bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Perceived employability among master’s students in Hong Kong
Authors: Jung Jisun , Li Xiaoshi 
Published: January 2024

PurposeMany master’s students enrol in coursework-based programmes to improve their professional knowledge and skills for the job market. Most studies of employability in higher education focus on undergraduates rather than master’s students, although the number of master’s students worldwide has increased significantly in recent years. This study explores the factors involved in the perceived employability (PE) of master’s students in Hong Kong.Design/methodology/approachThe authors first proposed a conceptual model of PE based on the social cognitive career theory. Using survey data from 786 master’s students in Hong Kong, the authors applied descriptive statistics and an ordinary least squares (OLS) regression to address the following research questions: How do master’s students gauge their PE? How do person, learning and environment variables influence the PE of master’s students?FindingsThe authors found that PE is influenced by students' approaches to learning and their institutional career support.Originality/valueFew studies examined whether students' learning experiences during the master’s programmes influence their employability. This study highlights the importance of learning experiences and career support in coursework-based master’s programmes for enhancing graduate employability.
“This is my hill to die on”: effects of far-right conservative pushback on US English teachers and their classroom practice
Authors: Borsheim-Black Carlin 
Published: January 2024

Purpose
From book challenges to anti–critical race theory and anti-lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning legislation, US English teachers have been on the receiving end of a considerable amount of far-right conservative pushback. This study aims to explore the effects of conservative pushback on individual English teachers and their classroom practice. What pushbacks have individual English teachers faced? How has pushback impacted their teaching? What strategies have they developed for navigating pushback?

Design/methodology/approach
This qualitative study explores secondary English teachers’ reported experiences with conservative backlash as reported in 15 semi-structured interviews conducted between May 2022 and August 2023.

Findings
Participants reported feeling the pressure of increased levels of pushback, and many reported censoring their book selections to avoid additional public scrutiny. At the same time, they also described a range of strategies they have developed for protecting themselves and their practice, such as codifying curriculum, increasing transparency, formalizing review processes for challenging books and strengthening their resolve to resist.

Originality/value
This study offers a timely window on a pressing problem affecting the daily practice of English teachers in the USA.
Factors associated with non-treatment for long-term illness among incarcerated individuals
Authors: Nieto-Gutiérrez Wendy , Cvetković-Vega Aleksandar , Cáceres-Távara María E. , Ponce-Torres Christian 
Published: January 2024

PurposeThe prison population is seldom studied and often overlooked in many countries despite their vulnerability to long-term illness. This study aims to explore the factors associated with the non-treatment for long-term illnesses among incarcerated individuals.Design/methodology/approachThis study is a cross-sectional analysis. The authors conducted a secondary data analysis using information collected in the Peruvian census of incarcerated individuals. The study population consisted of incarcerated individuals diagnosed with a long-term illness. To evaluate the factors associated with non-treatment, the authors used a Poisson regression model.FindingsThe authors included 12,512 incarcerated individuals (age: 40.9 ± 13.1 years), and 39% of them did not receive treatment for their long-term illness. The authors observed that non-treatment was statistically associated with gender, age, having children, use of the Spanish language, sexual identity, judicial situation, penitentiary location, discrimination inside the penitentiary and health insurance before incarceration. However, only having children (prevalence ratio [PR]: 1.11, confidence interval [CI]95% 1.03–1.19), using the Spanish language (PR: 1.15, CI95%: 1.01–1.31), being in a penitentiary not in Lima (PR: 1.11, CI95%: 1.06–1.17) and perceiving discrimination inside the penitentiary (PR: 1.12, CI95% 1.06–1.18) increased the prevalence of non-treatment.Originality/valueIdentifying the factors associated with non-treatment will allow us to implement measures for prioritizing groups and developing strategies for the evaluation, close follow-up of their health and management of comorbidities.
Strategic renewal of family firms to face vulnerability risks during times of crisis
Authors: Gómez Juan M. , Rodríguez Yeny E. 
Published: January 2024

