bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heritable tumor cell division rate heterogeneity induces clonal dominance
Authors: Palm Margriet M. , Elemans Marjet , Beltman Joost B.
Published: January 2017

Tumors consist of a hierarchical population of cells that differ in their phenotype and genotype. This hierarchical organization of cells means that a few clones (i.e., cells and several generations of offspring) are abundant while most are rare, which is calledclonal dominance. Such dominance also occurred in publishedin vitroiterated growth and passage experiments with tumor cells in which genetic barcodes were used for lineage tracing. A potential source for such heterogeneity is that dominant clones derive from cancer stem cells with an unlimited self-renewal capacity. Furthermore, ongoing evolution within the growing population may also induce clonal dominance. To understand how clonal dominance developed in the iterated growth and passage experiments, we built a computational model that accurately simulates these experiments. The model simulations reproduced the clonal dominance that developed inin vitroiterated growth and passage experiments when the division rates vary between cells, due to a combination of initial variation and of ongoing mutational processes. In contrast, the experimental results can neither be reproduced with a model that considers random growth and passage, nor with a model based on cancer stem cells. Altogether, our model suggests thatin vitroclonal dominance develops due to selection of fast-dividing clones.
Beyond modularity: Fine-scale mechanisms and rules for brain network reconfiguration
Authors: Khambhati Ankit N. , Mattar Marcelo G. , Bassett Danielle S.
Published: January 2017

The human brain is in constant flux, as distinct areas engage in transient communication to support basic behaviors as well as complex cognition. The collection of interactions between cortical and subcortical areas forms a functional brain network whose topology evolves with time. Despite the nontrivial dynamics that are germaine to this networked system, experimental evidence demonstrates that functional interactions organize into putative brain systems that facilitate different facets of cognitive computation. We hypothesize that such dynamic functional networks are organized around a set of rules that constrain their spatial architecture – which brain regions may functionally interact – and their temporal architecture – how these interactions fluctuate over time. To objectively uncover these organizing principles, we apply an unsupervised machine learning approach called nonnegative matrix factorization to time-evolving, resting state functional networks in 20 healthy subjects. This machine-learning approach automatically clusters temporally co-varying functional interactions into subgraphs that represent putative topological modes of dynamic functional architecture. We find that subgraphs are stratified based on both the underlying modular organization and the topographical distance of their strongest interactions: while many subgraphs are largely contained within modules, others span between modules and are expressed differently over time. The relationship between dynamic subgraphs and modular architecture is further highlighted by the ability of time-varying subgraph expression to explain inter-individual differences in module reorganization. Collectively, these results point to the critical role subgraphs play in constraining the topography and topology of functional brain networks. More broadly, this machine learning approach opens a new door for understanding the architecture of dynamic functional networks during both task and rest states, and for probing alterations of that architecture in disease.
Monitoring Microtubule Mechanical Vibrations via Optomechanical Coupling
Authors: Barzanjeh Sh. , Salari V. , Tuszynski J. A. , Cifra M. , Simon C.
Published: January 2017

The possible disruption of a microtubule during mitosis can control the duplication of a cancer cell. Cancer detection and treatment may be possible based on the detection and control of microtubule mechanical oscillations in cells throughexternal fields (e.g. electromagnetic or ultrasound). However, little is known about the dynamic (high-frequency) mechanical properties of microtubules. Here we propose to control the vibrations of a doubly clamped microtubule by tip electrodes and to detect its motion via the optomechanical coupling between the vibrational modes of the microtubule and an optical cavity. In the presence of a red-detuned strong pump laser, this coupling leads to optomechanical induced transparency of an optical probe field, which can be detected with state-of-the art technology. The center frequency and linewidth of the transparency peak give the resonance frequency and damping rate of the microtubule respectively, while the height of the peak reveals information about the microtubule-cavity field coupling. Our method should yield new knowledge about the physical properties of microtubules, which will enhance our capability to design physical cancer treatment protocols as alternatives to chemotherapeutic drugs.
ALK: a tyrosine kinase target for cancer therapy
Authors: Holla Vijaykumar R. , Elamin Yasir Y. , Bailey Ann Marie , Johnson Amber M. , Litzenburger Beate C. , Khotskaya Yekaterina B. , Sanchez Nora S. , Zeng Jia , Shufean Md Abu , Shaw Kenna R. , Mendelsohn John , Mills Gordon B. , Meric-Bernstam Funda , Simon George R.
Published: January 2017

The anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene plays an important physiologic role in the development of the brain and can be oncogenically altered in several malignancies, including non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and anaplastic large cell lymphomas (ALCL). Most prevalent ALK alterations are chromosomal rearrangements resulting in fusion genes, as seen in ALCL and NSCLC. In other tumors, ALK copy-number gains and activating ALK mutations have been described. Dramatic and often prolonged responses are seen in patients with ALK alterations when treated with ALK inhibitors. Three of these—crizotinib, ceritinib, and alectinib—are now FDA approved for the treatment of metastatic NSCLC positive for ALK fusions. However, the emergence of resistance is universal. Newer ALK inhibitors and other targeting strategies are being developed to counteract the newly emergent mechanism(s) of ALK inhibitor resistance. This review outlines the recent developments in our understanding and treatment of tumors with ALK alterations.
Synchronization and Arrest of the Budding Yeast Cell Cycle Using Chemical and Genetic Methods
Authors: Rosebrock Adam P.
Published: January 2017

The cell cycle of budding yeast can be arrested at specific positions by different genetic and chemical methods. These arrests enable study of cell cycle phase–specific phenotypes that would be missed during examination of asynchronous cultures. Some methods for arrest are reversible, with kinetics that enable release of cells back into a synchronous cycling state. Benefits of chemical and genetic methods include scalability across a large range of culture sizes from a few milliliters to many liters, ease of execution, the absence of specific equipment requirements, and synchronization and release of the entire culture. Of note, cell growth and division are decoupled during arrest and block-release experiments. Cells will continue transcription, translation, and accumulation of protein while arrested. If allowed to reenter the cell cycle, cells will do so as a population of mixed, larger-than-normal cells. Despite this important caveat, many aspects of budding yeast physiology are accessible using these simple chemical and genetic tools. Described here are methods for the block and release of cells in G1 phase and at the M/G1 transition using α-factor mating pheromone and the temperature-sensitive cdc15-2 allele, respectively, in addition to methods for arresting the cell cycle in early S phase and at G2/M by using hydroxyurea and nocodazole, respectively.
Synchronization of Budding Yeast by Centrifugal Elutriation
Authors: Rosebrock Adam P.
Published: January 2017

In yeast, cell size is normally tightly linked to cell cycle progression. Centrifugal elutriation is a method that fractionates cells based on the physical properties of cell size—fluid drag and buoyant density. Using a specially modified centrifuge and rotor system, cells can be physically separated into one or more cohorts of similar size and therefore cell cycle position. Small G1 daughters are collected first, followed by successively larger cells. Elutriated populations can be analyzed immediately or can be returned to medium and permitted to synchronously progress through the cell cycle. This protocol describes two different elutriation methods. In the first, one or more fractions of synchronized cells are obtained from an asynchronous starting population, reincubated, and followed prospectively across a time series. In the second, an asynchronous starting population is separated into multiple fractions of similarly sized cells, and each cohort of similarly sized cells can be analyzed separately without further growth.
Immunolocalization of Proteins in Fission Yeast by Electron Microscopy
Authors: Morphew Mary K. , Giddings Thomas H. , McIntosh J. Richard
Published: January 2017

Electron microscopy (EM) immunolocalization of antigens in fission yeast can be accomplished with cells processed by rapid freezing and freeze-substitution followed by embedding in acrylic or methacrylate resins. Microtome sections of embedded cells are collected onto EM grids. Primary antibodies to the antigen of interest, followed by secondary antibodies conjugated to colloidal gold, are allowed to bind to antigens at the surface of these plastic sections. This type of postembed labeling provides information on antigen localization to a resolution of 10–20 nm, depending on the size of the metal particle used, the form of the antibody (Fab vs. complete IgG or IgM), and whether direct or indirect labeling is used. The method has the potential to map macromolecules in three dimensions in a relatively large volume when thin (30–60-nm) serial sections are labeled, imaged, aligned, and modeled to create a representative volume. The biggest challenge of this technique is the necessary compromise between the preservation of cellular ultrastructure and the preservation of antigen reactivity. The protocols described here show how to immunolabel samples for EM and include suggestions for overcoming challenges related to antigen preservation.
Cryoelectron Microscopy of Fission Yeast
Authors: Morphew Mary K. , Giddings Thomas H. , McIntosh J. Richard
Published: January 2017

