bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Measurement of S‐phase duration of adult stem cells in the flatworm Macrostomum lignano by double replication labelling and quantitative colocalization analysis
Authors: Verdoodt Freija , Willems Maxime , Dhondt Ineke , Houthoofd Wouter , Bert Wim , De Vos Winnok H. 
Published: September 2012

AbstractPlatyhelminthes are highly attractive models for addressing fundamental aspects of stem cell biology in vivo. These organisms possess a unique stem cell system comprised of neoblasts that are the only proliferating cells during adulthood. We have investigated Ts (S‐phase duration) of neoblasts during homoeostasis and regeneration in the flatworm, Macrostomum lignano. A double immunohistochemical technique was used, performing sequential pulses with the thymidine analogues CldU (chlorodeoxyuridine) and IdU (iododeoxyuridine), separated by variable chase times in the presence of colchicine. Owing to the localized nature of the fluorescent signals (cell nuclei) and variable levels of autofluorescence, standard intensity‐based colocalization analyses could not be applied to accurately determine the colocalization. Therefore, an object‐based colocalization approach was devised to score the relative number of double‐positive cells. Using this approach, Ts (S‐phase duration) in the main population of neoblasts was ∼13 h. During early regeneration, no significant change in Ts was observed.
Massively parallel measurements of molecular interaction kinetics on a microfluidic platform
Authors: Geertz Marcel , Shore David , Maerkl Sebastian J. 
Published: September 2012

Quantitative biology requires quantitative data. No high-throughput technologies exist capable of obtaining several hundred independent kinetic binding measurements in a single experiment. We present an integrated microfluidic device (k-MITOMI) for the simultaneous kinetic characterization of 768 biomolecular interactions. We applied k-MITOMI to the kinetic analysis of transcription factor (TF)—DNA interactions, measuring the detailed kinetic landscapes of the mouse TF Zif268, and the yeast TFs Tye7p, Yox1p, and Tbf1p. We demonstrated the integrated nature of k-MITOMI by expressing, purifying, and characterizing 27 additional yeast transcription factors in parallel on a single device. Overall, we obtained 2,388 association and dissociation curves of 223 unique molecular interactions with equilibrium dissociation constants ranging from 2 × 10
-6
M to 2 × 10
-9
M, and dissociation rate constants of approximately 6 s
-1
to 8.5 × 10
-3
s
-1
. Association rate constants were uniform across 3 TF families, ranging from 3.7 × 10
6
M
-1
s
-1
to 9.6 × 10
7
M
-1
s
-1
, and are well below the diffusion limit. We expect that k-MITOMI will contribute to our quantitative understanding of biological systems and accelerate the development and characterization of engineered systems.
An Amino Acid Substitution Inhibits Specialist Herbivore Production of an Antagonist Effector and Recovers Insect-Induced Plant Defenses
Authors: Schmelz Eric A. , Huffaker Alisa , Carroll Mark J. , Alborn Hans T. , Ali Jared G. , Teal Peter E.A. 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
Plants respond to insect herbivory through the production of biochemicals that function as either direct defenses or indirect defenses via the attraction of natural enemies. While attack by closely related insect pests can result in distinctive levels of induced plant defenses, precise biochemical mechanisms responsible for differing responses remain largely unknown. Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) responds to Fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) herbivory through the detection of fragments of chloroplastic ATP synthase γ-subunit proteins, termed inceptin-related peptides, present in larval oral secretions (OS). In contrast to generalists like Fall armyworm, OS of the legume-specializing velvetbean caterpillar (VBC; Anticarsia gemmatalis) do not elicit ethylene production and demonstrate significantly lower induced volatile emission in direct herbivory comparisons. Unlike all other Lepidoptera OS examined, which preferentially contain inceptin (Vu-In; +ICDINGVCVDA−), VBC OS contain predominantly a C-terminal truncated peptide, Vu-In−A (+ICDINGVCVD−). Vu-In−A is both inactive and functions as a potent naturally occurring antagonist of Vu-In-induced responses. To block antagonist production, amino acid substitutions at the C terminus were screened for differences in VBC gut proteolysis. A valine-substituted peptide (Vu-InƊV; +ICDINGVCVDV−) retaining full elicitor activity was found to accumulate in VBC OS. Compared with the native polypeptide, VBC that previously ingested 500 pmol of the valine-modified chloroplastic ATP synthase γ-subunit precursor elicited significantly stronger plant responses in herbivory assays. We demonstrate that a specialist herbivore minimizes the activation of defenses by converting an elicitor into an antagonist effector and identify an amino acid substitution that recovers these induced plant defenses to a level observed with generalist herbivores.