PurposeThis study aims to unveil the impact of strategic renewal and its implications on employment during the COVID-19 pandemic. It explores the role of strategic renewal in mitigating the adverse effects of crises, fostering organizational adaptation and restructuring capabilities. Additionally, it examines the moderating effect of familiness on understanding the strategic renewal process and its importance to family firms during times of crisis.Design/methodology/approachThe study utilizes data from the STEP Project Global Consortium, which collected information from 3,026 family firms operating in 75 countries and various sectors during the pandemic. Structural Equation Modeling was employed to test the authors' research hypotheses.FindingsThe authors' results reveal that strategic renewal significantly impacted employment growth during the COVID-19 pandemic of family firms. Strategic renewal plays a crucial role in mitigating the negative effects of that crisis on employment by helping firms adapt and restructure their capabilities. The study also found that synergies among family members positively influenced innovation in organizational resilience and enhanced the positive effects of strategic renewal on employment growth.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the literature by emphasizing the importance of strategic renewal of family businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. It offers insights into mitigating vulnerability risks amidst crises and adds to the understanding of the strategic renewal process and its implications for the organizations. The findings hold theoretical implications for the field of strategic management and provide valuable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by family firms in uncertain environments.Peer reviewThe peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-11-2022-0771
A dynamic parameter identification method for the 5-DOF hybrid robot based on sensitivity analysis
Authors: Luo Zaihua , Xiao Juliang , Liu Sijiang , Wang Mingli , Zhao Wei , Liu Haitao 
Published: January 2024

Purpose
This paper aims to propose a dynamic parameter identification method based on sensitivity analysis for the 5-degree of freedom (DOF) hybrid robots, to solve the problems of too many identification parameters, complex model, difficult convergence of optimization algorithms and easy-to-fall into a locally optimal solution, and improve the efficiency and accuracy of dynamic parameter identification.

Design/methodology/approach
First, the dynamic parameter identification model of the 5-DOF hybrid robot was established based on the principle of virtual work. Then, the sensitivity of the parameters to be identified is analyzed by Sobol’s sensitivity method and verified by simulation. Finally, an identification strategy based on sensitivity analysis was designed, experiments were carried out on the real robot and the results were verified.

Findings
Compared with the traditional full-parameter identification method, the dynamic parameter identification method based on sensitivity analysis proposed in this paper converges faster when optimized using the genetic algorithm, and the identified dynamic model has higher prediction accuracy for joint drive forces and torques than the full-parameter identification models.

Originality/value
This work analyzes the sensitivity of the parameters to be identified in the dynamic parameter identification model for the first time. Then a parameter identification method is proposed based on the results of the sensitivity analysis, which can effectively reduce the parameters to be identified, simplify the identification model, accelerate the convergence of the optimization algorithm and improve the prediction accuracy of the identified model for the joint driving forces and torques.
Beyond the seams: evaluating competitiveness and comparative advantage in Vietnam’s apparel industry
Authors: Hasan Md Rokibul , Swazan Ishtehar Sharif , Das Debanjan 
Published: January 2024

Purpose
This study aims to examine the export competitiveness of Vietnam’s apparel sector by identifying the precise product categories that create its comparative advantage.

Design/methodology/approach
Revealed comparative advantage (RCA) and normalized revealed comparative advantage (NRCA) form the research methodology, and the RCA/NRCA values are calculated for the 2011–2020 period.

Findings
In total, 29 out of 34 product categories at four-digit levels and 65 out of 217 subcategories at six-digit levels elicited a consistent export comparative advantage throughout the 10-year study timeframe. The study also identified 13 subcategories at six-digit levels, which indicated 10 consecutive years of relative disadvantages.

Research limitations/implications
The study’s findings have far-reaching implications for economic policy, development strategies and global economic integration. By providing a nuanced understanding of a country’s export strengths in the international apparel trade, this study offers valuable guidance for informed decision-making at various levels. The findings will serve as a significant source of information for policymakers and help them formulate novel policies aiming to diversify Vietnam’s apparel product offerings and export destinations. The results will also inform the government regarding the industry’s potential and attract necessary support, enabling it to grow further. This study reveals patterns in Vietnam’s apparel trade but does not provide insights into the underlying causes of comparative advantage.

Originality/value
The study provides an in-depth overview of Vietnam’s comparative advantages and disadvantages at two-, four- and six-digit harmonized system levels and helps understand Vietnam’s apparel export competitiveness.
Estimating non‐market values of protecting groundwater in a constrained environment
Authors: Lan Le , Iftekhar Md Sayed , Schilizzi Steven , Fogarty James 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIn groundwater‐constrained areas, reallocating groundwater away from agriculture to achieve environmental outcomes has become a popular top‐down regulatory approach. However, little attention has been paid to understanding public preferences for such policies. Using a choice experiment, we explore community preferences for different components of a groundwater allocation management program affecting agriculture in a severely water‐constrained but highly groundwater‐dependent environment, Western Australia. We find strong community preferences for a substantial reallocation away from agriculture, with compensation based on ecological benefits, regular monitoring through meters and a medium‐level penalty for those that over‐extract. The estimated non‐market value to implement a groundwater management program comprising the preferred structure is up to AU$61 million per year. This result demonstrates the value of considering community preferences when designing groundwater management policies.
A pound for information or a penny for cure: Farmers' economic decisions on testing and treatment of livestock diseases
Authors: Aklilu Abenezer Zeleke , Elofsson Katarina , Halvarsson Peter , Kjellander Petter , Höglund Johan 
Published: January 2024