Fission yeast cells can be prepared for electron microscopy (EM) in the frozen-hydrated state. This eliminates the requirement for dehydration and heavy metal staining when preparing samples for EM. As with room temperature imaging, however, the yeast must be sectioned to make them thin enough for transmission of the electron beam. Cutting sections of vitreous ice with a microtome is challenging. An alternative method that uses a focused ion beam to make a thin sample by milling away much of the sample at liquid nitrogen temperatures is under development but is not yet available for routine use. Imaging frozen-hydrated samples by EM is also a challenge. The technique involves battling low image contrast, high sensitivity to the electron beam, and mechanical distortions produced during the sectioning process. When used successfully, however, the method holds promise of providing excellent molecular detail without the disruption characteristic of dehydration or isolating a structure from its cellular environment. Cryo-EM of tilted views can be used to examine small structures and macromolecular complexes in their native cellular environment. If a structure exists in multiple copies, or has a repeating unit, it can be investigated at higher resolution using subvolume averaging. This protocol focuses on the preparation of cells for cryo-EM.
Derivation and Culture of Extra-Embryonic Endoderm Stem Cell Lines
Authors: Rugg-Gunn Peter
Published: January 2017

Whereas embryonic stem (ES) cells are isolated from the embryonic lineage of the blastocyst, other stable stem cell lines can be derived from the extraembryonic tissues of the early mouse embryo. Trophoblast stem (TS) cells are derived from trophectoderm and early postimplantation trophoblast, and extraembryonic endoderm stem (XEN) cells are derived from primitive endoderm. The derivation of XEN cell lines from 3.5-dpc mouse blastocysts, described here, is similar to the derivation of TS cell lines. TS and XEN cells can self-renew in vitro and differentiate in vitro and in chimeras (in vivo) in a lineage-appropriate manner, showing the developmental potential of their origin, thus providing important models to study the mouse extraembryonic lineages.
Whole-Genome Sequencing: Manual Library Preparation
Authors: Mardis Elaine , McCombie W. Richard
Published: January 2017

This protocol describes a manual approach for the preparation of genomic DNA libraries suitable for Illumina sequencing. Genomic DNA fragments produced by shearing by sonication are ligated to adaptors and amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The amplified DNA, separated by size and gel-purified, is suitable for use as template in whole-genome sequencing.
Electron Microscopy of Fission Yeast
Authors: McIntosh J. Richard , Morphew Mary K. , Giddings Thomas H.
Published: January 2017

Electron microscopy (EM) can provide images of cells with a spatial resolution that significantly surpasses that available from light microscopy (LM), even with modern methods that give LM “super resolution.” However, EM resolution comes with costs in time spent with sample preparation, expense of instrumentation, and concerns regarding sample preparation artifacts. It is therefore important to know the limitations of EM as well as its strengths. Here we describe the most reliable methods for the preservation of fission yeast cells currently available. We describe the properties of images obtained by transmission EM (TEM) and contrast them with images from scanning EM (SEM). We also show how one can make three-dimensional TEM images and discuss several approaches to address the problem of localizing specific proteins within cells. We give references to work by others who have pursued similar goals with different methods, and we discuss briefly the complex subject of image interpretation.
Methods for Synchronization and Analysis of the Budding Yeast Cell Cycle
Authors: Rosebrock Adam P.
Published: January 2017

Like other eukaryotes, budding yeast temporally separate cell growth and division. DNA synthesis is distinct from chromosome segregation. Storage carbohydrates are accumulated slowly and then rapidly liquidated once per cycle. Cyclin-dependent kinase associates with multiple different transcriptionally and posttranslationally regulated cyclins to drive the cell cycle. These and other crucial events of cellular growth and division are limited to narrow windows of the cell cycle. Many experiments in the yeast laboratory treat a culture of cells as a homogeneous mixture. Measurements of asynchronous cultures are, however, confounded by the presence of cells in various cell cycle stages; measuring a population average in unsynchronized cells provides at best a decreased signal and at worst an artifactual result. A number of experimentally tractable methods have been developed to generate populations of yeast cells that are synchronized with respect to cell cycle phase. Robust methods for determining cell cycle position have also been developed. These methods are introduced here.
Examining the experiences and quality of life of patients with an autism spectrum disorder detained in high secure psychiatric care
Authors: Murphy David , Mullens Hannah
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Although individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) represent a small proportion of forensic psychiatric patients as a group they present with specific difficulties and needs. There is also evidence that if detained individuals with an ASD experience particular difficulties within custodial environments as a result of a mismatch between the difficulties associated with their ASD and the environmental demands. The purpose of this paper is to explore the experience of individuals with an ASD admitted to a high secure psychiatric care (HSPC) hospital.

