NI GPs warning for winter illness peak as NHS braces for 'quad-demic'Nobody would seriously suggest that an office is as potentially dangerous as, say, a coal mine or a building site. But intensive use of office AV technology can affect users in multiple ways, from posture and eyesight to stress and sanity. “Musculoskeletal problems have become more common among office workers,” says James Campanini, head of B2B, Europe at Logitech. “Improper working setups, especially at home, can lead to poor posture, where users find themselves looking down at laptops or monitors and straining the neck and spine, or using ill-fitting peripherals, exacerbating physical discomfort.” Post-Covid changes in working practices have compounded the problem. “The rise of remote work saw much of the progress that had been made around workplace ergonomics buried under the rubble of the pandemic, as employees struggled to recreate an office-like environment at home, often on their bed or living room sofa,” says Adil Sheikh, UK managing director of modular meeting booth manufacturer MuteBox. “The downsizing of offices since 2020 and the rise of hot-desking have made it more difficult for employees to ensure their desk set-up meets their individual needs and measurements. And hybrid working now means we primarily connect with co-workers via virtual meetings, making proper seating and AV set-up doubly important – yet many are taking video calls hunched over their phones.” According to Jayne Cox, co-founder of Fusion Spaces, remote meeting technology can lead to all kinds of wellbeing issues, from exhaustion and the feeling of being always ‘on call’ to unhealthy multi-tasking and hang-ups over body image. It can even cause anxiety by activating threat responses that are deeply ingrained in the human psyche. Vision VFM-DSDB monitor desk stand 100×100 dual meets the growing need for adjustable brackets and mounting solutions that allow users to find optimal screen positions. Photo: Sammy Dierickx “For example,” says Cox, “a disproportionately large face (without the rest of the body for reference) and staring eyes through the screen can cause a natural ‘fight or flight’ response. A large screen allows a lot of data to be shared clearly, but perhaps we need to consider how the face appears to the viewer and not expect one screen size to suit all needs.” The advent of 21:9 displays and ultra wide screen set-ups means giving careful consideration to sightlines and viewing distances, to prevent eye strain and promote good posture, believes Stuart Lockhart, director of Vision. “This highlights the growing need for adjustable brackets and mounting solutions that allow users to find optimal screen positions. They often think about this in their personal space, but less in a meeting room.” “There’s an interesting phenomenon known as ‘screen apnoea’,” says Cox. “Dr Stephen Porges suggests that a narrowing of our visual field, and irregular, shallow breathing and breath holding (often associated with the stress response) occur when looking at a screen. This could be improved by using a larger screen, and taking breaks for simple breathing exercises and movement, among other things.” Composer, Carter Burwell, had WSDG design a new studio while the house plans were still on the drawing board. Screen-based overwork The creative industries that form the heartland of pro AV can be particularly prone to screen-based overwork. “In fields like production, engineering and the arts, professionals may immerse themselves in enjoyable and creative tasks,” says Silvia Molho, partner and art director at WSDG. “Achieving this level of creativity requires significant physical effort, and it’s not uncommon for fatigue or physical strain to go unnoticed for hours or days.” “Noise can be a distraction, leading to poor concentration, headaches, fatigue and stress, and studies show that workers are almost sixty five per cent less productive in noisy work environments,” says Cox. “Not only does sound cause distraction and loss of concentration, but it can also interfere with brain activity, learning and memory. And in those who are sensitive to sound, it can also severely and negatively impact mood and mental state, causing a wide range of emotional responses including irritation and anger. “We often suggest that clients ‘mindfully’ listen to their space, and this might be the first time they actually become aware of poor sound.” Noise does not have to be ear-splitting to be troublesome. Colleagues talking, phones ringing, even the hums, clicks and bleeps of AV equipment, can all be problematic, especially for people who are neurodiverse – and that means one in seven of us. “Shrinking office spaces due to hybrid work, forcing employees to stay cooped up in smaller spaces on their in-office days, expose everyone to higher levels of noise pollution,” says Sheikh. “Virtual meetings also pose a challenge, when nearby sound is picked up by microphones, causing people to struggle with other participants’ background noise.” WSDG: Oven Studios is the personal studio of Alicia Keys. Built in the suburbs of New York. It's the law Why should you care about all this? Well, firstly because the law says so, imposing an obligation to perform a display screen equipment (DSE) assessment on all workers’ workspaces, including home offices. But, as Campanini points out, ergonomic challenges do not only affect health; they can also have significant implications for work performance. “Physical pain can lead to reduced productivity and concentration, and more errors, particularly in high-pressure environments. The stress of this can ultimately contribute to burnout and staff churn. So companies are realising that, by designing and redesigning work practices with a focus on health, they can foster a more engaged, innovative and productive workforce, while improving employee retention and satisfaction.” Creating an ergonomic workplace involves a mixture of design, product selection and working practices. “When selecting displays, prioritise adjustable mounts that allow for easy adjustment of height, tilt and orientation,” says Lockhart. “Ensure that screens are positioned at eye level to prevent neck strain, and that projectors have adjustable mounts to avoid glare and misalignment.” Logitech: Lift ergonomic vertical mouse, designed to reduce wrist strain and promote a more natural hand