology with excellent performance and significant potential for future applications. This study aims to investigate the effect of nano g-C3N4 as a lubricant additive on the wear performance of bearing steel disk.

Design/methodology/approach
Various mass fractions of g-C3N4 were introduced into the base oil. Combining tribological testing, rheological testing and surface analysis methods, the anti-wear properties and lubrication mechanisms were analyzed.

Findings
Transmission electron microscopy images revealed that the size of the nanoparticles of g-C3N4 ranges from 10 to 100 nm. Phase analysis of the g-C3N4 sample was conducted using X-ray diffraction. Further, 1.0% mass fraction of g-C3N4 in the base oil provides excellent anti-wear and friction-reducing performance. Compared to the base oil alone, it reduces the average friction coefficient by 63.8% and decreases the wear rate by 43.1%, significantly reducing the depth and width of the wear scar. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and scanning electron microscope analysis revealed that the oil sample containing nano g-C3N4 can form a lubricating film on the sliding surface of bearing steel after wear, which enhances the lubricating properties of the base oil.

Originality/value
The synergistic effect of the base oil and nanoparticles reduces friction and wear and is expected to extend the service life of bearing steel. These findings suggest that incorporating nano g-C3N4 as a lubricant additive offers significant potential for improving the performance of mechanical components.

Peer review
The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-12-2024-0456/
Justice professionals’ perceptions of trauma informed supervision: a possible solution to the impact of trauma
Authors: O’Neill Catherine , Mozova Katarina 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
The purpose of this study is to establish how trauma informed practice (TIP)-based supervision is understood by justice professionals in the UK, as well as how (and whether) it is put to use in the system.

Design/methodology/approach
A predominantly qualitative phenomenological design with supplementary quantitative data was used to gain a holistic understanding of the topic. Police officers (n = 53 survey; n = 5 interview), solicitors/barristers (n = 47 survey; n = 4 interview), intermediaries (n = 56 survey; n = 4 interview) and judges/magistrate (n = 5 interview) were surveyed and/or interviewed.

Findings
Supervision was often misunderstood by professionals as case management. Only police officers noted the existence of supervision, but even that was inconsistent and often inadequate. Other respondents noted a complete lack of supervision. However, the need for it was very apparent as narratives surrounding the traumatic experiences respondents lived through included heavy detail relating to impact on mental health.

Practical implications
At a time when justice system organisations are developing in light of damming reviews, this research calls for embedding TIP-based supervision across all justice system organisations. TIP supervision is key whether professionals are employed (e.g. police) or self-employed (e.g. intermediaries/barristers). TIP supervision needs to be embedded already at the level of initial training, and within a wider TIP context, TIP supervision has to be conducted by adequately trained personnel.

Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first piece of work on TIP-based supervision in the English justice system with implications globally, as literature is sparse – trauma is present in justice systems all around the world.
A new era of succession planning in family businesses
Authors: Abaddi Samer 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThis study investigates the influences of socioeconomic, familial and personal, cultural, organizational and technological factors on succession planning within family businesses (FBs). It aims to untangle the complex web these factors weave together, shedding light on their collective impact on the seamless leadership transition from generation to generation.Design/methodology/approachThe theory of planned behavior (TPB) and systems theory (ST) were utilized in this study. The proposed framework is supported by a purposive quantitative design from 388 FBs in Jordan. The collected data were rigorously assessed using partial least squares-structural equation modeling and importance-performance map analysis.FindingsOur results have shown that successor characteristics, such as age, gender, education and attitude toward the takeover, strongly affect effective succession planning. Other major factors include strong family relationships, the size of the business and modern digital integration. However, the religious belief variable did not seem to influence succession planning. The results conclude that technological savvy and online community mediating factors support smooth transitions.Practical implicationsOffering a treasure trove of insights, this study equips FB stakeholders with strategic keys to unlock the potential of digital and communal resources in succession planning. It champions a dual approach that venerates age-old family values while embracing the digital age, paving the way for transitions that are not just smooth but also forward-thinking and resilient.Originality/valueThis study harmonizes the TPB with ST to forge an innovative lens through which succession planning in FBs can be viewed. It underscores the burgeoning role of digital integration, communal networks and the potential of AI and GPTs in enriching traditional succession planning paradigms. Given that FBs are significant to the Jordanian economy, this area is under-researched as for many emerging nations.
Investigating Satisfaction and Loyalty of the House‐Owner and the Tenant From Dual Perspectives Using Social Exchange Theory and Stimulus‐Organism‐Response Approach
Authors: Uzir Md Uzir Hossain , Jumaan Ibrahim Ali , Wahab Siti Norida , Amin Mohammad Bin , Bukari Zakari , Shukran Khaled , Ramayah Thurasamy , Ghosh Abhijit , Hassan Hafizah Che 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTThe dual effects are noticeable between two groups of people in influencing each other's behavior. This study investigated brand satisfaction and loyalty of electronic home appliances bought by the house‐owners in tenancy tenure; and, similarly, the level of satisfaction and loyalty the house‐owners showed towards the tenants' preferred brands. Data was collected from 262 house owners and 252 tenants (local and foreigners) using a paper‐based questionnaire. These two samples were selected via the purposive (judgmental) sampling technique from Terengganu state, Malaysia. The hypotheses, underpinned by the social exchange theory (SET) and stimulus‐organism‐response (S‐O‐R) theory, were analyzed with the PLS‐SEM (SmartPLS‐v4.0) technique. The findings showed that after‐sales service, brand image, and personal relationships were significant for satisfaction, and satisfaction and social media usage were significant for loyalty in both samples. However, product quality and usage experience were found to be insignificant to the satisfaction of the house owners; contrarily, they were found to be significant to the tenants' satisfaction. In addition, social media usage moderated the relationship between satisfaction and loyalty in both samples. The integration of SET and S‐O‐R provided substantial insight into the dynamic process of brand loyalty in purchasing and repurchasing home appliances. This study offers meaningful insights for business managers, especially brand managers, in considering dual aspects for house owners and tenants.
Homologous amacrine to amacrine gap junction coupling serves communication between neighbour OFF alpha retinal ganglion cells
Authors: Szarka Gergely , Futácsi Anett , Kovács‐Öller Tamás , Völgyi Béla 
Published: February 2025