Design/methodology/approach

Using both a semi-structured interview and a quality of life self-report measure (the Lancashire Quality of Life Profile) the experiences and views of seven patients with an ASD detained in one HSPC hospital were qualitatively explored.

Findings

Whilst a diverse range of negative and positive aspects of being within HSPC were identified by patients interviewed, those with prison experience thought HSPC was a less stressful environment with more therapeutic opportunities. As a group, patients with an ASD reported a similar or significantly better quality of life in many domains (global, leisure, financial and living situation) compared to other detained forensic patient groups.

Practical implications

Although most patients with an ASD interviewed reported positive experiences, there are a number of practical improvements that could be made within the hospital to reduce experienced stress levels and perhaps improve therapeutic outcomes.

Originality/value

Within the context of the Department of Health's autism strategy (2010) and subsequent update think autism (2014), the survey highlights continued ASD awareness training for staff as important. In responding to the risks and needs of individuals with an ASD in HSPC there is further support for the development of an ASD specialist service.
Are we good and are we safe? Measuring quality and assessing risk in an adult autism diagnostic service
Authors: Stansfield Alison Jane , Kam Alwyn , Baddams Tara , Woodrow Bethany , Roberts Emma , Patel Bhavika , Davidson Conor James
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Leeds autism diagnostic service is an adult autism diagnostic service for people of any intellectual ability which also offers consultancy to service users/carers or professionals, as well as a wide range of autism training. The service was set up as a pilot in 2011 and a paper describing the service development was published in this journal in November 2015. The purpose of this paper is to describe the approach taken to measure the quality of the service the authors provide and accurately assess risk in adults with autism.

Design/methodology/approach

The process of evaluating appropriate outcome measures is described, along with considering appropriate risk assessment tools for use in the community. Over 200 people each year complete the autism diagnostic pathway, and 164 patients were invited to respond to service evaluation questionnaires in 2014.

Findings

To date, the most useful outcome measures for this group include a prospective service user questionnaire which enables service user opinion to influence service development. In the absence of any appropriate autism-specific risk assessment tools, the service has developed one which it is currently piloting. This has proved particularly useful in the consultancy setting

Originality/value

This paper is a follow-up paper looking at the day-to-day issues that the team have had to grapple with – how do you assess whether what you are doing is providing the best possible service for the people that you serve and how do you accurately assess risk in this population?
Cognitive behaviour therapy for social anxiety in autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review
Authors: Spain Debbie , Sin Jacqueline , Harwood Laura , Mendez Maria Andreina , Happé Francesca
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Individuals who have autism spectrum disorders (ASD) commonly experience anxiety about social interaction and social situations. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is a recommended treatment for social anxiety (SA) in the non-ASD population. Therapy typically comprises cognitive interventions, imagery-based work and for some individuals, behavioural interventions. Whether these are useful for the ASD population is unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to undertake a systematic review to summarise research about CBT for SA in ASD.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a priori criteria, the authors searched for English-language peer-reviewed empirical studies in five databases. The search yielded 1,364 results. Titles, abstracts, and relevant publications were independently screened by two reviewers.

Findings

Four single case studies met the review inclusion criteria; data were synthesised narratively. Participants (three adults and one child) were diagnosed with ASD and SA. There were commonalities in interventions and techniques used: participants were encouraged to identify and challenge negative thoughts, enter anxiety-provoking social situations, and develop new ways of coping. Unlike CBT for SA in non-ASD individuals, treatment also included social skills interventions. Outcomes were assessed using self- or informant-reports. Improvements in SA, depressive symptoms, social skills, and activity levels were noted. Generalisability of results is hampered, however, by the small number of studies and participants and lack of randomised controlled trial conditions employed.

Research limitations/implications

Future studies should investigate how beliefs and behaviours indicative of SA can be ameliorated in individuals with ASD.

Originality/value

This is the first review to synthesise empirical data about CBT for SA in ASD.
A conceptual physical education course and college freshmen’s health-related fitness
Authors: Liu Jingwen , Shangguan Rulan , Keating Xiaofen D. , Leitner Jessica , Wu Yigang
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Conceptual physical education (CPE) classes have been widely offered to promote a healthy lifestyle in higher education settings. The purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of a CPE course on health-related fitness (HRF) levels among college freshmen.