posture Glaringly obvious solutions Screen glare can be minimised by angling displays away from windows or other light sources, or via built-in or add-on anti-glare filters. More sophisticated displays may also include technology to eliminate flickering and reduce strain-inducing blue light. Poorly designed – or poorly- or over-used – peripherals can cause or exacerbate repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) and other musculoskeletal problems, so there is a focus on ergonomic design in devices such as mice and keyboards. “Vertical or trackball mice promote a natural handshake position, while ergonomic keyboards with a curved, split keyframe enhance wrist alignment, reducing the chance of workers developing chronic RSIs,” says Campanini. Much the same goes for furniture. “Use adjustable desks, stands and seating to allow for easy reconfiguration and encourage better posture,” says Lockhart. “This also allows for multiple users in each space, and for users to continuously evolve what feels comfortable to them.” “An ergonomic chair should offer comprehensive support and relaxation for the back,” says Molho. “Features like adjustable height, backrest inclination, knee support, headrest and armrests are important, with armrests aligning with the table surface to promote a more natural posture.” Adjustable-height desks that can be used while sitting or standing, or sit-stand risers placed on regular desks, can promote more natural behaviour. As Cox points out, human beings have evolved to keep moving, not to sit for hours, so the option to work standing up can be very beneficial, particularly in meetings. “Productive meetings while standing take around twenty minutes, and are more likely to lead to a creative solution or a ‘light bulb’ moment,” says Cox. “Basic ergonomic guidelines recommend taking a ten-minute break every fifty minutes or engaging in light exercise,” says Molho. “To support this, some companies provide relaxation or entertainment rooms, and spaces with walking machines, fitness balls or designated areas for short walks.” Architect Nadja Zürcher designed a series of all-glass conference and huddle rooms for a Zurich-based firm. WSDG did the acoustic consulting, treatments and AV integration for these spaces. Audio aggravation As we noted earlier, poor audio and acoustics can cause many issues. “Speakers, microphones and sound systems should be installed at appropriate heights and angles to maintain clear sound quality without needing excessive volume,” says Lockhart. “Adjustable brackets for speakers help to fine-tune positioning, improving auditory comfort and clarity – especially with ceiling speakers which are less directional.” “Managing exposure times to sound helps minimise fatigue and discomfort, ensuring that individuals can engage with audio content without negative effects,” adds Molho. The hard, reflective surfaces so popular with interior designers can make for an overly harsh acoustic environment. “Create acoustic comfort with innovative, spatial treatments that can incorporate biophilic design,” advises Cox. “Use walls, ceiling and dividers, plantings both natural and artificial, and include soft, absorbent furnishing materials and carpets.” Use of spatial or 3D audio could make remote participants in meetings sound more natural and intelligible, and help listeners to relax, she adds. Lighting also requires careful attention. “Architectural lighting should be installed above work surfaces, providing warmth and even illumination,” says Molho. “Additionally, accessory or accent lighting should accommodate dimming and colour variation, offering versatility during extended work sessions.” Flicker-free, of the right brightness and adjustable Illumination needs to be flicker-free, of the right brightness (neither glaring nor gloomy), and adjustable to match how the space is being used, and even the time of day (whiter in the morning, warmer-hued in the afternoon). This can be done via pre-programmed settings, but it is always advisable also to allow workers in a space to manually adjust the lighting to suit their own needs. In fact, “power to the user” is a good mantra for any organisation that wants a happy, healthy and productive workforce. “It’s important that users are consulted about new technology and their objectives understood,” says Cox. “Technology shouldn’t require laminated sheets for instruction, and should be reliable and appropriate to the tasks in hand, to reduce stress.” “Complex interfaces and cluttered setups can contribute to user stress and hinder productivity,” says Lockhart. “So position controls within easy reach and ensure they’re intuitive. Clear labelling and simple layouts minimise operational fatigue.” “Creating healthier work environments involves not only workspaces with ergonomic equipment, but also providing mental health resources, such as counselling and wellness programmes,” adds Campanini. And finally, dear reader, a word of caution. In a few pages we can’t possibly tell you everything you need to know about workplace ergonomics. So if, as we hope, we’ve piqued your interest, please take expert advice that relates to your own situation, and let this article be the start of your journey, not the end. CASE STUDY: THE MINISTRY Converted from a Victorian print works by London nightclub, Ministry of Sound (pictured above), co-working space ‘The Ministry’ takes an innovative approach to the use of sound. Sound baths are offered at lunchtime and after work, using the power of sound to relax mind and body. On the outdoor terrace, members can immerse themselves in gentle sounds inspired by nature, such as bird calls and buzzing bees. And MuteBox meeting booths are dotted around the building to provide soundproof spaces where workers can concentrate on tasks in silence, or host confidential meetings. CASE STUDY: THE PIT Vision worked with The PIT (pictured below), a co-working, gallery and event space in Bristol, to create a set of mobile displays designed with ergonomics in mind. The team wanted to be able to offer a ‘desk side’ experience where screens showing people on video conferencing calls could be positioned right next to the team in a meeting room as if they were part of the table. This reduces the need for participants to be positioned towards a screen, and improves comfort by not having to look further into the distance.
