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This article argues that corporate financial frictions can have an adverse effect on employee mental health, an important determinant of employee productivity. To identify the causal effects of financial frictions, we exploit variation in firms' need to refinance their long-term debt in 2008, a period when refinancing became more difficult due to the credit crunch. Using administrative microdata, we find that antidepressant use grows significantly more among employees of firms in higher need of debt refinancing. Much of this effect occurs at employees keeping their jobs, pointing to decreased perceptions of job security as a transmission channel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human resource (HR) managers hire conscientious employees because they are both productive and are viewed as upholding high ethical standards due to their propensity to engage in voice. Organizations may strive to create a work context conducive to all employees acting ethically, not just conscientious ones, by centralizing decision‐making authority and promoting formalization through a higher hierarchy of authority. Yet, we propose that from the social information processing perspective, in higher hierarchy of authority contexts, peers may view their highly conscientious colleagues as less ethical. We hypothesize these effects through the lens of trait activation theory, according to which in a higher hierarchy of authority context, others are less likely to notice the voice behaviors of conscientious employees. Problematically, when others fail to notice conscientious employees' voice, they may perceive these workers as being less ethical. We tested our hypothesized moderated mediation model in a matched sample of employees (N = 820), their supervisors (N = 445), and peers (N = 529). As predicted, hierarchy of authority moderated the positive relationship between conscientiousness and voice, which in turn explained others' perceptions of their ethicality. Conscientiousness was positively related to peer assessments of ethicality via promotive (not prohibitive) voice when hierarchy of authority was lower (but not higher), partially supporting our hypotheses. These results suggest HR practitioners should be cognizant of the differential evaluations of highly conscientious employees in contexts with different levels of hierarchy of authority, and continuing challenges associated with balancing flexibility and formalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brokerage in intra-organizational networks is critical to performance, but women exhibit less brokerage in their social networks and receive lower performance returns to the brokerage they exhibit than men do. We uncover a condition under which the gender gaps in network advantage are entirely negated: mobility. When women move between units of the organization, they increase their brokerage more than mobile men do. Further, such mobility eliminates the gender gap in returns to brokerage. Using a rich dataset including the personnel records, monthly performance, and email communications of thousands of employees in a large financial institution, we find support for our arguments by comparing the networks and objective performance of those who changed jobs with matched non-movers prior to and following each job change. In probing why this might be the case, we find that women movers are more likely to maintain communication ties to colleagues from their previous roles and that these persistent ties give them a discernible and gender-role-congruent explanation for connecting otherwise disconnected units and benefiting from network brokerage. Our results illuminate important mechanisms by which social network dynamics and mobility affect gender inequality and performance in organizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To operationalize the extent to which firms place a strategic emphasis on human capital and human resource management (HRM), we draw on the strategy field's dominant logic theory and on the emerging literature on executive compensation for the heads of major firm functions, such as HRM. Specifically, we investigate whether the pay of human resource executives (HREs) relative to other members of top management teams (TMTs) is related to firm performance. After controlling for the endogeneity of HRE status as one of the highest paid executives on the TMT, we find in a comprehensive sample of the largest US firms that HRE relative pay is positively related to firm financial performance, specifically Tobin's Q. We also find that the relationship of HRE relative pay with Tobin's Q is stronger in relatively smaller and younger firms in our sample. The findings suggest that a strategic emphasis on human capital and HRM leads to higher firm value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The benefits of internal labor markets are largest when they include industries that utilize similar worker skills, thereby facilitating cross-industry worker reallocation and collaboration. We show that diversifying acquisitions occur more frequently among industry pairs with higher human capital transferability. Such acquisitions result in larger labor productivity gains and are less often undone in subsequent divestitures. Moreover, acquirers retain more high-skill workers and more often transfer workers to jobs in other industries inside the merged firm. Overall, our results link human capital reallocation with the value created by corporate diversification and provide an explanation for seemingly unrelated acquisitions. Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix , which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The majority of warehouse expenses is driven by labour cost. Therefore, efficient management of labour resources is required. To do so, workforce planning is used to match the workforce capacity with the incoming workload. While doing so, it is often wrongly assumed that each worker has the same and constant capacity or performance. Addressing this, we build a model to predict the employee-based productivity of newly hired warehouse personnel that will support workforce planning by incorporating multiple data sources. To this end,wedevelop a framework to identify relevant variables in four categories: warehouse, operator, shift and product. We demonstrate that Extreme Gradient Boosting, using these variables may reduce the root mean squared error of the prediction by more than 50%. A comprehensive scenario analysis shows that improving productivity predictions translates into substantial cost savings. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis identifies which variable categories should be favoured in the data collection process to achieve the best prediction results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrating the theory of workplace deviance with person–environment fit theory, we propose a two‐pathway model to explain why and how employees who feel overqualified engage in time theft behavior. Specifically, we anticipate that feeling overqualified will negatively influence focal employees' experienced authority fairness and erode their work meaningfulness, which in turn will lead to increased time theft behavior. Further, we argue that voice endorsement serves as a key boundary condition mitigating the negative effects of perceived overqualification. We conducted two multi‐waved and multi‐sourced field studies to test our proposed hypotheses. Study 1 (247 employees and 47 supervisors) revealed that perceived overqualification is associated with time theft behavior through the mediators of experienced authority fairness and meaningfulness. Study 2 (405 employees and 73 supervisors) replicated the findings of Study 1 and tested our full model. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the potential of language models such as ChatGPT to transform library cataloging. Through experiments with ChatGPT, the author demonstrates its ability to generate accurate MARC records using RDA and other standards such as the Dublin Core Metadata Element Set. These results demonstrate the potential of ChatGPT as a tool for streamlining the record creation process and improving efficiency in library settings. The use of AI-generated records, however, also raises important questions related to intellectual property rights and bias. The paper reviews recent studies on AI in libraries and concludes that further research and development of this innovative technology is necessary to ensure its responsible implementation in the field of library cataloging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For any business to serve and satisfy both customers and employees, employee productivity is essential. Leveraging the full potential of their workforce, ensuring long-term gains in productivity, and fostering a culture of ongoing improvement for the purpose of attaining organizational excellence. This study seeks to describe the level of employees' commitment, job satisfaction, teamwork, and training on productivity. After scientific validation and reliability tests, questionnaires were used as data-gathering tools. Data for this descriptive correlational and causal research design was employed for the study and purposive sampling was done in choosing the participants gathered from the 518 staff and faculty members in Higher Education Institution. Results revealed that employee productivity was positively correlated with other variables, indicating that high productivity levels were associated with higher levels of commitment, job satisfaction, effective teamwork, and training initiative benefits. Nonetheless, Higher Education employees' productivity is significantly influenced by teamwork and training. This means that when there is teamwork among the employees and top management, and employees are provided with relevant training, employees' productivity will significantly increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For any business to effectively serve and satisfy both its customers and employees, it is crucial to ensure high employee productivity. This involves maximizing the potential of the workforce, securing long-term productivity improvements, and nurturing a culture of continuous enhancement to achieve organizational excellence. This study aims to create a structural model that examines the impact of employee commitment, job satisfaction, teamwork, and training on productivity. After conducting scientific validation and reliability tests, questionnaires were utilized as the primary data collection method. The research, which employed a descriptive-correlational and causal-comparative design, gathered data from 518 staff and faculty members at a Higher Education Institution. The findings revealed a positive correlation between employee productivity and other variables, showing that higher productivity levels are linked to greater commitment, job satisfaction, effective teamwork, and the benefits of training initiatives. However, the productivity of Higher Education employees is particularly influenced by teamwork and training. This suggests that when there is collaboration between employees and management, and employees receive relevant training, productivity significantly increases. Ultimately, the fifth structural model best explains the relationship between teamwork, training, and employee productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study is about the lived experiences of professionals working from home and how it's affecting their work productivity and well-being. Interpretative phenomenological analysis design was utilized in this study and purposive sampling was used for the respondents. Seven professionals from various fields of work in Metro Manila were the respondents of the research, all of them working full-time work from home, which also serves as the homogeneity that is needed for this chosen research design. Interviews through Zoom were conducted in order to acquire the information relevant to the study. The researchers utilized a researcher-made 15-item open-ended questionnaire that was validated by experts in the field of research and psychology as a theme, workplace productivity while working from home, the impact of working from home on well-being, and the importance of having a dedicated workplace at home. The results also concluded that the work-from-home setup had both positive and negative effects on employees. It gives employees a convenient working environment that allows them to work flexibly. In such settings, however, employees also tend to feel isolated and technologically inadequate. Employees tend to be more productive in WFH settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease, affects millions of people worldwide. It imposes a significant burden on patients' quality of life and healthcare systems, creating an urgent need for optimized diagnosis, treatment, and management. In recent years, image-based artificial intelligence (AI) applications have emerged as promising tools to assist physicians by offering improved accuracy and efficiency. In this review, we provide an overview of the current landscape of image-based AI applications in psoriasis. Emphasis is placed on machine learning (ML) algorithms, a key subset of AI, which enable automated pattern recognition for various tasks. Key AI applications in psoriasis include lesion detection and segmentation, differentiation from other skin conditions, subtype identification, automated area involvement, and severity scoring, as well as personalized treatment selection and response prediction. Furthermore, we discuss two commercially available systems that utilize standardized photo documentation, automated segmentation, and semi-automated Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) calculation for patient assessment and follow-up. Despite the promise of AI in this field, many challenges remain. These include the validation of current models, integration into clinical workflows, the current lack of diversity in training-set data, and the need for standardized imaging protocols. Addressing these issues is crucial for the successful implementation of AI technologies in clinical practice. Overall, we underscore the potential of AI to revolutionize psoriasis management, highlighting both the advancements and the hurdles that need to be overcome. As technology continues to evolve, AI is expected to significantly improve the accuracy, efficiency, and personalization of psoriasis treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Collaboration among scholars in scientific research is increasingly common, making it important to address how to recommend suitable collaborators, especially for their first cooperation. To address this issue, this study focuses on 1487 core scholars in the field of library and information science in China, and then analyzes the impact of academic differences between these scholars in their first collaboration by using the propensity matching score method. It uncovers potential driving factors for scholars to reach first collaborations, including similar research productivity, contrasting academic influence, aligned research directions, and distinct research focuses. Then, the distribution of features of three types of first cooperation demonstrates that if one or both partners publish the first