Design/methodology/approach

A pre- and post-test research design was used. In total, 50 freshmen in a US university were enrolled in a 13-week CPE course. Their HRF levels were assessed by the Fitnessgram at the beginning and the end of the course.

Findings

Students significantly enhanced their aerobic capacity, upper-body muscle strength and endurance, abdominal muscle strength and endurance, and decreased body fat percentage. No significant improvement in flexibility was found among the total sample. However, non-kinesiology students significantly enhanced their flexibility while the opposite trend was found among kinesiology students. Female students reduced more body fat percentage, while male students increased their aerobic capacity more rapidly than their female counterparts.

Practical implications

The CPE course could yield significant improvement in HRF among freshmen, regardless of sex or major. Universities may consider offering CPE courses for all students and mandate such courses as a degree requirement.

Originality/value

This empirical study investigated HRF level changes that occurred after a CPE course intervention among college freshmen. Sex and major difference in HRF changes were revealed. The interventions included in the CPE course could help improve freshmen's HRF levels in future intervention programs in a similar setting.
How the media cover mental illnesses: a review
Authors: Ma Zexin
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Mental illness has become an important public health issue in society, and media are the most common sources of information about mental illnesses. Thus, it is important to review research on mental illnesses and media. The purpose of this paper is to provide a narrative review of studies on mental illnesses in the media and identifies important research gaps.

Design/methodology/approach

A combination of searching key databases and examining reference lists of selected articles was used to identify relevant articles. In total, 41 empirical studies published in the last 12 years were reviewed.

Findings

The review found that substantial research had been done to investigate media portrayals of mental illnesses and the effects of such portrayals might have on the public. Media still portray mental illnesses negatively in general, which contributes to the ongoing mental illness stigmatization. Nonetheless, discussions of mental illnesses in direct-to-consumer advertisements and social media tend to be more objective and informative. These objective portrayals could help improve mental health literacy and reduce stigma. More importantly, media can also reduce the stigma if used strategically. Research has found that entertainment-education programs and web-based media have strong potential in reducing mental illness stigma. Recommendations for future research are also discussed.

Practical implications

Findings can guide future efforts to use media to educate the public about mental illnesses and reduce mental illness stigma.

Originality/value

This study reviews the most recent research on mental illnesses in the media and provides important references on the media representation of mental illnesses, media effects of such representation, and using media to reduce stigma.
Occupational well-being and leadership in a school community
Authors: Laine Sari , Saaranen Terhi , Ryhänen Eva , Tossavainen Kerttu
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present well-being, leadership, and the development of each from a communal perspective in a Finnish primary school in the years 2000-2009.

Design/methodology/approach

The study included five sets of data. The quantitative research data were collected from the school staff using the Well-Being at Your Work index questionnaire in 2004 (n=36), 2005 (n=41), and in 2009 (n=34). In 2006, two group interviews were carried out with the school personnel (n=21), and in 2011, retrospective interview data were collected from an expert classroom teacher (n=1). Quantitative data were analysed statistically using descriptive statistics. The qualitative group interview data were analysed by an inductive content analysis, while the expert interview was analysed according to the methods of factual analysis.

Findings

During this period, several communal interventions were developed in the school to promote occupational well-being. Over the course of the study, staff members’ satisfaction with the actions and the support provided by the principal has improved, and leadership-related problems have decreased.

Research limitations/implications

The results cover research findings from one school and therefore cannot be generalised to other Finnish school communities.

Originality/value

Schools’ work communities must be active in developing interventions to improve their own occupational well-being. Furthermore, leaders must be actively involved in the development of occupational well-being.
Social marketing interventions aiming to increase physical activity among adults
Authors: Kubacki Krzysztof , Ronto Rimante , Lahtinen Ville , Pang Bo , Rundle-Thiele Sharyn
Published: January 2017

Purpose

A significant proportion of the world’s adult population is insufficiently active. One approach used to overcome barriers and facilitate participation in physical activity is social marketing. The purpose of this paper are twofold: first, this review seeks to provide a contemporary review of social marketing’s effectiveness in changing physical activity for the better; and second, it seeks to ascertain the extent that Andreasen’s (2002) six social marketing benchmark criteria have been applied in social marketing interventions targeting physical activity.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 94 articles covering 26 social marketing interventions were identified following systematic literature review procedures.