AbstractLivestock productivity and profitability are threatened by livestock diseases. In this study, we examine farmers' revealed preferences for testing and treating gastrointestinal parasites in sheep in Sweden, taking into account the sequential structure of these decisions. We control for preventive measures, as well as the potential impact of wildlife–livestock disease transmission on farmers' decisions. A zero‐inflated ordered probit model is used to estimate the determinants of farmers' decisions, and we cross‐validate the robustness of the results to alternative model assumptions. Results from the regressions are used to calculate the consequences of these choices for farmers' profits. The results show that treatment decisions are informed by faecal testing, while both testing and treatment are influenced by the grazing practices, the size of the operation and access to information. Contrary to expectations from the conceptual framework, preventive management practices are positively correlated with treatment. Farmers take multiple risk factors into account when deciding on testing, but we do not find that the same factors affect the outcome of treatment. The economic impacts are small and suggest that treatment without prior testing is more profitable for the farmer than informed treatment. If widespread treatment increases drug resistance, this could motivate policies that encourage testing.
Trans feminism and the women's liberation movement in Britain, c. 1970–1980
Authors: Caslin Sam 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe history of the British women's liberation movement (WLM) is a growing field of study, but it has had little to say about trans participants in the movement. Drawing on feminist and LGBT+ archives and interviews, this article argues that while trans acceptance in ‘women‐only’ groups was not guaranteed during the period between 1970 and 1980, trans and cis feminists worked together to advance feminist positions on bodily autonomy and to develop critiques of medical authority. In doing so, this article demonstrates that it is ahistorical to approach trans rights and women's liberation as distinct from one another.
Effectiveness and safety of plasma exchange for anti‐MDA5 antibody–positive clinically amyopathic dermatomyositis with rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease refractory to intensive immune suppression therapy: A case series
Authors: Watanabe Tomoka , Taniguchi Misaki , Ogura Sanae , Asou Mea , Takayanagi Shunsuke , Sokai Yuko , Tsuji Yoshiki , Mori Keita P. , Endo Tomomi , Nakajima Toshiki , Imura Yoshitaka , Tsukamoto Tatsuo 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIntroductionClinically amyopathic dermatomyositis (CADM) with anti‐melanoma differentiation‐associated gene 5 (MDA5) antibody (Ab) with rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease (RP‐ILD) is often refractory for intensive immunosuppression. In this study, we verified the effectiveness and safety of plasma exchange (PEx) for this lethal disease.MethodsWe retrospectively examined the clinical course and adverse effect (AE) of 12 patients with anti‐MDA5 Ab–positive CADM between January 2017 and December 2021 in our hospital.ResultsFive out of six patients treated with simple PEx using fresh frozen plasma or 5% albumin survived with or without home oxygen therapy. Multiple PEx (15–20 times) were required to achieve satisfactory improvement as well as remission of CADM. The AEs caused by PEx were resolved using conventional methods.ConclusionPEx might be a promising option for controlling the disease activity of anti‐MDA5 Ab–positive CADM with severe RP‐ILD and may contribute to better survival.
The production of ultrahigh molecular weight xanthan gum from a Sphingomonas chassis capable of co‐utilising glucose and xylose from corn straw
Authors: Wu Mengmeng , Shi Zhuangzhuang , Ming Yue , Zhao Yufei , Gao Ge , Li Guoqiang , Ma Ting 
Published: January 2024

AbstractCorn straw is an abundant and renewable alternative for microbial biopolymer production. In this paper, an engineered Sphingomonas sanxanigenens NXG‐P916 capable of co‐utilising glucose and xylose from corn straw total hydrolysate to produce xanthan gum was constructed. This strain was obtained by introducing the xanthan gum synthetic operon gum as a module into the genome of the constructed chassis strain NXdPE that could mass produce activated precursors of polysaccharide, and in which the transcriptional levels of gum genes were optimised by screening for a more appropriate promoter, P916. As a result, strain NXG‐P916 produced 9.48 ± 0.34 g of xanthan gum per kg of fermentation broth (g/kg) when glucose was used as a carbon source, which was 2.1 times improved over the original engineering strain NXdPE::gum. Furthermore, in batch fermentation, 12.72 ± 0.75 g/kg xanthan gum was produced from the corn straw total hydrolysate containing both glucose and xylose, and the producing xanthan gum showed an ultrahigh molecular weight (UHMW) of 6.04 × 107 Da, which was increased by 15.8 times. Therefore, the great potential of producing UHMW xanthan gum by Sphingomonas sanxanigenens was proved, and the chassis NXdPE has the prospect of becoming an attractive platform organism producing polysaccharides derived from biomass hydrolysates.
Microbial evolution through horizontal gene transfer by mobile genetic elements
Authors: Tokuda Maho , Shintani Masaki 
Published: January 2024