paper in this collaboration, the collaborative relationship tends to be more enduring and stable. In addition, the subsequent collaboration of scholars and the change in their academic differences are related to the initial academic differences between the two parties in the first collaboration. These patterns can be used to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of the scholar recommendation mechanism, hence promoting research collaboration and knowledge exchange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geroscience and philosophy of aging have tended to focus their analyses on the biological and chronological dimensions of aging. Namely, one ages with the passage of time and by experiencing the cellular‐molecular deterioration that accompanies this process. However, our concept of aging depends decisively on the social valuations held about it. In this article, we will argue that, if we study social aging in the contemporary world, a novel phenomenon can be identified: the paradox of aging in the digital era. If the social understanding of aging today is linked to unproductivity and obsolescence; then there is a possibility that, given the pace of change of digital technologies, we become obsolete at an early chronological and biological age, and therefore, feel old at a younger age. First, we will present the social dimension of aging based on Rowe and Kahn's model of successful aging. We will also show that their notion of social aging hardly considers structural aspects and weakens their approach. Second, departing from social aging in its structural sense, we will develop the paradox of aging in the digital era. On the one hand, we will explain how the institutionalization of aging has occurred in modern societies and how it is anchored in the concepts of obsolescence and productivity. On the other hand, we will state the kind of obsolescence that digitalization produces and argue that it can make cohorts of biologically and chronologically young individuals obsolete, and thus they would be personally and socially perceived as old. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder of gut–brain interaction characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, with patient‐perceived dissatisfaction of treatment symptom control. We assessed disease burden, satisfaction with medication use, and impact on activities, in participants with IBS with constipation (IBS‐C) and diarrhea (IBS‐D). Methods: This study assessed data from a large, United States survey of adults querying demographics, comorbid conditions, quality of life, medication use, satisfaction with symptom control, and work productivity. Participants were grouped into the IBS‐C or IBS‐D cohort if they met Rome IV criteria, with controls matched 1:1 according to age, sex, race, region, and Charlson Comorbidity Index score. All data were self‐reported. Key Results: Nine hundred and ten participants with IBS‐C and 669 with IBS‐D were matched to controls. The most reported symptoms were abdominal discomfort for IBS‐C and abdominal pain and abdominal discomfort for IBS‐D. Among the IBS‐C and IBS‐D cohorts, 74.2% and 65.9%, respectively, took prescription and/or over‐the‐counter medication for their symptoms. Respondents were more dissatisfied than satisfied with control of their symptoms. Respondents taking prescription medication(s) with or without over‐the‐counter medication(s) reported better symptom control than respondents only taking over‐the‐counter medications (p < 0.001). There was significantly higher mean presenteeism, work productivity loss, and daily activity impairment (p < 0.001 for all) in respondents with IBS compared with controls. Conclusions and Inferences: This study provides insight into respondents' experiences of IBS symptoms, including the impact on daily activity, as well as satisfaction with control of symptoms and prescription and over‐the‐counter medications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry in the US faces increasing labor shortages while accumulating downward productivity trends. Previous research efforts have shown that lack of timely access to information is one of the main factors hindering construction workers' productivity, and prompt information extraction (IE) from BIM sources can help address this issue. This study develops a BIM-web interoperable system, featuring a voice-based intelligent virtual agent (VIVA), to provide workers with information on-demand when conducting their activities on the jobsite. VIVA integrates construction digital sources with web platforms to enable real-time data communication between the users, workers in this case, and BIM platforms. The voice interaction feature of VIVA provides an intuitive and safe tool that can easily be used by workers with varying ranges of experience, with minimal need for training. The responsiveness and accuracy of VIVA is evaluated through two proof-of-concept case studies. Results indicate that the BIM-VIVA link and underlying natural language understanding (NLU) algorithms in the Google Actions platform accurately understand user queries, with a performance of 97.50% correct responses. As a result, VIVA achieves superior performance compared with previous research works based on NLU algorithms with text-based queries. The developments made in this research not only contribute to improving the safety and productivity of construction workers but also can open the door for easier onboarding of less-experienced workers, thus addressing the industry's severe skilled labor shortage issue. Practical Applications: This study introduces an innovative web-based system featuring VIVA to address the pressing labor shortage and diminishing productivity in the AEC industry. VIVA seamlessly integrates construction digital sources with web platforms, enabling real-time communication with construction workers and facilitating their on-demand information retrieval. The intuitive voice interaction feature of VIVA offers a safe and easily navigable tool that demands minimal training for workers with diverse backgrounds and experience levels. This feature also makes VIVA a practical tool for hands-free communication and information retrieval on jobsites, which minimizes the imposed distraction inherent in technological solutions. Construction workers can use voice commands to access project plans, schedules, and safety protocols, allowing them to retrieve critical information without having to stop work or use their hands. This intuitive interface reduces the need for complex user interfaces or manual input, making it easier for workers to interact with technology while focusing on their tasks. Hence, VIVA promises to improve productivity and safety of diverse group of workers without causing distraction or safety issues itself, which is a common concern when implementing technology to assist workers in hazardous and ever-changing construction jobsites. Beyond enhancing safety and productivity, widespread use of VIVA can help address the AEC sector's severe skilled labor shortage by providing an accessible means to onboard less-experienced workers. As such, VIVA provides opportunities to augment efficiency for seasonal/nonnative workers, thus facilitating the integration of a broader workforce and addressing the industry's pressing labor challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: As sustainable performance has a central role in the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) performance literature, this study aims to examine the influence of networking capabilities in enhancing sustainable performance through knowledge workers' productivity and digital innovation. It also examines the