Findings

None of the interventions gave evidence that they addressed all six social marketing benchmark criteria, and only four interventions addressed five criteria. The results indicate that three of the benchmark criteria, namely, behavioural objectives, formative research, and marketing mix are well utilised in social marketing interventions. Inclusion of market segmentation, exchange and competition offers potential to extend further on social marketing’s effectiveness in increasing physical activity.

Originality/value

The results of the current study indicate that increasing the number of benchmark criteria used in an intervention to at least four increases the chances of achieving positive behavioural outcomes.
Organizational Ambidexterity: welcome to Paradox City
Authors: Smith Simon M.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The paper aims to introduce the concept of organizational ambidexterity and offers some implications for practitioners of human resources (HR).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a developed viewpoint constructed using other literature on organizational ambidexterity.

Findings

This paper offers a unique perspective to HR practitioners which embraces a paradoxical stance that combines exploitative and explorative dimensions.

Originality/value

Organizational ambidexterity is growing and developing within the literature. This paper seeks to offer access to this complex perspective to provoke thought and potential action.
The challenges of organizational agility (part 1)
Authors: Appelbaum Steven H. , Calla Rafael , Desautels Dany , Hasan Lisa
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Planned episodic change programs, rigid processes and traditional structures, optimized for efficiency rather than agility, are no longer appropriate in a context where competitive advantage is fueled by high-speed innovation, supported by a more entrepreneurial mindset. The purpose of this two part paper is to offer a review of relevant research to provide an informed case for continuous strategic transformation facilitated by enhanced organizational agility. The concept of agility is explored, defined and a framework for categorizing agility-enhancing capabilities is presented. Specific aspects of this agility framework are examined to better understand how these interrelated competencies contribute to overall corporate performance in this fast-paced world.

Design/methodology/approach

A range of published empirical and practitioner research articles were reviewed to study the concepts of organizational agility and transformation as critical factors contributing to sustained competitive advantage, organizational performance and survival in the increasingly competitive global context. This literature review explores how organizations are overcoming the challenges imposed by their traditional structures, cultures and leadership models and identifies dynamic competencies to be developed to achieve a greater level of corporate agility.

Findings

Increased organizational agility increases the ability to respond proactively to unexpected environmental changes. The commitment to continuous transformation and agile strategies implies changes at all levels of the organization from its structure, through its leadership and decision-making dynamics, down to the skills and interpersonal relationships of the individuals implementing the agile mission.

Research limitations/implications

There is a gap in the literature with respect to agility, namely, that most research focuses on the characteristics of agile organizations, with little attention given to how to develop agile capabilities and embed the commitment to continuous change deep into the corporate DNA, beyond the process level, into the psyche of the people driving the organization.

Practical implications

Managers should consider agility as an overarching principle guiding strategic and operational activities. Fostering agility-enhancing capabilities will be paramount in ensuring the successful integration of agility as a performance enhancing paradigm.

Social implications

For small- and medium-sized companies with limited resources, this reality makes staying relevant an uphill battle but also opens windows of opportunity. The challenge of the next century for large organizations will be to rekindle their innovative agile beginnings and for start-ups to continue to foster their dynamic capabilities as they grow.

Originality/value

The paper provides practical and empirical evidence of the importance of enterprise agility and specific dynamic capabilities on firm performance.
Critical success factors, challenges and obstacles in talent management
Authors: Tafti Marjan Maali , Mahmoudsalehi Mahdi , Amiri Mojtaba
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the obstacles and challenges of talent management as well as its success factors in Iranian automotive industries.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is a kind of discoverer research done by qualitative approach. The methodology to data collection was interview and research sample was 15 manager in automotive industries. Data analysis was carried out by the coding method, and concepts, minor and major contexts were extracted and lastly the conceptual framework was formed.

Findings

Based on the findings of the research, framework of obstacles and challenges in talent management was classified into four categories that are structural challenges and barriers, environmental challenges and barriers, behavioral challenges and barriers and lastly managerial challenges and barriers. In addition, the framework of talent management success factors were categorized into three main sections that are structural success factors, environmental success factors and finally managerial success factors.