Transferring corporate knowledge via succession planning: analysis and solutions – Part 2
Authors: Appelbaum Steven H. , Benyo Christina , Gunkel Heidi , Ramadan Said , Sakkal Fadi , Wolff Damian 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe focus of the paper is a large, national, publicly traded company. As a large number of its workforce consists of “baby boomers”, 50 percent of its employees will be of retirement age within the next five years. Having acknowledged the company's concerns about efficiency of new employees and the loss of morale in senior employees, this two‐part article sets out to provide motivational tools for management and to suggest solutions to restructure and reorganize in a way to prevent the inevitable – i.e. the loss of corporate knowledge – via succession planning.Design/methodology/approachA survey and individual interviews were conducted within the company to measure current job satisfaction and company culture as well as how the different generations of employees view each other and themselves. Employees were also questioned about their legacy in the organization and their thoughts about transferring corporate knowledge from one generation to another. This is a two‐part article. Part 1 covers the background to the case under investigation, a review of relevant literature and the hypotheses to test the problem to be studied and solved. Part 2 describes the methodology and data related to demographics, the testing of the hypotheses and conclusions and recommendations.FindingsThe study found a correlation between job satisfaction and effective communication and a negative correlation between pre‐retirees and their lack of motivation as they approach retirement. Also, it was found that senior employees possess a willingness to share and transfer knowledge to younger generations.Research limitations/implicationsThe article relies on limited survey and interview data of one particular regional department within a large organization. Certain demographic questions were omitted to preserve confidentiality. The selected department and interview subjects were chosen by the organization and therefore the occurrence of sampling error is possible.Practical implicationsThis study monitored the impact that recent retirees will have on the remaining staff of a company. The act of effective succession planning is of paramount importance since the “baby boomer” generation is comprised of 76 million North Americans and the threat of the loss of corporate knowledge will inevitably increase as the population ages. The article offers recommendations as to how an organization can better manage the impact of a large number of retirees on the remaining workforce and what it can do to maximize efficiency.Originality/valueThe article offers practical solutions for dealing with the impact of retiring baby boomers and identifies models for a proactive approach in dealing with an issue that will affect the North American economy within the next five years.
The music of leadership
Authors: Cook Peter , Howitt John 
Published: September 2012

PurposeIn an attempt to rethink business after the worst recession for many decades, it is vital to rethink leadership and the sorts of HR strategies that will help companies thrive and survive in ways that are genuinely sustainable. This paper aims to explore three musical genres and their connections and contrasts with leadership.Design/methodology/approachThrough literature reviews informed by qualitative and action research, the paper reviews three musical paradigms and connects them with leadership practices.FindingsIn an ever‐complex world, leadership needs to convey complex concepts simply and concisely. It also needs to value diverse talents in ways that go beyond the usual definitions of diversity.Research limitations/implicationsQualitative/action research inevitably needs to be backed up by more formal research into the topic. This paper offers an agenda for action and further qualitative/quantitative research.Practical implicationsGreat leaders also have personal mastery, whilst also being able to tune in to the world around them. These are skills that can be learned/enhanced through experiential learning in the main.Social implicationsGreat leaders make complexity compellingly clear. They do this through providing sufficient structure to enable people to be their best. Music is the analogy of choice for making complex communications clear and there is much more to understand in this area.Originality/valueMuch effort has been expended on examining the parallels between business leadership and sports. Relatively little effort has been spent on music, which offers unique insights into the questions of diversity and teamwork in the context of high performance.
Effective and efficient mobile learning: issues and tips for developers
Authors: Little Bob 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThis paper's aim is to outline trends and recent developments in the design, developments and use of mobile learning.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses interviews with key players in the mobile learning development sector, along with complementary research.FindingsIt is found that: mobile learning is developing fast – not just in terms of applications but also in terms of its philosophy and standards; mobile learning can offer great value to learners because it can connect employees to the knowledge and expertise they need, when and where they need it; and new standards, authoring tools and authoring approaches to mobile learning are developing.Practical implicationsMerely transferring classroom based training to “e”, and especially mobile, learning does not really work. New technology, techniques and interoperable standards need to be – and are being – developed for mobile learning.Originality/valueNo comparable articles exist.
