Search Results (653)

This study examines how organizational models are evolving beyond post-Fordism in the context of digitalization, platformization, and new forms of labor governance. Using a bibliometric analysis of 1573 Web of Science publications, the article maps the intellectual genealogy, disciplinary foundations, and global collaborative patterns of research on the platform economy. The field has consolidated around three core concepts—platform economy, gig economy, and sharing economy—anchored in clusters focused on business models, labor precarity, and regulatory and governance debates. The analysis reveals a temporal shift from early narratives centered on sharing and collaborative consumption to contemporary concerns with algorithmic management, precarious work, and worker resistance. Parallel discussions of Industry 4.0 and 5.0 expose tensions between human-centered aspirations and the continued expansion of platform capitalism. The global landscape shows both vitality and asymmetry: China leads in empirical output, while the USA and England dominate theoretical agenda-setting and international collaboration. Overall, the findings demonstrate that platform research constitutes a mature, interdisciplinary field bridging labor sociology and management studies. The study calls for stronger integration of Global South perspectives and further examination of whether human-centered organizational visions can meaningfully counteract the structural inequalities embedded in platform-mediated work. Full article

Arboreal ants occupy a thermally dynamic environment, yet the mechanisms integrating nest architecture and worker behavior to maintain colony homeostasis remain understudied. We investigated the interplay among circadian rhythm, nest homeostasis, and worker morphology in Azteca chartifex spiriti, a Neotropical arboreal species that builds large polydomous nests suspended in trees. In ten colonies, we measured internal moisture and temperature gradients in the main nest, which houses most individuals, including the reproductive female, immatures, and numerous workers. In six colonies, we assessed the polymorphism of foraging workers over a 24 h cycle in relation to external temperature variation. The results show integrated thermoregulatory mechanisms that combine passive strategies, derived from nest architecture and moisture gradients from the suspension base to the lower extremity, with active strategies linked to foraging patterns and worker polymorphism. Internal temperature (27.8 ± 2.41 °C) remained buffered relative to external fluctuations, and moisture was significantly higher at the nest’s lower extremity (p < 0.001). Worker size displayed a bimodal distribution during the day that shifted to a unimodal pattern at night, indicating behavioral adjustments to thermal and operational demands. These findings demonstrate that the interaction between physical structure and worker behavior maintains colony homeostasis, providing essential insights into how dominant canopy ants may cope with future climate change scenarios. Full article

Background/Objectives: The literature indicates that decreased vitamin D levels are frequently observed in individuals with severe psychiatric disorders. However, the scarcity of studies investigating this association in non-psychiatric populations, such as working women, limits the generalizability of these findings. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between common mental disorders (CMDs) and vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency among female workers in southern Brazil. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 304 female workers from an industrial group in southern Brazil. Vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency was defined as a serum 25(OH)D concentration of <30 ng/mL. CMDs were assessed using the Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20), with a cutoff score of ≥8. The association between CMDs and vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency was estimated using prevalence ratios (PRs) obtained through Poisson regression models adjusted for potential confounders. All analyses were stratified by age group (≤40 years and >40 years). Results: The ≤40-year group included 212 women (69.7%; mean age: 30.1 ± 6.3 years), and the >40-year group included 92 women (30.3%; mean age: 47.5 ± 5.6 years). The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency was 75.0% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 69.1–80.9) in women aged ≤40 years and 77.2% (95% CI: 68.4–85.9) in those aged >40 years. After adjustment for potential confounding variables, among women older than 40 years, those with CMDs had a 25% higher probability of presenting vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency compared to those without CMDs (PR = 1.25; 95% CI: 1.00–1.56; p = 0.044). Among women aged ≤40 years, no significant association was observed between CMDs and vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency (PR = 1.10; 95% CI: 0.94–1.30; p = 0.226). Conclusions: The findings of this study indicate a significant association between common mental disorders and vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency among female workers, particularly in those aged 40 years or older. Full article

This study investigates how skilled labor influences the development of the secondary sector in emerging economies, using China as a case study. We focus on the transitional process in which manufacturing growth shifts from labor-intensive expansion toward productivity-driven industrial upgrading. Using provincial-level data from 2000 to 2023, we evaluate the role of skilled labor across different stages of development by applying fixed-effects panel regressions, a difference-in-differences framework, and multiple robustness checks. Our findings reveal that skilled labor does not significantly contribute to secondary sector performance in the early phase, when growth relies primarily on low labor costs and rapid urbanization. However, once regions accumulate sufficient economic capacity and technological readiness, skilled labor becomes an important driver of value added and export performance. Stricter environmental policies further widen regional differences: developed regions benefit from green upgrading supported by skilled workers, while less developed regions face firm exits and weakening industrial output. These results highlight the importance of aligning human capital investments with industrial and environmental policies to promote more balanced and sustainable economic development in emerging markets. Full article