Originality/value

Problem finding of talent management in automotive industry and identifying obstacles, challenges and success factors in talent management with qualitative approach through interviews with experts from the Iranian industries is the research value.
Green training for sustainable procurement? Insights from the Brazilian public sector
Authors: Aragão Claudia Gomes , Jabbour Charbel Jose Chiappetta
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Human resources practices, particularly regarding environmental training, play a key role in the dissemination of sustainable supply chain practices, especially sustainable procurement. Both environmental training and sustainable procurement can prompt environmental maturity (EM) among organizations. However, little is known about the relationship between environmental training and the adoption of sustainable procurement in public sector organizations of emerging economies, such as Brazil. In this context, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between environmental training and the adoption of sustainable procurement in three Brazilian public/state universities.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is qualitative and includes an exploratory study based on in-depth interviews with experts from the procurement section of Brazilian public universities. A methodological framework is proposed to analyze the results. The main questions that guided this study were: is there a relationship between the environmental-training initiatives and the adoption of sustainable procurement? Does this relationship, whether positive or negative, improve the maturity of environmental sustainability? And what is the future outlook for this issue in the context of public universities in Brazil?

Findings

According to the results’ analysis, the impact of sustainable procurement practices among the public organizations analyzed was almost void. The environmental training produced limited accomplishments, although respondents viewed it as a source of potential improvement, which indicates a co-evolution of sustainable procurement, environmental training and EM. In the cases analyzed, an alignment was identified among the levels of sustainable procurement and environmental training adoption.

Research limitations/implications

It was identified that the lacks of training and support from senior management, environmental culture, great bureaucracy and economic factors were considered barriers and difficulties to implementing environmental procurement practices. These barriers deserve further study.

Originality/value

There is a lack of research on the relationship between environmental training and the adoption of sustainable procurement in emerging economies and in public sector organizations.
Building a comprehensive framework for sustainable education using case studies
Authors: Dubey Rameshwar , Gunasekaran Angappa , Deshpande Abhijit
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a comprehensive theory for sustainable education.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have used a multiple case studies approach.

Findings

The authors have identified ten drivers that influence sustainable education. Most of these drivers have been drawn on the basis of extensive literature review; however, some of the drivers are novel to the current study, such as attitude, behavior, and promotion.

Research limitations/implications

The framework needs to be validated using empirical research with a large-sample size.

Practical implications

The study offers guidelines to universities and institutions that want to impart sustainable education to their students for better employability.

Social implications

The study makes an immense contribution to society by recognizing the need for sustainable education and identifying how to achieve better results.

Originality/value

The current paper contributes to the existing literature by identifying three novel constructs and how the constructs can shape sustainable education to address current market needs.
The fundamental role of social support in cultivating motivation to improve work through learning
Authors: Ng Kueh Hua
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to increase the understanding of the relationship between social support (organizational, supervisor, and co-worker support) and the higher-order construct of motivation in human resource development (HRD), namely motivation to improve work through learning (MTIWL).

Design/methodology/approach

Self-reported data were collected from 131 public service employees who had attended management training programs organized by one of the Malaysian public service training providers.

Findings

Support emanating from the organization, supervisor, and co-worker had exerted positive and significant influences on MTIWL. Further, organizational support had the strongest relationship with MTIWL, relative to supervisor and co-worker support.

Practical implications

There is a need to extend the responsibility and proficiency of the organization, supervisor, and co-worker in providing practical support in training and workplace contexts to further enhance MTIWL.

Originality/value

This paper provides a better understanding of the influences of social support on a more practical and comprehensive trainee motivation in HRD, which is MTIWL.
The effects of cognitive style on Edmodo users’ behaviour
Authors: Ursavaş Ömer Faruk , Reisoglu Ilknur
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the validity of extended technology acceptance model (TAM) in explaining pre-service teachers’ Edmodo acceptance and the variation of variables related to TAM among pre-service teachers having different cognitive styles.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modeling approach was used to analyze an extended TAM that represents the relationship between the eight constructs and cognitive style. Group Embedded Figures Test and technology acceptance measure were used as data collection tools. The study was conducted with 129 pre-service teachers.

Findings

The results indicate that perceived ease of use (PEU) influences behavioral intention (BI) to use Edmodo indirectly through attitude toward Edmodo use and perceived usefulness (PU). Technological complexity and facilitating conditions influence BI to use indirectly through PU and PEU, respectively. Thus, the extended TAM is a parsimonious model explaining 75, 72, and 82 percent of the endogenous variable (BI) for the whole sample, for the field dependent sample, and for the field independent sample, respectively.

Originality/value

This paper addresses to determine the BI of pre-service teachers regarding Edmodo, which is an innovative tool, based on cognitive styles.
The flipped classroom model: when technology enhances professional skills
Authors: Baytiyeh Hoda
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effectiveness of the flipped classroom model in teaching and learning as well as the skills that can be acquired by students after being exposed to this learning style.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a qualitative case study design. In total, 20 students, from various majors, who were enrolled in a web-design course, participated in a survey that consisted of open-ended questions exploring their perceptions toward the flipped classroom approach.