sequential mediating role of knowledge workers' productivity and digital innovation on networking capabilities and SMEs' sustainable performance relationship. Design/methodology/approach: Data were collected from 308 knowledge workers in the information technology sector and analyzed using the Hayes Process Macro bootstrapping method to test the proposed hypotheses. Findings: Results indicate that knowledge workers' productivity and digital innovation individually and sequentially mediate the relationship between networking capabilities and SME's sustainable (economic and environmental) performance, surprisingly, they do not act as a mediator between networking capability and SME's social performance. SMEs should prioritize investments in the professional development of their knowledge workers through training and skill enhancement programs. This investment equips knowledge workers with the tools to effectively use the knowledge and resources acquired through networking. Thus, knowledge workers may improve performance by using these resources to tackle challenges. Research limitations/implications: Although this research focused on this specific context, it is prudent to acknowledge that additional factors may also exert influence on sustainable performance within SMEs, factors that managers may consider when making decisions. Methodologically, the cross-sectional design of this research poses a potential limitation, as it does not allow for the complete elimination of endogeneity concerns. However, it is worth noting that scholars have endorsed the use of cross-sectional data in cases where management researchers aim to expand beyond well-documented and longitudinal data sets. Practical implications: This research offers practical recommendations for SMEs to improve their sustainable performance through networking. SMEs should seek partnerships with complementary knowledge to improve operations and for other performance-oriented benefits. Originality/value: This study adds significantly to the literature on sustainable SME performance by studying the interdependent effects of networking capabilities. It also represents the individual and sequential mediation mechanism that links networking capabilities to SME success through knowledge worker productivity and digital innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In sub-Saharan Africa, Ghana is recognized as one of the countries undergoing rapid economic transformation. Drawing on an agricultural transformation framework, this study sheds light on the current farm and nonfarm developments in the cassava subsector in five communities across four districts in Ghana. Using a qualitative exploratory research design based on field-work surveys, the study identifies several factors that together showcase manifestations of a transformation process in the studied areas. These include a combination of growing farm sizes, use of new technologies, higher productivity, expanding market opportunities, increased profitability, improved lives and livelihoods, and changing labour structures. These micro-level findings allow the study to offer a richer understanding of dynamics of change underway that could complement macro-oriented analyses of agricultural transformation in Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Evidence on long COVID symptom clustering patterns among patients with COVID-19 is limited. We summarized long COVID symptoms in clusters defined by number of symptoms co-occurring together, and we assessed Health-Related Quality of Life (HQRoL), Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI) outcomes across these clusters over time. We assessed associations between the clusters and BNT162b2 vaccination status. Methods: A prospective longitudinal patient-reported outcomes (PRO) study recruited laboratory-confirmed symptomatic COVID-19 patients seeking testing from a national retail pharmacy. Long COVID-19 symptoms were self-reported by participants at 4-week, 3-month and 6-month surveys. Patient classes identified via latent class analysis (LCA) with long COVID-19 symptoms were simplified into clusters based on number of symptoms. HRQoL and WPAI outcomes were collected using EQ-ED-5L and WPAI: GH questionnaires. Mixed models for repeated measures analyses were conducted to examine associations between exposure groups and outcomes. Results: The study included 328 participants that were segmented into three groups of long COVID-19 symptoms based on LCA and then simplified by the number of symptoms (Cluster 1 low, <2; Cluster 2 moderate, 2–6; and Cluster 3 high, >6 symptoms). The number of long COVID-19 symptoms was negatively associated with HRQoL and WPAI, whereby participants with high symptom burden (>6 symptoms) had the lowest HRQoL and WPAI scores assessed by absenteeism, presenteeism, work productivity loss, activity impairment, and hours worked metrics. Compared with those unvaccinated and not up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccination, subjects boosted with BNT162b2 consistently reported less symptom burden during the follow-up, regardless of their symptom-based cluster. Conclusion: Three distinct patient clusters based on frequency of long COVID symptoms experienced different HRQoL and WPAI outcomes over 6 months. The cluster with more concomitant symptoms experienced greater burden than the others. Participants up-to-date with BNT162b2 reported lower symptom burden across all clusters and timeframes. Clinical trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT05160636. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While preventing renal damage and symptomatic urinary tract infection are of paramount importance to persons with a spinal cord lesion (SCL), patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are receiving much more attention than ever before. We performed a cross-sectional internet survey of 282 adult members of SCL patient advocacy groups and investigated, for the first time, the impact of different types of urinary catheter, including a Japanese reusable silicone catheter and a reusable intermittent balloon catheter, on PROs of persons with SCL. Intermittent self-catheterization (ISC) did not surpass continuous indwelling catheterization in terms of a disease-specific urinary quality of life. Urinary incontinence, regular ISC, and performing ISC away from home confronted these individuals. Work productivity and regular activities correlated fairly well with the disease-specific urinary quality of life. Bowel management problems affected all PROs evaluated. The absence of differences in PROs among the types of catheter used for ISC implies that Japanese reusable catheters have the potential to benefit selected persons with SCL. Further research is warranted to develop measures for maximizing work productivity by overcoming urinary as well as bowel problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Compare the accuracy and diagnostic concordance of three commercially available AI-based lateral cephalometric tracing software. Materials and methods: Sixty-three lateral cephalometric radiographs were analyzed using semi-automatic (Dolphin Imaging Systems LLC) and AI-based software programs (WebCeph™, Cephio, and Ceppro DDH Inc.). Intra- and inter-observer reliability were assessed for human expert measurements, and repeated-measures one-way ANOVA was used to compare the AI and human expert measurements. The diagnostic performance was evaluated using sensitivity and specificity tests. Results: Human expert reliability was excellent (ICC > 0.9) for most cephalometric parameters. Compared to human experts, significant differences were observed for all three AI-based cephalometric