NoneOne-star Ginza Kitafuku in Tokyo serves the world's most expensive Michelin tasting menu at $2,130. While the visitors are served the best-tasting snow crab at the establishment, they must take off their shoes and sit on the floor. Diners must pay $2,130 per person for the restaurant's most expensive dish, made entirely of a snow crab so beloved by the Japanese royal family that it has its museum, reported the New York Post. Visitors may watch the chef at Ginza Kitafuku cook a live crab in front of them before it is served. If this sight makes you uncomfortable, you might consider reserving on the sixth floor in a separate room. For $258, the restaurant serves a red king crab feast for customers on a tighter budget. According to a list compiled by food publication Chef's Pencil, Ginza Kitafuku is the most expensive Michelin-starred restaurant in the world in 2024. The second most expensive restaurant on the list is Shanghai's three-star Ultraviolet by Paul Pairet. A meal at the establishment costs an astounding $1,230. The restaurant offers a "theatrical, multi-sensory dining experience featuring meticulously crafted dishes that blend French techniques with global influences," according to the outlet, which described it as "a captivating fusion of gastronomy and cutting-edge visual technology." Third place goes to New York, where Caviar Russe on Madison Avenue has the priciest Michelin-starred tasting meal in the country. Here, the guests can taste an 11-course meal focused on caviar for $950. Azabu Kadowaki in Tokyo and Masa in New York are two other eateries on the list. With a dinner that cost more than $950, Masa was the first restaurant in the USA to receive a Michelin star. Other notable locations are Guy Savoy in Paris, Quince in San Francisco, and Alchemist in Copenhagen. Track Latest News Live on NDTV.com and get news updates from India and around the world
The P.E.I. Green Party's energy critic says Maritime Electric's plan to expand its power generation on the Island through the use of fossil-fuel technology is shortsighted. Peter Bevan-Baker said he was "very disappointed and not entirely shocked" to learn that the energy utility is applying to spend $427 million on a combustion turbine, a battery for energy storage systems, and internal combustion engines. "Maritime Electric is not necessarily known for being a progressive company when it comes to looking to... the energy future," Bevan-Baker told host Mitch Cormier on Friday. "We see other jurisdictions around the world embracing new clean energy when it comes to generation and storage. And yet we are considering investing half a billion dollars in some diesel generators." Maritime Electric pulls around 75 per cent of its power from other provinces, primarily New Brunswick. Last year, P.E.I.'s grid recorded a new peak load of 359 megawatts. The utility said buying the equipment it's seeking approval for should be cheaper in the long run than continuing to buy power off-Island. What's the point in plugging my electric car into the socket if the energy that's coming to feed my battery is by burning diesel? We may as well just put a diesel engine in the car. The provincial Crown corporation has submitted an application to the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission to make the purchase. Bevan-Baker said he's in favour of P.E.I. producing more of its own energy rather than relying on its neighbours, but he said there's a cleaner way to do it in both the short and long term. Green Party energy critic Peter Bevan-Baker says he'll be requesting a meeting with Gilles Arsenault, the province's new environment minister, to discuss Maritime Electric's proposal. (CBC) "I have no issue with us trying to create more energy independence here on Prince Edward Island. But to do that in one fell swoop by spending half a billion dollars on technology which was being outlawed and abandoned 20, 30 years ago is not the way to go," he said. "What's the point in plugging my electric car into the socket if the energy that's coming to feed my battery is [generated] by burning diesel? We may as well just put a diesel engine in the car." The cost of the new equipment will be passed on to customers eventually, but the utility said it's too early to tell what that could mean for an average monthly bill. In with host Louise Martin, P.E.I. Premier Dennis King said the province will be an intervenor in the IRAC hearings on Maritime Electric's application, "to make sure ratepayers are represented at the hearings and in the discussion and to make sure that we're doing everything we possibly can do to keep rates as low as we can possibly keep them, as well as making sure we meet our targets for climate reduction." While the province hopes to eventually reach net zero when it comes to carbon output, the grid is being challenged by the number of people swapping from oil to electric heat pumps. Maritime Electric CEO Jason Roberts told CBC News this week that the effects could be dire if the upgrades don't happen, especially if there is another cold snap as there was in February 2023 and wind farms in the province are too cold to operate. That's where Bevan-Baker said the provincial government needs to step in and help Islanders and communities store more of the renewable energy they generate from solar and wind in battery reserves. Bevan-Baker said he'll be requesting a meeting with Gilles Arsenault, the province's new environment minister, to discuss Maritime Electric's proposal. "Ultimately government has the ability — and I would say the responsibility — to make sure that we have a modern utility that's providing clean, green, affordable, reliable energy for Islanders, and Maritime Electric is really falling down on that, so government has to take the lead here," he said. "We could make gradual, sensible investments now so that we have a reliable, clean, green, affordable energy future for Prince Edward Island, long into the future, rather than doing something which takes us backwards and indebts future generations for decades to come." Timelines vary on when the new equipment would arrive once its purchase is approved, but the utility hopes to have everything up and running by 2030.The Black Solo Polyamorous Hijabi Amputee is tearing social media apart