AbstractMultiplexed visual coding by retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) has gained much support. Mouse transient OFF alpha RGCs (tOFFα RGCs) are excellent subjects to study this issue as they form direct RGC–RGC gap junctions (GJs) that serve spike synchronization, population coding and likely information multiplexing. In addition, tOFFα RGCs maintain GJs with a population of wide‐field amacrine cells (ACs) that have been suspected to mediate an additional, loose medium‐scale correlation of tOFFα RGC spikes. However, the spatial and temporal constraints of the GJ‐mediated AC–RGC signalling have yet to be tested directly via a combination of morphological and functional approaches. Here we show that AC‐mediated medium‐scale spike correlations are strongly related to spike bursts. On the other hand, our data also show that coupled ACs’ somata form spatially separated clusters each overlapping with only a single tOFFα RGC dendritic arbour suggesting the existence of GJ‐coupled tOFFα RGC–AC functional units. This finding seemingly argues against the hypothesis that ACs distribute common noise for burst‐based medium‐scale RGC spike correlations. However, we also found a high incidence of AC–AC GJ connections thereby forming the morphological substrate for the interconnection of functional units to correlate spike bursts on a medium time scale. These data thus suggest that besides encoding visual information by a single cell, tOFFα RGCs utilize RGC–RGC GJs to directly connect RGCs as well as AC–AC GJs to interconnect tOFFα RGC functional units to mediate two forms of population codes via precise spike synchronization and loose burst correlations, respectively.
imageKey points
Approach detector retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their electrically coupled amacrine cells (ACs) show morphological attributes of functional units.
These coupled ACs and RGCs share their main excitatory drive.
RGC–AC gap junctions underlie the generation of RGC action potential bursts.
AC–AC gap junctions interconnect neighbouring RGC functional units to correlate spike bursts and underlie medium‐scale spike correlations.
These results broaden our understanding of feature detection mechanisms in the retinal circuitry, the prerequisite of next generation retina prostheses.
Individual and Neighborhood Characteristics of Walking Activity in People Living With Dementia: A Proof of Concept for Quantitative Spatial Analysis
Authors: Nouri Mohammadjavad , Chaudhury Habib 
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Creating dementia-friendly neighborhoods is crucial for enhancing outdoor walking activity and maintaining social participation among people living with dementia (PLWD). This study utilizes GPS and geographic information system technologies to conduct a quantitative spatial analysis, revealing how individual and neighborhood characteristics are associated with PLWD’s walking activity characteristics. Methods: Twenty-five participants from Metro Vancouver had their regular walking routes (RWR) from home to neighborhood destinations recorded using GPS technology. Spatial analysis tools and existing survey data were utilized to construct the research geodatabase. Nonparametric tests (Spearman’s rank correlation, Kendall’s tau, and Mann–Whitney) and parametric tests (Pearson correlation and point biserial) assessed associations between independent variables, including sociodemographic characteristics of participants (e.g., age and health) and their neighborhoods (e.g., age structure and language barriers), and built environment features (e.g., land use diversity), with two dependent variables: length of RWR and walking time to regular destination within the 20-min walkshed. Results: Longer RWR and increased walking time to regular destination within the 20-min walkshed are associated with fewer physical health limitations, gentler terrain, proximity to green spaces, and bus stops. In addition, higher land use diversity, proximity to secondary streets, integrated sidewalks, higher number of benches and intersections, and a slight street network curvature showed positive associations with RWR length and walking time to regular destination within the 20-min walkshed. Conclusion: GPS and geographic information system technologies provide a unique quantitative method for understanding mobility patterns among PLWD. While limited by participant numbers, this exploratory study provides directions for future investigations. Significance/Implications: This study offers insights into designing dementia-friendly neighborhoods that support social engagement and physical activity among PLWD.
Successful Rehabilitation Following Stem Cell Therapy for Large Knee Osteochondritis Dissecans in an Adolescent Wrestler
Authors: Park Han Soo , Oh Jae Keun 
Published: February 2025

Context: Detailed rehabilitation protocols after stem cell treatment are lacking. This case highlights the rehabilitation of a patient treated with human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell implantation for a large osteochondritis dissecans lesion of the knee. Case presentation: A 17-year-old male adolescent wrestler experienced persistent left knee pain for 1 year, unresponsive to 6 months of conservative treatment. MRI revealed a large osteochondritis dissecans lesion (38 × 18 mm) in the lateral femoral condyle, which was treated with human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell implantation. Management and outcomes: Rehabilitation was conducted in 4 phases. The protection phase (1–8 wk) emphasized weight-bearing restrictions, continuous passive motion, and early gait training. The gait recovery phase (9–12 wk) incorporated stationary cycling and open kinetic chain exercises. During the maturation phase (13–24 wk), maximal strength and proprioception exercises were introduced with antigravity treadmill running. The final recovery phase (24–52 wk) focused on plyometric drills and sport-specific activities. Team training resumed at 32 weeks, and return to full competitive training occurred at 52 weeks. The limb symmetry index for isokinetic knee-extensor strength and single-leg hop test reached 95.2% and 97.9%, respectively, by 12 months, indicating near-complete functional recovery. The modified MRI of cartilage repair tissue score improved from 40 to 60 points between 1 and 3 years postsurgery. Second-look arthroscopy revealed an International Cartilage Repair Society grade 1 at 35 months. International Knee Documentation Committee scores increased from 17.2 preoperatively to 98.9 at 2 years, while visual analog scale scores decreased from 10 to 2 over 3 years. Conclusions: Accelerated weight bearing, early gait training, and phased strength exercises facilitated substantial improvements in function and cartilage healing in an adolescent wrestler with a large osteochondritis dissecans lesion. Further studies with larger cohorts are recommended to confirm these findings.