Motility at the origin of life: Its characterization and a model

Due to recent advances in synthetic biology and artificial life, the origin of life is currently a hot topic of research. We review the literature and argue that the two traditionally competing "replicator-first" and "metabolism-first" approaches are merging into one integrated theory of individuation and evolution. We contribute to the maturation of this more inclusive approach by highlighting some problematic assumptions that still lead to an impoverished conception of the phenomenon of life. In particular, we argue that the new consensus has so far failed to consider the relevance of intermediate timescales. We propose that an adequate theory of life must account for the fact that all living beings are situated in at least four distinct timescales, which are typically associated with metabolism, motility, development, and evolution. On this view, self-movement, adaptive behavior and morphological changes could have already been present at the origin of life. In order to illustrate this possibility we analyze a minimal model of life-like phenomena, namely of precarious, individuated, dissipative structures that can be found in simple reaction-diffusion systems. Based on our analysis we suggest that processes in intermediate timescales could have already been operative in prebiotic systems. They may have facilitated and constrained changes occurring in the faster- and slower-paced timescales of chemical self-individuation and evolution by natural selection, respectively.Comment: 29 pages, 5 figures, Artificial Lif

Complexity, strategic thinking and organisational change

Comparative considerations of strategy from complexity paradigm and Newtonian paradigm perspectives are discussed in the light of three ideological dispositions towards the future. We term them defensive, opportunist, and goal oriented. Over the years, the strategy literature has identified a number of strategic archetypes (e.g. Miller and Freisen, 1978). What is interesting from our point of view is the patterns of reasoning that underpin them. The study of ideology has identified qualitative patterns of reasoning which underpin different types of strategic decision in both the fields of politics and strategic management. This paper considers three patterns of reasoning and considers how they relate to the complexity and Newtonian paradigms

Managerial commitment towards SPI in small and very small enterprises

This paper compares and contrasts the results of two similar studies into the software process practices in Irish Small and Very Small Enterprises. The first study contains rich findings in relation to the role and influence of managerial experience and style, with particular respect to the company founder and software development managers in small to medium seized enterprises (SMEs), whilst the second study contains extensive findings in relation to people and management involvement / commitment and SPI goal planning in very small enterprises (VSEs). By combining these results of these two studies of Irish SMEs/VSEs we can develop a rich picture of managerial commitment towards SPI and in particular explore the similarities between Small and Very Small Enterprises

Interpreting employment policy change in Italy since the 1990s: nature and dynamics

This paper analyzes the evolution of employment policy in Italy, focusing on the period from the mid-1990s to the economic crisis started in 2008. Two aspects of the policy change process are taken into consideration: its nature and its dynamics. As regards the former, three dimensions - strategic, distributive and organizational - are singled out in order to analyze the specific employment policy reforms occurred in the period taken into account. A framework is then developed for the interpretation and explanation of the dynamics of change, based on causal sequences identified by the combination of politico-institutional factors, and a preliminary appraisal of the impact of reforms on the pre-existing institutional configuration is provided. The paper concludes focusing on the shortcomings of the reform process, and highlighting foreseeable directions of future change.employment policy, policy change, veto opportunities, unemployment benefits, active labour market policies, employment protection legislation

HRM in Multinationals’ Operations in China: Business, People, and HR Issues

This paper presents the results of a study on the HR function in the Chinese operations of large multinational companies. Surveys of both line and HR executives in these firms were conducted. Results reveal that line executives are more sensitive than HR executives to criticality of people management issues as business issues, and that they see HR\u27s strategic orientation as the most critical area for improvement. The challenges and opportunities implied by these results are discussed

Users’ Perceptions about 21st Century University Libraries in the Federal Capital of Pakistan: Current Status and a Way Forward

Aim The aim of this research is to investigate and explore the users’ perception about the 21st century university libraries in the federal capital of Pakistan. The study examines the current status of available resources, services and facilities in the university libraries along with the incorporation of technological advances and level of satisfaction of library users regarding the available infrastructure. Methods Research methodology used in this study with a mixed method approach including the quantitative research method and qualitative research method. Questionnaire having the structure of open ended and closed ended question was used a data collection tool in quantitative research method while face to face interaction with the respondents through interviews was done in qualitative research method for the collection of data. Results The current measures being taken by library professionals are to encourage sustainable evolution, novel growth, user’s satisfaction and to pave the way for making the 21st century academic libraries. The organizational learning traits, in academic libraries of federal capital, is gaining momentum which is a good indication towards adopting user-focused type of resources, new techniques, mechanisms, technologies and tools. Apparently, in this research study, only the case of academic libraries in the federal capital of Pakistan was taken, but in the large scenario it also symbolizes the insight of other academic libraries of Pakistan and rest of the world as well for remodeling the traditional professional methodology to the 21st century vision of academic libraries. Conclusions This study concludes that, academic libraries, around the globe are adjusting and reshaping their resources, services, facilities and infrastructure in line with user requirements and their contemporary technologies. University libraries, in the federal capital of Pakistan, are at forefront to be shaped as the 21st century academic libraries of Pakistan