Tech billionaire and X owner Elon Musk added his voice of support for child safety legislation championed by the bipartisan duo of Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT). The two lawmakers worked with X to release an updated version of the Kids Online Safety Act over the weekend after House Republican leadership was critical of the bill's potential First Amendment infringement. However, House GOP leadership has not yet signaled it would bring a House floor vote before Congress wraps up for the year. "Led by X, the new changes made to the Kids Online Safety Act strengthen the bill while safeguarding free speech online and ensuring it is not used to stifle expression,” the senators said in a joint statement. "These changes should eliminate once and for all the false narrative that this bill would be weaponized by unelected bureaucrats to censor Americans." MEET THE NEW CONGRESS: THE HOUSE AND SENATE FRESHMEN ELECTED TO SERVE NEXT YEAR "After working with the bill authors, I’m proud to share that we’ve made progress to further protect freedom of speech while maintaining safety for minors online," Linda Yaccarino, the CEO of X, said. In response, Musk said, "Protecting kids should always be priority #1." Musk is set to have a powerful perch in President-elect Donald Trump's second administration as the co-chairman of the Department of Government Efficiency. His support for certain legislation may have some sway over Republicans eager to appease Trump. Other high-profile conservatives have weighed in support of the new legislation, including Donald Trump Jr., who has growing influence over his father's new administration. "We can protect free speech and our kids at the same time from Big Tech. It's time for House Republicans to pass the Kids Online Safety Act ASAP," he wrote on X. The Senate version of KOSA and the Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act both sailed through the upper chamber in a 91-3 vote at the end of July, but House GOP leadership criticized KOSA as violating free speech and First Amendment rights. In October, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) told Punchbowl News, “I love the principle, but the details of that are very problematic." House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) has also signaled opposition against the legislation. Although the Senate nearly passed the bill unanimously, Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) came out vehemently against the latest version of the legislation after it was announced on Saturday. "KOSA poses such a dire threat to our First Amendment rights that House and Senate leadership must not agree to add it at the last minute to larger pieces of legislation, like the Defense or government spending bills," he wrote on X. The updated version of KOSA would not allow the FTC or any state attorney general the ability to file lawsuits challenging content on social media websites, a change from the previous version of the bill. The legislation largely focuses on requiring social media and tech companies to protect children and teenagers from dangerous content and addictive features. It would also legally require a “duty of care” for companies to prevent and mitigate against the promotion of suicide, sexual exploitation, eating disorders, substance abuse, and advertisements for illegal products. Several mental health and children advocacy groups have supported the bill, along with the American Psychological Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. WHAT IS THE DEBATE OVER FLUORIDE IN DRINKING WATER Blackburn and Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), a champion of the House KOSA bill, are leading a press conference Tuesday morning, along with advocates, at the Capitol to pressure the House to pass KOSA. "Congressman Bilirakis is optimistic that Elon Musk, Donald Trump Jr., and the CEO of X’s recent public statements in support of KOSA will help build the momentum that is needed to propel this critical legislation to protect children across the finish line this term," spokeswoman Summer Blevins told the Washington Examiner. "The congressman is committed to continuing to work with all stakeholders to get this done." The House Energy and Commerce Committee advanced KOSA out of committee in September, but whether it will be added to the end-of-year spending bills remains to be seen. Last month, the Institute of Family Studies was among the conservative groups that sent a letter to House leadership pushing for the passage of KOSA. The group is pleased by X's support for the bill. "It is encouraging to see that Yaccarino and Musk remain fully supportive of this measure. We applaud them for this courageous stance and hope their peers will step forward and do the same," Michael Toscano, the executive director of the Institute for Family Studies, told the Washington Examiner. If the House does take up KOSA and it passes, this would be the first time since 1998 that the federal government has