Temporary agency work (TAW) has expanded globally as organizations seek flexibility amid skill shortages and demand volatility. In 2015 the United Nations recognized ‘decent work’ as Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 8), emphasizing sustainable economic growth, fair employment opportunities accessible to all without discrimination, environmental responsibility, and social inclusiveness. This study examines why user organizations (clients) adopt TAW and how these drivers materialize in stakeholder practices that align—or fail to align—with SDG-8 dimensions of decent work. Within a qualitative-dominant, explanatory sequential mixed-methods case study, documentary and statistical analyses were combined with 19 semi-structured interviews across agencies, clients, agency workers, trade unions, and relevant authorities. Inductive thematic analysis identified seven demand-side driver categories and assessed their effects using the SDG-8 pillars as an analytical lens (employment creation, rights at work, social protection, social dialogue). Findings indicate that TAW is primarily deployed to buffer volatility and labour shortages, accelerate hiring, and shift HR administration and parts of risk to agencies, with limited integration of SDG-8–consistent practices. Three cross-cutting gaps emerged: (i) social dialogue is narrow and compliance-oriented, with little strategic focus on decent-work outcomes; (ii) agency-worker voice and representation are weak, and agencies are not consistently recognised as social partners; and (iii) social-sustainability efforts are sparse and ad hoc, with few structured measures for skill development, equal treatment, or clear conversion pathways, while environmentally friendly initiatives are almost completely absent. In Slovenia, TAW fills systemic labour gaps but remains weakly integrated with SDG-8 practices. The study links demand-side drivers to specific decent-work shortfalls and proposes a multi-level policy roadmap—regulatory, industry, TAW agency, and social-dialogue platforms—to advance progress toward social sustainability and environmental responsibility. Full article

Background: Leptin is a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating energy homeostasis and it is associated with adiposity. Women engaged in work shifts are often exposed to circadian disruption and metabolic changes that may contribute to increased adiposity and hormonal imbalance. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the association between general and abdominal obesity and serum leptin levels among female shift workers. Methods: This cross-sectional study included a sample of 302 female employees from a group of plastic manufacturing industries in southern Brazil. Serum leptin levels were measured, with values > 15.2 ng/mL classified as elevated. General obesity (body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m²) and abdominal obesity (waist circumference ≥ 88 cm) were assessed. Associations were examined using Poisson regression with robust variance. Results: The mean age of participants was 35.4 ± 10.1 years. The mean serum leptin concentration in the sample was 33.6 ng/mL (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 30.6–36.6), and the prevalence of altered serum leptin levels was 78.1% (95% CI: 73.5–82.8). After adjustment for potential confounders, women with obesity showed a 63% higher probability of having elevated leptin levels (Prevalence Ratio [PR] = 1.63; 95% CI: 1.32–2.02; p < 0.001) compared with those without obesity. Additionally, significant associations were observed with work shift and physical activity. However, abdominal obesity was not statistically significant after adjustment. Conclusions: Obesity was independently associated with elevated serum leptin levels among female shift workers, suggesting that excess adiposity remains a key determinant of leptin dysregulation in this population. Full article

Background: Prolonged standing is common in industrial environments and may induce functional adaptations in the foot and postural system. This study aimed to evaluate short-term changes in foot posture and plantar pressure distribution after a working day in assembly line workers. Methods: Forty participants (31 males, 9 females; mean age 44 ± 7 years; BMI 26.1 ± 3.6 kg/m²) performed standing tasks during an 8 h shift. Static baropodometric measurements and 3D foot scans were obtained before and after the workday to assess plantar pressure, contact area, and arch height. The Spanish versions of the Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) and the Foot Function Index (FFI) were used to evaluate discomfort and functional status. Paired t-tests were applied, and correlations were analyzed (p < 0.05). Results: Left-foot arch height decreased significantly after the workday (mean change = 0.6 mm; p = 0.027). Both mean and peak plantar pressures declined (p < 0.001), along with moderate reductions in contact area (p ≤ 0.05). The center of pressure shifted mediolaterally, and discomfort was most frequent in the lower back, knees, and feet. A positive correlation was found between arch height reduction and FFI score (r = 0.349; p = 0.028). Conclusions: Prolonged standing was associated with measurable adaptations in foot posture and plantar pressure, possibly indicating short-term fatigue or compensatory postural adjustments. These results emphasize the importance of assessing plantar load and foot morphology as indicators of potential functional responses to sustained standing and as possible targets for ergonomic and rehabilitation strategies. Full article