AbstractMobile genetic elements (MGEs) are crucial for horizontal gene transfer (HGT) in bacteria and facilitate their rapid evolution and adaptation. MGEs include plasmids, integrative and conjugative elements, transposons, insertion sequences and bacteriophages. Notably, the spread of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs), which poses a serious threat to public health, is primarily attributable to HGT through MGEs. This mini‐review aims to provide an overview of the mechanisms by which MGEs mediate HGT in microbes. Specifically, the behaviour of conjugative plasmids in different environments and conditions was discussed, and recent methodologies for tracing the dynamics of MGEs were summarised. A comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying HGT and the role of MGEs in bacterial evolution and adaptation is important to develop strategies to combat the spread of ARGs.
Estimated glucose disposal rate predicts the risk of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in type 2 diabetes: A 5‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Zhang Yuanpin , Sun Wanwan , Zhang Qi , Bai Yuetian , Ji Lijin , Zheng Hangping , Zhu Xiaoming , Liu Xiaoxia , Zhang Shuo , Xiong Qian , Li Yiming , Chen Lili , Lu Bin 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBackgroundInsulin resistance is associated with chronic complications of diabetes, including diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). Estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR), calculated by the common available clinical factors, was proved to be an excellent tool to measure insulin resistance in large patient population. Few studies have explored the association between eGDR and DPN longitudinally. Therefore, we performed the current study to analyze whether eGDR could predict the risk of DPN.MethodsIn this prospective study, 366 type 2 diabetes (T2DM) subjects without DPN were enrolled from six communities in Shanghai in 2011–2014 and followed up until 2019–2020. Neuropathy was assessed by Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MSNI) at baseline and at the end of follow‐up.FindingsAfter 5.91 years, 198 of 366 participants progressed to DPN according to MNSI examination scores. The incidence of DPN in the low baseline eGDR (eGDR < 9.15) group was significantly higher than in the high baseline eGDR (eGDR ≥ 9.15) group (62.37% vs. 45.56%, p = .0013). The incidence of DPN was significantly higher in patients with sustained lower eGDR level (63.69%) compared with those with sustained higher eGDR level (35.80%). Subjects with low baseline eGDR (eGDR < 9.15) had significantly higher risk of DPN at the end of follow‐up (odds ratio = 1.75), even after adjusting for other known DPN risk factors.ConclusionsThe 5‐year follow‐up study highlights the importance of insulin resistance represented by eGDR in the development of DPN in T2DM. Diabetic patients with low eGDR are more prone to DPN and, therefore, require more intensive screening and more attention.image
Downregulation of pattern recognition receptors on macrophages involved in aggravation of endometriosis
Authors: Shiraishi Tatsunori , Ikeda Mariko , Watanabe Takami , Negishi Yasuyuki , Ichikawa Go , Kaseki Hanako , Akira Shigeo , Morita Rimpei , Suzuki Shunji 
Published: January 2024

AbstractProblemIn women of reproductive age, endometriosis may contribute to dysmenorrhea, chronic pelvic pain, dyspareunia, infertility, adenomyosis, and endometrial ovarian cyst (EOC). Recent studies have shown that chronic inflammation occurs in the pelvis of endometriosis patients and that this inflammation is exacerbated by immunosuppression, leading to survival endometrial debris. However, the detailed immunological mechanisms underlying the aggravation of inflammation and immunosuppression in endometriosis patients remain unclear.Method of StudyWe investigate the alarmins (high‐mobility group box‐1, IL‐33, IL‐1α, and S100B protein), proinflammatory cytokines (IL‐6 and IL‐1β), and immune cells (CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, natural killer cells, natural killer T cells, dendritic cells, and macrophages) in peritoneal fluid of patients with EOC using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, electrochemiluminescence, and flow cytometry. Then, we analyzed the correlation between these factors and the aggravating indicators of endometriosis, tumor size and revised American Society for Reproductive Medicine (r‐ASRM) score.ResultsUnexpectedly, there was no correlation between each alarmin level and aggravating indicators. However, the expression of pattern recognition receptors, toll‐like receptor 4, and receptor of advanced glycation end‐products on macrophages was inversely correlated with aggravating indicators.ConclusionsThe aggravation of endometriosis is associated with a decrease in alarmin receptors but not alarmin levels. Investigation of innate immune systems, such as alarmins and their receptors, may help elucidate new mechanisms of endometriosis.