Findings

The students’ comments offered evidence for a deeper and broader perspective on learning, and five themes have emerged: self-regulated learning, problem-solving skills, teamwork and communication skills, enjoyment, and creativity.

Originality/value

This study reveals that this teaching style can enrich the learning experience of students and can help them develop the soft skills they need to succeed in any profession.
How organizational stressors affect collective organizational citizenship behaviors in the French Police
Authors: Molines Mathieu , Sanséau Pierre-Yves , Adamovic Mladen
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Stress issues are a major concern for public organisations, especially in law enforcement. Organisational context is to blame for high levels of stress and low performance. Thus, the purpose of this paper is twofold. First, the authors aim to understand how one contextual variable – organisational stressors that emanate from the police station’s characteristics – affect organisational citizenship behaviour (OCB). The second research aim is to assess how promoting trust in the police station can help mitigate the negative effects of these stressors. Based on the job demands – resources framework, the model posits that organisational stressors initiate a health-impairment process through an emotional-exhaustion climate, that can ultimately damage collective OCBs. The authors also propose that fostering a trust climate, as job resource, buffer the undesirable and negative impact of organisational stressors on exhaustion climate and collective OCB.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper opted for a quantitative study. Based on a sample of 718 police officers from 70 French Police stations, the authors follow the procedure outlined by Preacher (2013) to test the moderated-mediation model.

Findings

The study show that organisational stressors initiate a health-impairment process through an emotional-exhaustion climate, that can ultimately damage collective OCBs. The authors also demonstrate that fostering a trust climate, as job resource, will not decrease negative effects of organisational stressors but only contained them. Low-trust climate and moderate trust climate will, on the contrary, amplified the negative effects of these organisational stressors.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified need to study stressors-strain-performance relationship at the collective level in a large sample of police officers. The paper includes implications for the development of interventions at the collective level.
Enacting social media success in local public administrations
Authors: Criado J. Ignacio , Rojas-Martín Francisco , Gil-Garcia J. Ramon
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The diffusion of social media among public administrations has significantly grown in the last years. This phenomenon has created a field of research that seeks to understand the adoption and impact of social media in the public sector. The purpose of this paper is to identify the factors that make social media successful in Spanish local governments.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on an adapted version of a neo-institutional model: Enacting Electronic Government Success (EEGS). The data have been collected through three main sources: primary data from a questionnaire designed and conducted by the authors, secondary data of statistical sources, and tertiary data collected through Klout Score.

Findings

The results from a survey and statistical analysis provide preliminary validation of the model and show a direct relationship between organizational, institutional, and environmental factors with the successful use of social media in local public administrations. The data analysis shows that ten variables jointly explain 54.6 percent (adjustedR2=0.546) of the variability observed in the dependent variable.

Research limitations/implications

First, the analysis model used represents a limited sample size to carry out a complex quantitative analysis. Second, the use of Klout Scores can offer some bias. Finally, certain variables complicate the comparative potential of the study.

Originality/value

This study provides original primary data and contributes to the growing field of study related to social technologies in public administrations. This research also confirms in an exploratory way the validity of the EEGS model.
Understanding public performance measurement through theoretical pluralism
Authors: Barbato Giovanni , Turri Matteo
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate, through different interpretative theories, the implementation and operation of performance measurement systems (PMS) considering the factors crucial in influencing the development and the operational difficulties of the PMS in a context such as Italy, which is typically unresponsive to new public management-inspired ideas.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical framework is developed through the use of new institutional sociology and management control theory. The empirical study involves the whole ministerial sector, and explores some strategic documents belonging to the new PMS introduced in Italy in 2009.

Findings

The research illustrates a widespread dissemination of the reform in ministries. However, it has also shown the ceremonial and superficial implementation of the PMS. In addition, the findings confirm that the operation and the actual development of a PMS is strongly affected by the characteristics of the activity under examination.

Research limitations/implications

The peculiarity of the Italian context limits the generalizability of the findings to countries with similar public sector management and culture. Further studies may investigate the system through an individual perspective, i.e. exploring the role of individual managers in slowing down the operations of the evaluation systems.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the debate on the implementation and operation of administrative reforms in legalistic countries also known as Rechtsstaat countries. The use of multiple theories allows investigating the subject matter by considering its complexity in a holistic way.