enacted a law to protect children on the internet. President Joe Biden has indicated support of the bill and would likely sign it into law, but whether Republicans are willing to hand the president a last-minute victory before leaving office is unclear. “Every day that goes by without KOSA passing, more children are dying," Blackburn said in a statement to the Washington Examiner. "The endorsement by free speech champions Elon Musk and Donald Trump Jr., along with the revised text, reflects the truth that this bill will protect kids online and protect freedom of speech. It’s time to stop playing politics and pass KOSA.”Tottenham Hotspur could be forced into the January transfer market to sign a new goalkeeper after Guglielmo Vicario underwent surgery on a fractured ankle. Vicario played on in Tottenham’s stunning 4-0 victory over Manchester City, despite being hurt in a challenge from Savinho before half-time. With the Italian having complained of still feeling pain after the game, he and Spurs were stunned to find out he had suffered a fracture to his right ankle that needed surgery. The news came as a huge blow to Spurs and Vicario, and could force the club into the January transfer market to sign a new goalkeeper. “Sometimes football gives you its highs, and sometimes it challenges you in ways you don’t expect,” Vicario wrote in a statement on Instagram. “I played 60 minutes at the Etihad with a broken bone in my ankle, giving absolutely everything I had for the team. Unfortunately, there was no way around this one. I needed surgery. I’m disappointed I won’t be able to help the team for a while. “A massive thank you to the doctors and the staff. The operation went well, and from tomorrow I’ll be working hard to come back stronger, fitter, and ready to give my all for you again.” Vicario is expected to be out for months rather than weeks, and the club had already been considering strengthening their goalkeeper department at the end of the season. That plan may now be accelerated, as head coach Ange Postecoglou will have to rely on 36-year-old Fraser Forster. Vicario’s injury and the surprise it caused at Spurs has taken some of the shine off the superb victory over City in which he kept a clean sheet. Forster has suffered a number of injury problems at Tottenham, but has made three appearances this season, in the Carabao Cup against Coventry City and in the Europa League against AZ Alkmaar and Galatasaray. Tottenham entertain Roma in the Europa League on Thursday night before playing Fulham. They also face Chelsea and Liverpool in the league before January and host Manchester United in the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup.
December 20, 2024 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlightedthe following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: fact-checked peer-reviewed publication trusted source proofread by Suzi Morales, University of Texas at Austin In 2022, U.S. grocers wasted 5 million tons of food, with 35% of it going to landfills, according to the food waste nonprofit ReFed. More than half of that waste—2.7 million tons—was past the labels' expiration dates. But there's a potential technological solution to the waste problem, according to new research from Texas McCombs. By moving from paper shelf labels to digital ones, supermarkets can easily lower prices and move older stock from their shelves to consumers' homes. " Inventory Information Frictions Explain Price Rigidity in Perishable Groceries " is published in Marketing Science . Using technology to quickly change prices on labels, a process known as dynamic pricing , benefits more than just consumers, says Ioannis Stamatopoulos, associate professor of information, risk, and operations management. "Everyone is better off when dynamic pricing is enabled," he says. "There's less food waste and less emissions from food ending up in landfills." Grocers save time and money, too. They can change digital labels—also called electronic shelf labels—with a few keystrokes on a tablet, compared with printing physical labels and sticking them onto shelves. When it's easier and cheaper to update prices, Stamatopoulos says, grocers should do it more often. How much is more often? To find out, Stamatopoulos—with Naveed Chehrazi of Washington University in St. Louis and Robert Sanders of the University of California, San Diego—analyzed two unnamed European grocery chains as they installed the tags. One, in the United Kingdom, introduced digital labels for 940 perishable products. The labels displayed the base price and added discounts as products got closer to expiring. The researchers found the stores changed prices 54% more often. Raising the bar for barcodes The second supermarket chain, in the European Union, adopted electronic labels but added a second technology: expanded barcodes. Unlike a standard barcode, an expanded one can hold inventory details such as packaging dates, lot numbers, and expiration dates. When inventory nears its "sell-by" date, a store can lower prices to stimulate buying. After the EU stores installed the two technologies, the researchers found, they increased price change frequency 853%. Rapid price changes aid shoppers, says Stamatopoulos. "If you're a consumer who really, really cares about price, then you can buy the blueberries that will expire two days later and consume them today." By better managing inventories, the barcodes also boost stores' bottom lines, he adds. "Because the grocery store can put things on discount when they're about to expire, they can afford larger orders, so they take advantage of economies of scale in ordering." The