“Become what you are!”
Authors: Duke Alan , Boulanger Daniel 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThis article's aim is to demonstrate the pertinence and success of Michelin's worldwide talent and career management model, the purpose of which is to allow all employees to realise their full potential, or “become what they are”.Design/methodology/approachThe article is an inside account of principles, career management methods, development programmes and measurement tools by two former international career managers with Michelin – one English, one French – responsible for policy design and application, career development for senior management, and identification and development of tomorrow's leaders worldwide. A comparative table demonstrates the stark differences between a “become what you are” and a “do what you know” approach.FindingsIn a corporate culture based on respect for people, successful development of employee potential requires a three‐way partnership between employee, line manager and an independent career manager who is ultimately responsible for appointments. Managers do not own their people and individual development takes precedence over short‐term operational needs. The model results in cohesiveness, loyalty and business success.Research implications/limitationsThis is a case study of one career management model as related by two seasoned professionals responsible for making it work worldwide.Practical implicationsThe model can be applied in any national culture and across organisational barriers or “silos”. It is transferable wholly or partially to other organisations, both private and public.Social implicationsThe result is an improved working atmosphere where employees are generally content to get on with the job and let someone else, calmly and impartially, plan their futures. This person is known, is independent from line management, and has the authority to act.Originality/valueThis is not a new theory, but a view from within of a highly successful career management model that has stood the test of time and can be applied universally.
Connecting across continents: collaborative learning in a Web 2.0 world
Authors: Davis Kate , Hallam Gillian , Henry Katya , Davis Wendy , Fairbairn Kysira , Heidelberger Ellen 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe article aims to review a university course, offered to students in both Australia and Germany, to encourage them to learn about designing, implementing, marketing and evaluating information programs and services in order to build active and engaged communities. The concepts and processes of Web 2.0 technologies come together in the learning activities, with students establishing their own personal learning networks (PLNs).Design/methodology/approachThe case study examines the principles of learning and teaching that underpin the course and presents the students' own experiences of the challenges they faced as they explored the interactive, participative and collaborative dimensions of the web.FindingsThe online format of the course and the philosophy of learning through play provided students with a safe and supportive environment for them to move outside of their comfort zones, to be creative, to experiment and to develop their professional personas. Reflection on learning was a key component that stressed the value of reflective practice in assisting library and information science (LIS) professionals to adapt confidently to the rapidly changing work environment.Originality/valueThis study provides insights into the opportunities for LIS courses to work across geographical boundaries, to allow students to critically appraise library practice in different contexts and to become active participants in wider professional networks.
Mobile augmented reality applications for library services
Authors: Hahn Jim 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to introduce mobile augmented reality applications for library uses and next generation library services.Design/methodology/approachExamples are drawn from museum and archives informatics, computer science applied research, and computer vision research as well as original research and development work from the Undergraduate Library at the University of Illinois.FindingsMobile augmented reality uses include augmenting physical book stacks browsing, library navigation, optical character recognition, facial recognition, and building identification mobile software for compelling library experiences.Originality/valueThe paper suggests uses of mobile augmented reality applications in library settings and models a demonstration prototype interface.
Management versus repetitive tasks – avoiding “working for the weekend”
Authors: Thomas Janelle R. , Holley Robert P. 
Published: September 2012

PurposeIn this paper the authors aim to examine ways to motivate staff whose job assignments include repetitive library tasks such as shelving, copy cataloguing, circulation, and other similar functions.Design/methodology/approachThe authors review the appropriate management literature and build upon the extensive management experience of the second author.FindingsWays to increase employee motivation including enriching the work experience, effective communication, appropriate incentives, and treating each employee as an individual. Sharing tasks among staff and maintaining an ergonomic workspace are also important. Library automation and eliminating unneeded tasks can reduce repetitive tasks but can also lead to a reduction in staff.Practical implicationsThe paper provides practical steps for managers to take to keep staff motivated when faced with repetitive tasks.Originality/valueThis paper summarizes the management literature on this topic to provide practical guidance for library managers.
Using predictive analytics in the library
Authors: Massis Bruce E. 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this column is to introduce predictive analytics and its potential for use in the library.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses a literature review and commentary on this topic that has been addressed by theoreticians, researchers and practitioners.FindingsToday, there are numerous commercial data‐analysis software tools that can assist the library in its organizational planning efforts. Most prominently in the basic areas of staffing, budgets, collections, services and facilities, predictive analytics can be used to help develop an overall plan of financial and programmatic development for the library.Originality/valueThe value in addressing this issue is to suggest that libraries might consider use of data‐analysis software to support their budget and planning processes.
