Individual Benefits Research Articles

Case for Establishing a National Stroke Activation Fee in the United States: Learning From Trauma Centers.

There is a large burden of stroke in the United States, and extensive systems of care have been established to address it. The resources devoted to stroke centers are analogous to those of trauma centers, both sharing many strict requirements for certification, clinical preparedness, quality improvement, data management, and reporting. However, trauma programs partly defray these costs through a trauma activation billing code, a billable fee that is charged for activation of the trauma team under strict criteria. There are potential benefits to establishing an analogous national stroke code activation fee. Although a billable stroke code activation fee may increase financial burden on patients, this may be counterbalanced by the significant potential for individual and societal benefits. Providing additional financial support for stroke systems of care may improve acute stroke treatment, reduce stroke burden and poststroke disability, and reduce inequality by broadening the reach of stroke systems of care to disadvantaged communities. Further evaluation of the costs and benefits of implementing a stroke code activation fee based on that currently used by trauma centers is needed.

Probiotic characterisation of lactic acid bacteria isolated from pickles and their potential application as presumptive probiotic starter culture in cucumber pickles

Abstract This study aimed to isolate lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from traditional pickles, analyse their probiotic properties, identify them and evaluate their potential use in the production of cucumber pickles. The majority of the isolates (65) demonstrated survival at pH 3.0, while only three isolates exhibited this ability at pH 2.0. All isolates were resistant to 0.3% and 1% bile salts and survived at 1.5% (v/v) NaCl. However, the majority of isolates exhibited survival at 10% (v/v) NaCl (73 isolates), phenol (0.4%) (64 isolates), and pepsin (81 isolates) and pancreatin presence (78 isolates). The majority of the isolates demonstrated susceptibility to antibiotics and exhibited antimicrobial activities. Furthermore, some isolates demonstrated limited proteolytic and β-galactosidase activities, with the limited proteolytic activity being particularly beneficial for contributing to positive sensorial properties in this study. Following the evaluation of the probiotic test results, selected isolates were identified as Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lactiplantibacillus pentosus, Levilactobacillus brevis, Lentilactobacillus parabuchneri and Pediococcus parvulus based on 16S rRNA sequence analysis. Cucumber pickles were then produced with presumptive probiotics (L. brevis T7, L. parabuchneri T10, L. plantarum T12, and P. parvulus T13) in both single and mixed cell forms, fermented for 15 days and stored at 4 °C for 5 weeks. The results demonstrated that cucumber pickles contained > 6 log CFU/g of presumptive probiotics at the end of fermentation. Sensory analysis results showed that cucumber pickles enriched with presumptive probiotics were acceptable compared to the negative control sample (spontaneously fermented). The findings also highlight the functional potential of the samples, with PS3 offering benefits for lactose-intolerant individuals and PS2 demonstrating antimicrobial activity. It is possible to offer cucumber pickles to consumers as an alternative probiotic product; however, further research is required to ascertain the viability of probiotics over an extended period.

Exploring the Intersection of ADHD and Music: A Systematic Review

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a highly prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder, affecting both children and adults, which often leads to significant difficulties with attention, impulsivity, and working memory. These challenges can impact various cognitive and perceptual domains, including music perception and performance. Despite these difficulties, individuals with ADHD frequently engage with music, and previous research has shown that music listening can serve as a means of increasing stimulation and self-regulation. Moreover, music therapy has been explored as a potential treatment option for individuals with ADHD. As there is a lack of integrative reviews on the interaction between ADHD and music, the present review aimed to fill the gap in research. Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted across PsychInfo (Ovid), PubMed, and Web of Science. A narrative synthesis was conducted on 20 eligible studies published between 1981 and 2023, involving 1170 participants, of whom 830 had ADHD or ADD. The review identified three main areas of research: (1) music performance and processing in individuals with ADHD, (2) the use of music listening as a source of stimulation for those with ADHD, and (3) music-based interventions aimed at mitigating ADHD symptoms. The analysis revealed that individuals with ADHD often experience unique challenges in musical tasks, particularly those related to timing, rhythm, and complex auditory stimuli perception, though these deficits did not extend to rhythmic improvisation and musical expression. Most studies indicated that music listening positively affects various domains for individuals with ADHD. Furthermore, most studies of music therapy found that it can generate significant benefits for individuals with ADHD. The strength of these findings, however, was limited by inconsistencies among the studies, such as variations in ADHD diagnosis, comorbidities, medication use, and gender. Despite these limitations, this review provides a valuable foundation for future research on the interaction between ADHD and music.