price of dynamic pricing Although dynamic pricing has long-term benefits, it faces short-term obstacles. One is consumer fear that retailers will jack up prices when demand is high—as ride-hailing companies such as Uber do. In February, when the fast-food chain Wendy's announced it would roll out dynamic pricing, it drew backlash . It quickly clarified that it would cut prices during slow periods but not raise them during busy periods. Discover the latest in science, tech, and space with over 100,000 subscribers who rely on Phys.org for daily insights. Sign up for our free newsletter and get updates on breakthroughs, innovations, and research that matter— daily or weekly . But unlike restaurants, it's hard for grocers to pinpoint hours of high demand for individual products, Stamatopoulos notes. "For retailers to estimate demand very finely and dynamically respond accordingly, so as to squeeze every dollar out of it, I think that's kind of impossible," he says. Another barrier is cost. Grocers must invest in digital labels and tablets, while employees must update data daily for thousands of items. Europe is ahead of the U.S. on adopting these technologies, but that could be changing. In June, Walmart announced it will transition to digital price labels in 2,300 stores by 2026. Amazon Fresh and the Midwestern chain Schnuck's are also using them. To speed the transition, Stamatopoulos suggests government subsidies, like those for solar panels and electric vehicles. "Somebody needs to break this equilibrium," he says. "Then things will move to a new era where everybody's using the additional information." More information: Naveed Chehrazi et al, Inventory Information Frictions Explain Price Rigidity in Perishable Groceries, Marketing Science (2024). DOI: 10.1287/mksc.2023.0473 Journal information: Marketing Science Provided by University of Texas at Austin
The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has said that its digital Pension Industry Shared Services (PISS) initiative has reached advanced stage of implementation. Director General of PenCom, Omolola Oloworaran, who disclosed this in Lagos during 2024 PenCom conference for Journalists said this initiative will digitize pension contributions and remittances, ensuring seamless processing of contributions and resolving discrepancies caused by incomplete remittance details. She said as part of measure to further enhance contributors’ experiences, the commission has introduced a revised programme withdrawal template, simplifying access to voluntary contributions and revising the threshold for en-bloc payments in line with the new minimum wage. She stated that the Commission has achieved a major milestone with the launch of the e-Application Portal for Pension Clearance Certificates (PCC) in October. This initiative according to her replaces the previous manual process, enabling companies to seamlessly apply for and receive PCCs online. She, however, said that since its deployment, the Commission has issued over 38,000 PCCs, significantly enhancing ease of doing business and ensuring compliance. She said with transformation in Technology, we have over 10.5 million contributors and total oversee pension assets stood in access of N21.9 trillion as at October, demonstrating the strength of our contributory pension system. On the other part she said despite the growth of the sector it still faced with a lot of challenges, noting that inflation for instance has continues to erode the purchasing power of pensioners, and the Commission is actively seeking innovative solutions to address this issue.None
They play in the NFC South. There is more good news: The Falcons' next two opponents, the Las Vegas Raiders and New York Giants, are tied for the NFL's worst record at 2-11. Coach Raheem Morris says he is sticking with Cousins for next Monday night's game at Las Vegas. Sunday's 42-21 loss at Minnesota dropped Atlanta to 6-7, one game behind Tampa Bay in the NFC South. The Falcons hold the tiebreaker advantage over the Buccaneers, so if they can take advantage of their cushy closing stretch of games that also includes Washington and Carolina, they could salvage their season. “We’re right in this thing,” right guard Chris Lindstrom said Monday before acknowledging he is “obviously not happy or satisfied with where we’re at." Lindstrom said he maintains "the ultimate belief in what we’re doing and everything that we have going on and everything is still in front of us.” Cousins and the Falcons must solve their red-zone woes to maintain hopes of the team's first playoff appearance since 2017. The Falcons rank eighth in the NFL with 371 yards per game but only 19th with their average of 21.4 points thanks to their persistent problems inside the 20. Even the forgiving NFC South can't make up for the scoring problems caused by penalties, turnovers and other persistent breakdowns. “You can't live with it at all,” Morris said Monday when asked about Cousins' recent streak of interceptions. Even so, Cousins remains the starter as first-round draft pick Michael Penix Jr. awaits his opportunity. “It’s for sure Kirk is our quarterback but I have no hesitations about what our young man has been doing and how he has been preparing and the things he is ready to do,” Morris said. “So if that time ever came I would have a lot of confidence in what Mike is able to do, but Kirk is our quarterback. Kirk is the guy who is going to lead us.” With four sacks against the Vikings, the Falcons may have finally solved their longtime pass-rush woes. Atlanta had five sacks in a 17-13 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers on Dec. 