How do management students perceive the quality of education in public institutions?
Authors: Narang Ritu 
Published: September 2012

PurposeKeeping in mind the urgent need to deliver quality education in higher education institutes, the current paper seeks to measure the quality perception of management students in India.Design/methodology/approachBased on an exploratory study a modified version of SERVQUAL was employed as the research instrument. Data were collected from young students between the ages of 21‐25 years.FindingsThe research instrument, EduQUAL, comprising 28 items tested well for both reliability and validity. Five dimensions of the scale, namely learning outcomes, responsiveness, physical facilities, personality development and academics, were identified. The results obtained pointed at the negative quality gaps in all the five dimensions of EduQUAL. The highest negative gap was visible in the physical facilities dimension and lowest negative score in case of academics dimension. There were significant differences between perceptions and expectations of students with respect to all the five dimensions of the scale (p<0.001).Research limitations/implicationsThe study was confined to three public educational institutes so the generalizations for the entire nation have to be used cautiously. Therefore, the researchers are encouraged to extend this research to private and foreign universities as well.Practical implicationsThe current study provides valuable insights into the quality of higher education perceived by students in India.Originality/valueThe study points out the seriousness required of the policy makers in ensuring the quality of higher education rather than being concerned with only quantitative increase of higher education institutes. It seeks to draw the attention of the administration towards areas of performance where improvements are required or more resources need to be diverted.
First‐time‐users' impressions of continuing education using the internet
Authors: Conte Nelly 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe paper's aim is to describe the first experiences of, opinions and attitudes toward, continuing education using the internet of a group of Puerto Rican pharmacists after an online course.Design/methodology/approachThis is a descriptive study using a focus group of practicing pharmacists who participated in continuing education using the internet for the first time.FindingsThe participants' descriptions and impressions with regard to online continuing education (CE) experiences were both emphatic and covered all aspects of the process, from accessing the CE site to selecting a topic to reading the content and answering the questions. Pharmacists recognized the importance and advantages of online CE, but demonstrated preference for live CE. Lack of technical skills is still a limitation, especially the lack of internet navigation skills.Research limitations/implicationsThe recruiting methodology did not result in a sufficient number of participants for the two sessions that were planned which highlighted some of the cultural aspects of the process of inviting professionals to attend and participate in a focus group. Even though only one focus group was conducted, the systematic approach garnered detailed and valuable information.Practical implicationsStrong preferences for live CE, the need for socializing, and time‐management issues were identified as being barriers to participating in CE that educators, professional associations and CE providers can address. Continuing education designers and providers must carefully design their web pages and courses to increase its quality, to facilitate taking a CE, to increase satisfaction, and to increase recurrent use.Originality/valueThe paper presents the reactions of a group of adult professionals as they encounter a new learning experience by means of the internet.
Improving service quality in technical education: use of interpretive structural modeling
Authors: Mitra Debnath Roma , Shankar Ravi 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify the relevant enablers and barriers related to technical education. It seeks to critically analyze the relationship amongst them so that policy makers can focus on relevant parameters to improve the service quality of technical education.Design/methodology/approachThe present study employs the interpretive structural modeling (ISM) approach to model the crucial parameters of technical education. The parameters discussed are categorized under “enablers” and “barriers”. The enablers would help policy makers to improve and develop the curriculum of the technical education and the identifying barriers would help the decision maker to improve upon those variables.FindingsThe major findings of this study are to prioritize the strategic parameters in reducing the risks associated with technical education. The model also proposes a hierarchical structure classifying the parameters as drivers and enablers.Research limitations/implicationsThe study proposes a scientific way to model the enablers and barriers to become a progressive institution in the emerging era of globalization and modernization. This would help to prioritize the issues as the enablers and barriers are hierarchically structured and categorized.Practical implicationsThe paper maps out a course of action and the adoption of the proposed framework would provide a competitive edge for India over others. Also, the various stakeholders would be satisfied, which would be beneficial for the system as a whole.Originality/valueThe application of ISM to the decision making process is the unique feature in the field of technical education in India. The integrated framework of policy related parameters would contribute towards overall growth and development.