Characterized by excessively long working hours, high personnel turnover, and frequent off-site work, the construction industry renders construction workers highly vulnerable to Work–Family Conflict (WFC). This conflict not only exacerbates role tension but also depletes their self-control resources. However, existing studies focusing on WFC among construction workers remain scarce, with insufficient exploration into the underlying psychological mechanisms governing this phenomenon. Grounded in the Conservation of Resources (COR) theory, this study develops a theoretical model that identifies Self-Control Ability (SC) as the core mediator in the relationships between WFC and construction workers’ Job Satisfaction (JS) as well as Life Satisfaction (LS). By establishing a Structural Equation Model (SEM), we analyzed questionnaire data from 407 construction workers in Hunan Province, China. The results demonstrate that WFC exerts a direct negative effect on both JS and LS, while self-control ability plays a partial mediating role in these associations. These findings extend the application of Boundary Theory and Self-Control Theory to the context of specialized labor. Practically, they offer evidence-based insights for organizations to enhance worker well-being, including the design of psychological resource replenishment programs and the optimization of shift schedules, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of the construction industry. Full article

Assessing grip strength is fundamental to ergonomics, medicine, sports, and rehabilitation, as it reflects the functional capabilities of the upper limb. The main goal of this paper is to design and create a device that measures hand force to help keep workers’ physical workload safe and sustainable in factories. The paper looks at the long-term health and safety of employees, explaining what sensors and methods can be used to measure hand force and pressure. It describes a new device for measuring hand grip, which was tested and adjusted in real factory conditions. This device could be used to measure force when using tools and to check for risks of heavy physical strain at work. The system helps find possible injury risks in any type of workplace, especially where people need to grip with their hands many times. It checks if workers use too much force, especially in jobs with repeated tasks where the same hand movement happens again and again. The text suggests that it is important to track hand forces during any job that repeats more than 40 times in a shift, no matter how long the shift is. The system is made up of a smart glove and software for analysis. Its purpose is to estimate how much force is needed to complete a task safely, not the maximum force a person can make. The goal is to measure the required force for the job so that workers’ workload remains safe and healthy over the long term. Full article

Racialised minority populations were disproportionately affected by COVID-19 and saw the highest rate of COVID-19 infections and mortality. Low socioeconomic status, working as frontline workers, temporary employment, precarious immigration status and pre-existing medical conditions were factors that contributed to disadvantaged experiences. This systematic review looked at the impact of COVID-19 on racialised minority populations globally, recognising their experiences, perspectives and the effects on their physical and mental health. Eight electronic databases were searched (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Social Policy and Practice (SPP), Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts (ASSIA), MedRxiv and Research Square) for English language qualitative studies. Reference lists of relevant literature reviews and reference lists of articles were hand-searched for additional potentially relevant articles. Duplicates were removed, and articles were screened for titles and abstracts, followed by full-text screening. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) was used to assess the quality of the included studies (n = 70). Data were synthesised using thematic synthesis. Seven major and three minor themes were identified. The major themes related to (i) children and young people’s experiences of COVID-19; (ii) exacerbated pre-existing disparities relating to income, employment and housing security, health insurance and immigration status; (iii) lack of knowledge and information about COVID-19 and COVID-19 misinformation; (iv) racial history of medicine and treatment of racialised populations; (v) contemporary experiences of racism; (vi) impact on physical and mental health and wellbeing; (vii) concerns about safety at work. Minor themes related to (a) experiences of intercommunity mutual aid; (b) adherence to preventative guidance/COVID-19 restrictions; (c) the role of faith. Research needs to focus on developing and testing interventions that support transformation of social, cultural and economic systems towards equity of access to healthcare and healthcare knowledge. Research should be cognisant of interventions that have worked in shifting the equity dial in the past, implement these and use them to inform new approaches. Policy and practice should be mechanisms for enabling the implementation of interventions. Full article

During the Great Recession, labor markets often exhibit a slow unemployment recovery and persistent outward shifts in the Beveridge curve, which suggests a decline in the efficiency of the job-matching process. While it is often explained by worker search intensity, we argue that the direction of search behavior also matters by proposing a stylized theoretical model based on the Free Energy Principle. Through modeling agents who actively divide their effort between applying for jobs and learning about the market’s new state, our framework shows that agents endogenously shift effort from applications to learning when their uncertainty is high. Building on this micro-foundation, we design a macroeconomic model where matching efficiency is no longer an external parameter but is instead governed by two cognitive factors: the share of unemployed workers with misaligned beliefs and the average learning effort of the informed. Simulation results show that a structural shock will divert effort to learning and depress matching by creating widespread uncertainty, and the subsequent slow recovery is governed by the realignment of collective beliefs. Our work provides a cognitive explanation for this observed persistence of unemployment and the shift of the Beveridge curve. Full article