1, giving the team back-to-back games with at least four sacks for the first time since 2019. Outside linebacker Arnold Ebiketie had one of Sunday's sacks, giving him four for the season. With nine sacks in the last two games, the Falcons have almost doubled their NFL-low total of 10 through their first 11 games. Even as the pass rush was productive, the Falcons' defense showed a sudden inability to prevent big plays through the air. Atlanta allowed four completions of more than 40 yards as Vikings receivers Jordan Addison and Justin Jefferson combined to catch five scoring passes from Sam Darnold, who did not throw an interception. Morris said the Vikings' strategy was to avoid cornerback A.J. Terrell, “making other people make plays, and we didn’t go out there and make them.” Running back Tyler Allgeier had nine carries for 63 yards and a touchdown. Even while Bijan Robinson continued to produce with 22 carries for 92 yards and a score, Allgeier re-emerged as a strong complement with his second-highest rushing total of the season. Cousins has an unhealthy ratio of 17 touchdown passes to 15 interceptions. “Kirk was the guy who led us to the 6-3 record,” Morris said. “We’ve got to find a way to get out of the funk. ... For us, it’s going to be his opportunity to go out and right the ship and he has earned it.” 142: Wide receiver Darnell Mooney set a career high with 142 yards on six catches. It was the third game this season Mooney has led the Falcons in receiving yards. Former Atlanta quarterback Desmond Ridder is expected to start for the Raiders on Monday night after Aidan O’Connell's knee injury in Sunday's 28-13 loss at Tampa Bay. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl
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IT'S HARD not to imagine what life would be like in a warmer country, once the British winter fully gets going. Having moved from London to Lisbon in 2020, I can guarantee you there are plenty of headaches while you find your 'Place In The Sun.' While I have been able to bask in exotic Portugal with no impending checkout date, it's also certainly not one big, long holiday... Here are some of the things I wish I'd known before I booked my one-way ticket... In fact, it's a far cry from Emily In Paris - which first came out just months after I moved. It's not just a case of stepping on a plane and being on your merry way, and visas for some countries can be complex and expensive to get hold of. Obviously, there are many aspects of moving abroad that will vary depending on your own personal situation. For instance, I have rented rather than bought, and work as a freelancer rather than being employed by a company. Additionally, some of the lesser-known bits of admin hinge on the fact that your extended period away from the UK probably means you are no longer a taxpayer. That involves letting Student Loans Company know of your new whereabouts, informing HMRC and deregistering from the NHS. As well as reading the huge amount of official information available online, it's always worth - if you can - consulting a lawyer or accountant familiar with the UK system and the country you're moving to, for tailored advice. Because, in turn - and I promise moving abroad does get less boring - you'll need to set yourself up on the other side too, likely with everything from the tax to the healthcare systems. It's why properly moving abroad - as opposed to going travelling for a while - really does force you to commit, if you want to do it all properly. If your language skills aren't quite there yet, then you'll almost certainly save stress and money in the long run by paying a local expert, such as a lawyer or accountant, for some extra help. You'll likely be ticking off these small milestones on your own individual timeline - unless you've relocated with a partner or family. For instance, I remember celebrating solo when I finally received my Portuguese social security and national health numbers. The above is a reminder that moving abroad can feel lonely at the start and I had a real fear I'd make no friends. But I soon discovered that it's far easier to find new pals than you might think, when you start putting yourself out there. Portuguese lessons, the MeetUp app, a co-working space and friends of friends - these are the main ways I've been able to build a lovely network in Lisbon over the past four years. There are other ways, less relevant to me, that others I know have used to find their people after moving abroad - including through having kids at nursery or school, joining a run club or working locally. And, because everyone - at least in the expat crowd - knows how it feels to be the newbie far from home, people tend to happily take you under their wing. Imagine being an adult but with the life skills of a five-year-old - that’s how it feels when you're trying to get things done that you could practically do in your sleep back home. For me, that was things like remembering to take my ID to the post office, or finding out that I needed to drop the recycling - already separated into paper and plastics - off half-way down the hill. Also, that I needed to file my tax return at an entirely different time of year, or that buying a new smoke alarm would prove such a mission - it turns out they're like gold dust in the Portuguese capital . You'll slowly begin to get the hang of everything, and then lesson number 383 of 'how to be an adult in Portugal' strikes and you'll end up in tears again. This can add up in cost if you're not careful, particularly if you're using a shipping company to move over things like furniture or heavy items like books. I