Designing community-based strategies to reach non-household contacts of people with tuberculosis in Lusaka, Zambia: a rapid qualitative study among key stakeholders

BackgroundIn high-burden settings, most tuberculosis (TB) transmission likely occurs outside the home. Our qualitative study in Zambia explored the acceptability and preferences for designing TB active case finding (ACF) strategies to reach non-household contacts of people with TB.MethodsWe conducted 56 in-depth interviews with persons with TB (n = 12), TB healthcare workers (HCWs) (n = 10), TB lay HCWs (n = 10), and leaders/owners (n = 12) and attendees (n = 12) of community venue types identified as potential TB transmission locations. Interviews explored TB attitudes and beliefs, and perceptions toward two ACF strategies targeting non-household contacts: (1) “social-network strategy”—persons with newly diagnosed TB reach out to their close non-household contacts and (2) “venue-based strategy”—HCWs conduct screening at community venues frequented by persons with newly diagnosed TB. We used the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) framework to develop interview topic guides and analyze data using a rapid deductive approach.ResultsAll participants felt that TB was an important issue in their community and that new detection strategies were needed. A “social-network strategy” was perceived as acceptable and feasible, where participants noted it was a caring act and could facilitate early diagnosis. For a “venue-based strategy,” most participants suspected TB transmission occurred at bars/taverns due to heavy alcohol use and prolonged time spent in crowded spaces; churches and betting halls were also commonly mentioned locations. Nearly all owners/leaders and patrons/attendees of bars, churches, and betting halls expressed acceptance of a venue-based strategy. They also indicated an interest in participating, citing many benefits, including increased TB knowledge/awareness, early diagnosis, convenience, and possibly reduced transmission, and recommended that the strategy incorporate sensitization, consent, volunteerism, and respectful, confidential, private services. For both strategies, most participants preferred the use of and being approached by trained peer TB survivors to facilitate ACF, given their prior TB patient experience and trust among community members.ConclusionStakeholders found social-network and venue-based TB-ACF strategies highly acceptable, recognizing their potential benefits for individuals and the broader community. Future research should evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of TB ACF strategies for reaching non-household contacts.

Prevalence of Vitamin K2 Deficiency and Its Association with Coronary Artery Disease: A Case–Control Study

Background/Objectives: Vitamin K2 analogs are associated with decreased vascular calcification, which may provide protective benefits for individuals with coronary artery disease (CAD) by stimulating anti-calcific proteins like matrix Gla protein and adjusting innate immune responses. This study addresses a significant gap in understanding the association between serum levels of vitamin K2 analogs in different CAD types and examines their correlations with clinical risk parameters in CAD patients. Methods: This case–control study enrolled CAD patients and healthy controls to assess and compare serum concentrations of two vitamin K2 analogs including menaquinone-4 (MK-4) and menaquinone-7 (MK-7) via ultra-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). CAD risk factors were evaluated and related to serum levels of vitamin K2 analogs. The CAD group was further subdivided into stable angina, STEMI, NSTEMI, and unstable angina groups to investigate potential differences in vitamin K2 analog levels. Results: Patients experiencing acute coronary syndrome exhibited notably reduced serum levels of MK-4 and MK-7 (1.61 ± 0.66, and 1.64 ± 0.59 ng/mL, respectively) in comparison to the control group (2.29 ± 0.54, and 2.16 ± 0.46 ng/mL, respectively), with MK-4 and MK-7 displaying stronger associations with CAD risk indicators. Notable variations in vitamin K2 analog levels were found between CAD patients and control groups (p < 0.001). Unstable angina patients showed the lowest serum levels of MK-4 and MK-7. Conclusions: The present study demonstrated a higher prevalence rate of vitamin K2 deficiency among patients with CAD. The most pronounced decrease in MK-4 and MK-7 was observed in unstable angina patients. Moreover, these outcomes indicate the imperative requirement for an integrative approach that incorporates metabolic, lipid, and vitamin K2-related pathways in the risk stratification and management of CAD.

Multipotent Effect of Clozapine on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acetylcholinesterase, Cyclooxygenase-2,5-Lipoxygenase, and Caspase-3: In Vivo and Molecular Modeling Studies