programs (WebCeph™ – 10 of 11, Cephio – 7 of 11, and Ceppro DDH Inc. – 7 of 11 cephalometric measurements). Variations exceeding two units were noted for most parameters, and differences in defining the sagittal and vertical skeletal patterns, dental, and soft tissue characteristics were observed. Conclusion: All three AI-based tracing programs showed inaccuracies compared to human expert measurements and lacked reliability in measuring key cephalometric parameters. Clinicians should exercise caution when relying solely on AI-based analyses for orthodontic treatment planning and assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving energy utilization efficiency is a crucial means to achieve energy conservation, emission reduction, and green development. At present, to establish a high-quality development framework and satisfy the growing need for a better life among all its people, China must steadfastly pursue the path of green development. Although China's substantial economic scale and achievements in ecological civilization construction provide favorable conditions for green transformation, there remains a significant gap compared to developed countries in the application of green and clean technologies. Confronted with technological bottlenecks, leveraging emerging technologies such as industrial robots from the new round of scientific and technological revolutions to improve the green total factor energy efficiency (GTFEE) is of critical importance to China's green development. This study explores the potential impact of industrial robots on enhancing China's GTFEE. It begins by reviewing the current research landscape in this field, highlighting its shortcomings, and theorizing potential impact pathways of industrial robots. Subsequently, the paper analyzes data from 2010 to 2019 on the usage of industrial robots and GTFEE across 276 cities at the prefectural level or above in China. Through empirical regression models that incorporate control variables and interaction terms, the study investigates the specific impacts of industrial robots on energy efficiency and their mechanisms of action. The results indicate that industrial robots significantly enhance the GTFEE of Chinese cities, especially in the Northeastern region. Industrial robots notably improve the GTFEE in resource-based cities, old industrial bases, and low-carbon pilot cities. Additionally, robots indirectly boost GTFEE by increasing labor productivity. Enhanced levels of green innovation and environmental regulations also positively moderate the effectiveness of industrial robots in improving energy efficiency. The findings of this research can assist local government agencies in coordinating and implementing policies that are conducive to green development, making better use of industrial robots to serve the people, and are of significant importance for promoting the transformation of China's economy and society towards high-quality development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Workplace procrastination is a prevalent phenomenon that significantly impacts employee productivity and organizational competitiveness. Drawing on cognitive–motivational–relational theory, this study adopts an emotional perspective to investigate how and when job characteristics (i.e. hindrance job demands, challenge job demands and job resources) impact employees' workplace procrastination in distinct ways. We suggest that both hindrance and challenge demands may evoke fear of tasks, eliciting an action tendency of escape and avoidance, thus indirectly leading to procrastination. Notably, challenge demands may exhibit a dual effect by simultaneously enhancing interest in tasks with an action tendency of exploration, thus negatively and indirectly influencing procrastination. Job resources may generate joy about tasks, fostering an action tendency of free activation, thereby indirectly reducing procrastination. We further investigate how psychological capital, which largely shapes employees' appraisal of job characteristics, may alter the above relationships. We conducted two studies to examine our hypotheses and delve into the potential reversed relationships between job characteristics and procrastination. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental factors amplified by climate change contribute significantly to the global burden of disease, disproportionately impacting vulnerable populations, such as individuals with rare diseases. Researchers require innovative, dynamic data linkage methods to enable the development of risk prediction models, particularly for diseases like vasculitis with unknown aetiology but potential environmental triggers. In response, we present the Semantic Environmental and Rare Disease Data Integration Framework (SERDIF). SERDIF was evaluated with researchers studying climate-related health hazards of vasculitis disease activity across European countries (NP1 = 10, NP2 = 17, NP3 = 23). Usability metrics consistently improved, indicating SERDIF's effectiveness in linking complex environmental and health datasets. Furthermore, SERDIF-enabled epidemiologists to study environmental factors in a pregnancy cohort in Lombardy, showcasing its versatility beyond rare diseases. This framework offers for the first time a user-friendly, FAIR-compliant design for environment-health data linkage with export capabilities enabling data analysis to mitigate health risks posed by climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lake Victoria, which is shared by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, faces escalating concerns over sustainable fisheries amidst expanding fishing efforts. This study aims to investigate how technical efficiency (TE) and labor productivity (LP) of the Nile perch fishing fleet vary across the three riparian countries. Using a nine-year dataset spanning from 2005 to 2021 and employing Stochastic Frontier Analysis, this study evaluates the TE of the fleet, where LP is determined as catch per crew hour fished in a day for three vessel types: motorized, paddled, and sailed. Motorized fleets had the highest mean technical efficiency (0.60–0.66), compared to paddled (0.29–0.49), and sailed vessel categories (0.24–0.46). Sailed vessels declined in all countries owing to their low TE. In Kenya, TE and LP increased for paddled vessels, especially in the period from 2015 to 2021, and a slight increase was also indicated for motorized vessels. Conversely, Uganda and Tanzania experienced gradual declines in TE and LP, particularly from 2015 to 2021, a period of rigorous law enforcement that led to declines in the number of paddled vessels by 50% and 7%, respectively, and a contrasting increase in motorized vessels. By 2021, the number of Ugandan motorized vessels had increased greatly but TE had declined compared to Kenya and Tanzania, a sign of overcapacity. The findings underscore the need for region-specific policies that address economic differences, policy implementation impacts, and resource health to promote sustainable transboundary fisheries management on Lake Victoria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate potential savings obtained fromrestoring productivity in employees with chronic MSK pain through a digital care program (DCP). Methods: Secondary analysis of a prospective longitudinal study assessing cumulative savings overall or across several industry sectors by analyzing changes inWork Productivity and Activities Impairment (WPAI questionnaire). Results: Employees from 50 U.S. states started the program (n = 5032). Significant improvements in productivity impairment were observed across all industries, yielding median cumulative savings from $151 (95% confidence interval [CI], 128-174) to $294 (95% CI, 286-303) per participant at treatment end. Twelvemonth projections estimatedmedian savings of $2916 (95%CI, 2861-2972). Additionally, significant improvements in non-work-related daily activities were observed. Conclusions: This study underlines the burden of MSK-related productivity loss on employers' financial balance, illustrating the importance of a DCP to assist patients to recover quality of life and succeed professionally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Examine the impact of a participatory wellness continuing medical education (CME) program on physician burnout, wellness, and well-being. Methods: Physicians attending a 3-day wellness CME program. Self-reported questionnaires at baseline with paired analyses at 26-week follow-up. Results: Compared to baseline, at 26 weeks there were decreases in burnout (P < 0.001, ES -0.68), redmeat consumption (P = 0.02, ES -0.29), and current stress levels (P < 0.001, ES -0.50). There were increases in fruit/vegetable consumption (P < 0.001, ES 0.55), energy levels at work (P < 0.001, ES 0.60) and at home (P < 0.001, ES 0.66), quality of life (P < 0.001, ES 0.53), and confidence (P < 0.001, ES 0.89) and frequency (P = 0.01, ES 0.32) of counseling patients on wellness. Conclusion: Attendance at this participatory wellness CME program was associated with improved physician burnout, health behaviors in diet, stress, energy, quality of life, and wellness counseling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We estimated, for women and men (1) the associations between psychological distress and the prevalences of presenteeism and absenteeism, (2) average hours lost annually per person, and (3) costs from the employers' economic perspective. Methods: Participants were 1292 Canadian white-collar workers. Psychological distress, presenteeism, and absenteeism were assessed with validated questionnaires. The average annual hours of productivity loss and related costs were estimated using generalized linear models with a negative binomial distribution and a log link. Results: High psychological distress in women and men was associated with presenteeism costs ($6944 and $8432) and absenteeism costs ($2337 and $2796 per person). The association between psychological distress and annual hours lost to presenteeism was twice stronger for men than women. Conclusions: Productivity losses associated with psychological distress are high in women and men older workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aims of the study are to evaluate how upper limb impairment ratings are affected by updates to the AMAGuides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment (AMA Guides) Sixth Edition 2024 compared with the AMA Guides Sixth Edition 2008 and to investigate potential correlations with judicial, legislative, and economic factors. Methods: Two expert evaluators reviewed 31 upper limb clinical vignettes from the 2008 and 2024 versions. The impairment ratings for each version were compared. Results: After following the impairment ratings steps in each version, the results for 2024 showed no significant differences when compared with the impairment ratings generated using 2008 methods (Cohen's kappa = 1.00). Conclusions: The updated AMA Guides Sixth Edition 2024 with improved, transparent processes and enhanced diagnosis-based impairment tables provides efficiency while retaining the accuracy, validity, and reliability of past versions of the AMA Guides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder affecting the skinfold regions. There is growing appreciation of the need for socioeconomic factors to be included in multidisciplinary assessments of HS. However, knowledge regarding HS and workplace function is limited. Objectives To assess the relationship between HS and workplace function. Methods CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and PubMed were systematically searched to collect data from studies in which validated surveys of workplace function were administered to patients with HS. Results Of 1932 publications, 12 studies were included in this review and 7 reported sufficient data for meta-analysis. The studies included in this review encompassed 5187 patients with HS and no controls. All studies used the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment questionnaire, reporting percentage scores for absenteeism, presenteeism, total work productivity impairment (TWPI) and total activity impairment (TAI). The pooled mean scores for HS were calculated as 10.17% [95% confidence interval (CI) 8.68–11.66] for absenteeism, 31.13% (95% CI 25.02–37.23) for presenteeism, 34.25% (95% CI 29.37–39.14) for TWPI and 42.23% (95% CI 38.56–45.89) for TAI. Significant heterogeneity was identified; most studies were of 'poor' to 'fair' quality. Conclusions Current evidence suggests considerable impairment of workplace functioning in patients with HS. Our findings point to a significant unmet treatment need with respect to improving working capability in HS. The existing literature is inadequate to reliably assess the mechanisms underlying this effect or to comparatively assess the capabilities of HS therapies to improve workplace function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectification, being treated as a tool to achieve someone's instrumental goals, is a common phenomenon. A workplace supervisor may view employees solely in terms of their output; likewise, friends may be seen only for their potential for personal and social advancement. We conducted five studies (N = 1209) to test whether objectification increases conspiracy beliefs through thwarted trust and whether postobjectification increases in conspiracy beliefs carry behavioural implications. While conspiracy beliefs may have evolved as a strategy for survival, they may be considered maladaptive in the modern world. Therefore, understanding the antecedents, underlying mechanisms, and implications of conspiracy beliefs is essential. We measured (Study 1) and manipulated objectification (Studies 2–5), consistently finding that objectification decreased trust, thereby increasing conspiracy beliefs (Studies 1–5). This effect remained after considering negative emotions (Study 2). Increased conspiracy beliefs following objectification positively predicted unethical tendencies, and the effect of objectification on unethical tendencies was serially mediated by trust and conspiracy beliefs (Study 4). Restoring objectified people's trust weakened their conspiracy beliefs and unethical tendencies (Study 5). We discussed the implications of our findings, proposing directions for researchers, practitioners, managers, and policymakers for theoretical advancement, healthier coping, and promotion of well‐being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) represent a significant health challenge for workers in construction environments, often arising from prolonged exposure to ergonomic risks associated with manual labor, awkward postures, and repetitive motions. These conditions not only lead to diminished worker productivity but also incur substantial economic costs for employers and healthcare systems alike. Thus, there is an urgent need for effective tools to assess and mitigate these ergonomic risks. This study proposes a novel monocular 3D multi-person pose estimation method designed to enhance ergonomic risk assessments in construction environments. Leveraging advanced computer vision and deep learning techniques, this approach accurately captures and analyzes the spatial dynamics of workers' postures, with a focus on detecting extreme knee flexion, a critical indicator