Pediatric sepsis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with outcomes dependent on timely recognition and rigorous management. As clinical management of pediatric sepsis depends on early recognition and initial therapeutic steps, targeted educational materials for healthcare workers in these early phases of care are warranted. Findings of this review highlight and compare the role of traditional educational methods (e.g., lectures) to alternative teaching methods (e.g., use of virtual reality) in educating healthcare workers about pediatric sepsis. Overall, there is a gradual shift from traditional, teacher-centered, transmissive teaching methods to more collaborative, reflective, and learner-centered approaches. These pedagogical approaches, despite some potential limitations, offer opportunities to use technological enhancements and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance teaching and learning across various methods. Full article

Background/Objectives: Shift work and chronotype influence timing and type of food consumed, yet their combined influence is unclear. This study determined differences between temporal patterns of eating (times of first (FEO), last (LEO), and largest eating occasions (LarEO), duration of eating window (DEW), eating frequency) and nutrient intake of night shift workers on and off shift and the additional influence of chronotype. Methods: Participants (46.6 ± 10.2 years, BMI: 33.9 ± 5.6 kg/m², male/female: 57/72) completed work/sleep/food diaries, and the Composite Scale of Morningness. Dietary profiles were characterized by day type as follows: morning shift (MS), 1st night shift (1stNS), subsequent night shifts (SNS), 1st day off after night shifts (1stDONS), or other days off (DO). Results: Across day types, there were significant differences in FEO (p < 0.001), LEO (p < 0.001), LarEO (p = 0.025), DEW (p < 0.001), eating frequency (p = 0.003), total energy (p = 0.022), and fibre intake (p < 0.001). Compared to MS, all night shifts had later FEO, LEO, and LarEO; 1stNS had longer DEW and higher fibre but no differences in frequency, energy, and macronutrient intake. Greater morningness was associated with earlier FEO, LEO, LarEO, and lower %energy from fat and saturated fat. Effect of chronotype on temporal eating patterns was not different across day types; there was a significant, positive relationship between morningness and %energy from carbohydrate (%Energy_CHO) on MS (p = 0.004) and 1stDONS (p = 0.040). Conclusions: Dietary habits of night shift workers vary by shift schedule and degree of morningness. Further studies will confirm if shift schedule is more influential than chronotype on shift workers’ dietary habits. Full article

This entry examines how wage-setting institutions (WSIs) shape wages across advanced economies. It focuses on four core mechanisms—minimum wages, collective bargaining, wage coordination, and wage centralization—drawing on theoretical insights, empirical evidence, and cross-country comparisons. The analysis shows that minimum wages safeguard low-paid workers but have heterogeneous employment effects depending on their level and enforcement. Collective bargaining raises average wages and compresses wage inequality, though it can reduce flexibility and create insider–outsider dynamics. Wage coordination stabilizes wage growth, prevents inflationary spirals, and fosters equity, while wage centralization promotes solidarity wages and macroeconomic discipline but may limit adaptability. Using The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and Institutional Characteristics of Trade Unions, Wage Setting, State Intervention and Social Pacts (ICTWSS) data, the study highlights institutional diversity, ranging from coordinated Nordic models to fragmented liberal systems, and identifies trends toward “organized decentralization”. Policy implications suggest that WSIs should be viewed not as rigidities but as adaptable frameworks that can balance efficiency, equity, and stability when carefully designed. The conclusion emphasizes that the future of wage-setting lies in leveraging institutional complementarities to respond to globalization, technological change, and shifting labor market conditions. Full article

Shift workers face a heightened risk of insomnia. Recent research has yielded promising insights, but further progress is necessary to better treat insomnia in this group. The present pilot study evaluates how different characteristics impact sleep in shift workers to develop an innovative therapeutic approach. An online survey was administered to an ad hoc sample of N = 225 (112 shift workers), and correlations were calculated between sleep variables and specific characteristics (e.g., psychological impairment, personality traits, sleep-related behavior, attitudes towards sleep and shift work). Group differences between good/poor sleepers and day/shift work were determined using Mann–Whitney U-tests and Kruskal–Wallis H-tests. Regression was used to identify appropriate predictors. All factors (except perfectionism, chronotype, and importance of sleep) yielded significant results in both correlations and group differences (good/poor sleepers). The two groups of day/shift workers showed only minor differences. Dysfunctional beliefs about sleep, pre-sleep arousal, and depression were identified as predictors of poorer sleep. We conclude that interventions on psychological constraints (anxiety and depression), personality traits (anxiety, concern, emotional instability, and tension), social integration, sleep-related factors (dysfunctional beliefs, especially cognitive pre-sleep-arousal, sleep hygiene) and the attitude toward shiftwork, can replace those on regularity and will build an innovative therapy for shift workers on this basis. Once the newly developed treatment manual is finalized, its efficacy will be assessed through a randomized controlled trial. Full article