was pretty proud that I'd managed to head out to Lisbon with just a large suitcase and two boxes, as extra hold luggage on my EasyJet flight. However, it was shocking how quickly I accumulated items - like hangers and toiletries - when moving between flats on AirBnb, before finally settling in a long-term let. Of course, some people move abroad for the rest of their lives, but the chances are that you might relocate elsewhere one day - or back to the UK - and it has made me think twice before stocking up on too many Portuguese ceramics. Growing up, my idea of moving abroad was shaped by those families in A Place In The Sun or Grand Designs Abroad , who had sunk a small fortune into a quaint farmhouse in France and had to wade through hellish bureaucracy. While it can certainly be stressful - like the time I lost my residence permit card and it took me five months to get another - it's a journey that has pushed me out of my comfort zone and forced me to be resourceful. What's more, I've made the most amazing memories - exploring Portugal without having to set foot on a plane and getting to authentically experience an entirely different culture. I've also made friends from all over the world, for life, while also forging really meaningful connections with those who matter back home. If I could go back in time I wouldn't change a thing. Packaged sandwiches There is nothing quite like a egg mayo or tuna and cucumber sarnie from the country of its birth. I hadn’t realised until I left that it’s the perfect fast lunch - quickly purchased, smoothly transported and easily consumed pretty much anywhere. Public transport We love to moan about the price... the delays... the strikes, but we also forget quite how much the car reigns supreme in other countries . I’ve had to get accustomed again to faffing around with a physical ticket instead of contactless for the metro, and waiting for the bus is a bit of a gamble. Plus, there are amazing parts of Portugal cut off pretty much entirely unless you’re happy to get behind the wheel. Proper puddings Portugal is home to the world-renowned pastel de nata, but in my opinion there is something second to none about British desserts. Who can resist a sticky toffee pudding, apple crumble or chocolate sponge when spotted on a pub menu.
For the first time since 2016, a new team is joining Formula 1 — Cadillac. Nearly two years after General Motors first announced it was launching a bid to join the premier class of international racing for open-wheel, single-seater formula racing cars, the automaker, along with TWG Global, have reached an agreement in principle with F1 to introduce a Cadillac team to the series in 2026. Since that bid first began, GM has been assembling its team, which will include board member Mario Andretti. Additionally, GM is also launching an F1 power unit that will eventually allow the Cadillac F1 team to be "full works," which means it will build its own vehicles and power units for its races. GM is hoping Cadillac will be a full works team by 2030. This will give GM and Cadillac more control over their own vehicles and a chance to develop innovative new high-performance engineering, including software, vehicle dynamics simulation, aerodynamics, and chassis and component development. It will also help showcase the brand to the million-plus viewers who have made Formula One among the fastest-growing sports in the world. While Cadillac has been around since the turn of the last century, GM has made it clear it's looking toward the future rather than the past with its new Caddys. Earlier this year, it unveiled its futuristic concept coupe, the Cadillac Opulent Velocity . It's very possible that technology developed by its F1 team may also find its way into street-legal passenger cars at some point. "As the pinnacle of motorsports, F1 demands boundary-pushing innovation and excellence," said GM President Mark Reuss in a statement. "This is a global stage for us to demonstrate GM's engineering expertise and technology leadership at an entirely new level." Formula One racing isn't just about the vehicles but the people behind them — which is exactly why it's such a tough sport to win. Cadillac isn't taking its spot as F1's eleventh team lightly and is bringing some of the biggest names in auto racing into the fold to ensure it's a Caddy that crosses the finish line first. "We're excited to partner with General Motors in bringing a dynamic presence to Formula 1," said Dan Towriss , CEO of TWG Global's motorsports businesses. "Together, we're assembling a world-class team that will embody American innovation and deliver unforgettable moments to race fans around the world." This world-class team will include none other than automotive Hall of Famer Mario Andretti, who has won the Indy 500, Daytona 500, a dozen Grands Prix, and many other races — some of them while driving a 1965 Ford Brawner Hawk . In fact, Andretti was the last American to have been an F1 champion — though GM, who has enlisted the 84-year-old for its board of directors, clearly hopes he can bring future victories to the Cadillac team. "My first love was Formula 1," said Andretti, "and now — 70 years later — the F1 paddock is still my happy place." He continued, "To still be involved at this stage of my life — I have to pinch myself to make sure I'm not dreaming." With operations in Fishers, Indiana; Charlotte, North Carolina; Warren, Michigan; and Silverstone, England, Andretti and the Cadillac team will officially compete in their first F1 circuit in 2026. Hopefully, the first Caddy they produce and race won't end up on the list of the worst F1 cars ever made .