of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). A pilot study conducted on an actual construction site demonstrated the method's feasibility and effectiveness, achieving an accurate detection rate for extreme flexion incidents that closely aligned with supervisory observations and worker self-reports. The proposed monocular approach enables universal applicability and enhances ergonomic analysis through 3D pose estimation and group pose recognition for timely interventions. Future efforts will focus on improving robustness and integration with health monitoring to reduce WMSDs and promote worker health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beekeeping has faced increasing difficulties during the past decades, among which is the decline in floral resources. Agriculture provides essential floral resources for beekeeping, but some farming practices have also been shown to be responsible for their decline. To provide floral resources for beekeeping, what type of agricultural transformation should be promoted, and how? To answer these questions, we still lack knowledge about the floral resources that are used by beekeeping and about the technical-economic obstacles that farmers face in implementing more favorable farming practices, particularly in agropastoral settings. To help fill these gaps, we develop a novel approach that frames both agropastoral farming and beekeeping as farming systems, by characterizing the beekeeping systems of a given place, the floral resources they use, and the impacts these farming systems have on floral resources. This approach is applied to the agropastoral landscapes of Mount Lozère, southern France, using a methodology based on semi-structured interviews with farmers and beekeepers addressing the agronomical functioning of their farms. We demonstrate that the floral resources used by beekeepers on Mount Lozère are threatened by the current dominant agricultural development paths, which seek to maximize the material productivity of labor. Such paths lead to the intensification of agricultural practices in harvested areas and the extensification of rangelands. These pathways are reinforced by the low remuneration of agropastoral labor and by the current rules of the European Union Common Agricultural Policy. "Frugal" farming, a farming system based on reduced inputs and investments, and labor-intensive practices, namely, a labor-intensive use of pasture, seems an effective way to produce floral resources. Both, agropastoral farmers and beekeepers, would benefit from an increase in the number of agricultural workers in agropastoral landscapes. This calls for public policies that promote a better remuneration of agropastoral labor, either directly or by driving market mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sleep is a vital but overlooked and undervalued part of our overall health and well-being. Striving to optimize productivity and meet numerous daily demands often means that sleep is not prioritized. As sleep stewardship's importance gains wider recognition, clinical and ethical management of sleep resources and practices will likely be key features of health professionalism. This article considers how sleep stewardship should be advanced as a clinical, ethical, and cultural priority. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare sensory processing skills and occupational performance between participants with multiple sclerosis and healthy controls. Eighty participants were enrolled in this study, 40 with multiple sclerosis and 40 with healthy controls. Participants were between 18 and 65 years of age and asked to complete the Adult Sensory Profile, and Canadian Occupational Performance Measure. The findings of the study revealed that participants with multiple sclerosis had a lower ability to register sensory input, a higher sensory sensitivity, and avoidance, as well as lower levels of performance and satisfaction in their daily occupations, compared to the healthy controls (p < 0.05). People with multiple sclerosis often experience difficulties with sensory processing and occupational performance in daily life. More research and practice are needed on the role of sensory processing and occupational performance in daily life in people with multiple sclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prior studies have established an association between a history of abuse and more severe migraine presentation. Objectives: This cross‐sectional, observational study of a clinic‐based migraine population used validated measures to elucidate migraine‐specific and migraine‐related burdens among patients with a history of abuse. Methods: Patients with migraine (n = 866) from the American Registry for Migraine Research self‐reported if they had a history of emotional, physical, and/or sexual abuse and completed questionnaires assessing migraine‐related burden: Migraine Disability Assessment, Subjective Cognitive Impairment Scale for Migraine Attacks, Work Productivity and Activity Impairment, Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Pain Interference, Patient Health Questionnaire‐2, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder‐7. Migraine‐related burden in patients with versus without a history of abuse was compared. Subsequently, a mediation analysis evaluated the impact of depression and anxiety symptoms in the relationship between abuse history and migraine burden. Results: A history of abuse was reported by 36.5% (n = 316/866) of participants. After controlling for patient age, sex, years lived with headache, and headache frequency, a history of abuse was significantly associated with more severe migraine‐related disability. The combined burden of depression and anxiety symptoms mediated the relationship. Conclusion: A history of abuse is associated with greater migraine‐related disability. Future studies should determine if identification and management of the psychological and physical sequelae of abuse reduce migraine burden. Plain Language Summary: In this study, we found that patients with migraine who participated in the American Registry for Migraine Research and self‐reported a history of emotional, physical, or sexual abuse had worse migraine‐related burden than patients with migraine without a history of abuse. For example, patients who are survivors of abuse described a greater impact of migraine on their work, day‐to‐day living, and cognition. This increased migraine burden may be because of depression and anxiety, and we wonder if treating the underlying causes of these mental health difficulties might reduce their migraine burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Empirical researchers often consider a single determinant of labor productivity: speed. This paper asks whether they are neglecting spillovers on output quality. Using high‐frequency data on the speed and quality of strawberry harvesters' work, we offer novel evidence that two distinct workplace policies associated with increases in worker speed lead to similar decreases in the quality of their work. We find that both peer speed and wage changes boost worker speed and lower output quality; 10 percent increases in speed are associated with reductions in quality on the order of 1.5–1.7 percent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rising surge of work-related stress is particularly severe among small-to-medium-sized enterprise (SME) owner-managers, and has been linked to an array of deleterious consequences, such as burnout, venture failure, and suicide. Sadly, the majority of available stress management interventions appear to be ill-suited to owner-managers. Prior work, however, suggests that mobile phone-based messaging conversational agents (CAs) may hold promise for delivering mental health interventions to underserved groups such as the self-employed. Furthermore, recent research with SMEs finds that altering one's stress mindset – beliefs about the extent to which stress might be enhancing or debilitating can change one's responses to stress. Against this backdrop, the present study assessed the effectiveness and acceptability of a first-of-its-kind mobile messaging-based conversational agent-led stress mindset intervention (mCASMI) for Aotearoa New Zealand SME owner-managers. The mCASMI was delivered over 4-days via WhatsApp Messenger. The results confirmed that the mCASMI was successful in altering participants' mindsets about stress, in conjunction with self-reported improvements in productivity and work performance. The owner-managers who received the intervention were engaged, adherent, and reported a high degree of rapport with the CA. Though preliminary, these findings extend the state-of-the-art and suggest progressing with a larger-scale feasibility study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing a doctoral cohort has its challenges. Likewise, doctoral programs are responsible for adapting programming to serve students experiencing challenges. To address these challenges within a doctoral cohort, we applied relational-cultural theory (RCT) as a framework that can be used to support cohort experience development. With its emphasis on growth-fostering relationships, Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT) supports fostering genuine social connection, mutuality, and empathy in relationships, which could alleviate isolation and suffering, which are barriers to academic success and emotional development. We use case vignettes to highlight barriers associated with cohort development and cohesion and discuss implications and future directions for counselors, counselor educators, and supervisors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Centralized scheduling of nursing professionals is regarded as an effective strategy for optimizing workforce allocation and mitigating critical staffing shortages. The aim of this review is to (1) determine the effect of centralized scheduling on unit productivity (ie, overtime, contract labor, and floating), time savings for managers, and staff perceptions and retention and (2) discuss current approaches in the implementation of centralized scheduling in inpatient hospital settings. Methods: This rapid review of the evidence follows methodological guidance from the Cochrane Rapid Reviews Methods Group. Four electronic bibliographic databases were searched for research published from 2013 to 2023. A total of 446 articles were identified and screened, with a total of 12 articles included. Studies and reports were included if they addressed the operational question and were conducted in an inpatient hospital within the United States. Results: Case study reports describe improved labor productivity (ie. less overtime and less contracted labor), more consistently balanced staffing of frontline nursing professionals, less staff reassignment (ie, floating), and increased satisfaction and time savings for managers after transitioning to a centralized scheduling model. These findings were consistent with a computational, experimental study that found centralized scheduling resulted in less labor costs and fewer undesirable shifts from the frontline nurse's point of view compared to decentralized schedul\ng. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investments form the basis for high-quality economic growth by ensuring renewal of production capacities and improvement of technologies and processes, thereby increasing labor productivity. Investment research is key to understanding its impact on the country's economic advancement and more effective government policymaking to stimulate investment activity. The purpose of this paper is to study the relationship between fixed capital and R&D investments and labor productivity growth, as well as to determine the optimal level of these investments in determining the greatest effect on labor productivity growth. We use a regression model and the least squares method to empirically analyze data for seven countries for the period between 1997 and 2022. We calculate estimated values using SPSS and Python. The results show a certain impact of fixed assets and R&D investments on labor productivity growth. However, the payoff varies across the countries under study. Furthermore, despite its relatively small volumes, investment in R&D brings a greater effect on productivity growth than investment in fixed capital. With other factors remaining constant, the calculated optimums for investments in fixed assets and R&D show maximum points of growth in labor productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background/Objectives: Emotional intelligence may help nurses to cope with demanding work environments where the need to improve the quality and safety of the care provided, as well as the care of the chronically ill, prevails. Although it is well known that emotional intelligence is positively related to work performance, the literature on nurses is limited. The aim of our study was to examine the impact of emotional intelligence on work performance in a sample of nurses in Greece. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study with 318 nurses. We collected data from a convenience sample of nurses during January 2024. Since we conducted an online survey through social media, our sample could not be representative of all nurses in Greece. For instance, older nurses may be underrepresented in our study due to limited access on social media. We measured emotional intelligence with the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire-Short Form (TEIQue-SF) and work performance with the Individual Work Performance Questionnaire (IWPQ). We created multivariable linear regression models adjusted for sex, age, educational level, and work experience. We followed the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines. Results: We found that the four streams of emotional intelligence (i.e., well-being, self-control, emotionality, sociability) increased nurses' work performance. In particular, we found a positive relationship between well-being and task performance (adjusted beta = 0.210, 95% CI = 0.140 to 0.281, p-value < 0.001) and contextual performance (adjusted beta = 0.135, 95% CI = 0.050 to 0.221, p-value = 0.002). Similarly, there was a positive relationship between self-control and task performance (adjusted beta = 0.136, 95% CI = 0.030 to 0.241, p-value = 0.012). Additionally, sociability increased task performance (adjusted beta = 0.223, 95% CI = 0.151 to 0.295, p-value < 0.001) and contextual performance (adjusted beta = 0.198, 95% CI = 0.111 to 0.286, p-value < 0.001). Moreover, emotionality (adjusted beta = −0.198, 95% CI = −0.319 to −0.076, p-value = 0.002) and sociability (adjusted beta = −0.133, 95% CI = −0.221 to −0.044, p-value = 0.003) reduced counterproductive work behavior. Conclusions: Our multivariable models identified a positive impact of emotional intelligence on nurses' work performance. Nurse managers and healthcare organizations should adopt appropriate interventions to improve nurses' emotional intelligence. Enhancing emotional intelligence among nurses can improve work performance and, thus, healthcare outcomes. Moreover, higher levels of emotional intelligence may empower nurses' compassion and resilience, fostering a supportive work environment. In this context, the well-being of both nurses and patients may improve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]