Dual inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and lipoxygenase (LOX) is a recognized strategy for enhanced anti-inflammatory effects in small molecules, offering potential therapeutic benefits for individuals at risk of dementia, particularly those with neurodegenerative diseases, common cancers, and diabetes type. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia, and the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is a key approach in treating AD. Meanwhile, Caspase-3 catalyzes early events in apoptosis, contributing to neurodegeneration and subsequently AD. Structure-based virtual screening of US-FDA-approved molecules from the ZINC15 database identified clozapine (CLOZ) as the dual inhibitor of COX-2 and AChE, with significant binding affinity. Further molecular docking of CLOZ in the active site of LOX and Caspase-3 also showed significant binding potential. Further, the results from molecular docking were validated using molecular dynamics simulation (MDS) studies, confirming the results from molecular docking. The results from MDS showed good binding potential and interactions with key residues. The CLOZ was further assessed using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-challenged rats treated for thirty days at doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg, p.o. The results demonstrated modulation of COX-2, 5-LOX, AChE, Caspase-3, and MDA in LPS-induced brains. Additionally, the expression level of IL-10 was also measured. Our results showed a significant decrease in the levels of COX-2, 5-LOX, AChE, Caspase-3, and MDA. Our results also showed a significant decrement in the pro-inflammatory markers NF-κB, TNF-α, and IL-6 and an improvement in the levels of anti-inflammatory markers IL-10 and TGF-β1. Overall, the findings indicate that CLOZ has potential for neuroprotective effects against LPS-treated rats and can be explored.

Redosing with Intralymphatic GAD-Alum in the Treatment of Type 1 Diabetes: The DIAGNODE-B Pilot Trial.

Immunotherapies aimed at preserving residual beta cell function in type 1 diabetes have been successful, although the effect has been limited, or raised safety concerns. Transient effects often observed may necessitate redosing to prolong the effect, although this is not always feasible or safe. Treatment with intralymphatic GAD-alum has been shown to be tolerable and safe in persons with type 1 diabetes and has shown significant efficacy to preserve C-peptide with associated clinical benefit in individuals with the human leukocyte antigen DR3DQ2 haplotype. To further explore the feasibility and advantages of redosing with intralymphatic GAD-alum, six participants who had previously received active treatment with intralymphatic GAD-alum and carried HLA DR3-DQ2 received one additional intralymphatic dose of 4 μg GAD-alum in the pilot trial DIAGNODE-B. The participants also received 2000 U/day vitamin D (Calciferol) supplementation for two months, starting one month prior to the GAD-alum injection. During the 12-month follow-up, residual beta cell function was estimated with Mixed-Meal Tolerance Tests, and clinical and immune responses were observed. C-peptide decreased minimally, and most patients showed stable HbA1c and IDAA1c. The mean % TIR increased while the mean daily insulin dose decreased at month 12 compared to the baseline. Redosing with GAD-alum seems to be safe and tolerable, and may prolong the disease modification elicited by the original GAD-alum treatment.

Teaching Walking in Physical Education

This article explores the value of teaching walking within the context of PE. It delves into the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective aspects of walking instruction, highlighting its multifaceted benefits for individuals across the lifespan.

Genetic Analyses on Transgender Individuals: Impact on Physician Attitudes and Surgical Decision-Making.

Genetic studies on the transgender and gender diverse (TGD) community have started to appear in the literature. However, there are limited studies on how genetic data will impact attitudes and perspectives toward TGD individuals. In this study, we investigated the impact of genetic alterations on physicians' attitudes toward TGD individuals and on physicians' decisions concerning gender confirmation surgery (GCS). In this context, we intended to highlight a number of strategies to reduce the inequalities that the TGD community is exposed to in accessing health-care services. An online survey including the Turkish version of the Attitudes Toward Transgendered Individuals Scale (ATTIS) was completed by 224 physicians from relevant specialties. Scheffé and least significant difference (LSD) post hoc analysis methods were used to determine physicians' perspectives on whether genetic findings would cause TGD individuals to feel validated/invalidated. Multivariate multinomial logistic regression analysis was employed to assess their responses concerning the decision to perform GCS when genetic alterations had been identified. More than half of the physicians expressed the view that genetic analyses for TGD individuals would confer benefits (67.1%). Those who thought that the presence of gender-diversity-related genetic alterations would have a "positive impact" on their GCS-related decision to operate were found to have less positive attitudes toward TGD individuals (Bonferroni corrected p < 0.001). Multivariate multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed that age, presenting the odds ratio as the strongest factor, distinguished the "no impact" group from the reference "positive impact" group, particularly among those aged ≤ 35 years (3.299, 95% CI: 1.355-8.033; p = 0.009). Although genetic analysis of TGD individuals is predicted to have a positive effect on physicians' attitudes toward them and on the GCS decision-making process, it should be emphasized that the benefits for TGD individuals must outweigh the potential harm. The results showed that physicians need "early and continuing education" to develop a comprehensive perspective on gender identity. The most appropriate approach for genetic testing would be to include the TGD community in decision-making processes and to develop guidelines for the interpretation of genetic data.

Combined effects of climate stressors and soil arsenic contamination on metabolic profiles and productivity of rice (Oryza sativa L.).

Rice productivity and quality are increasingly at risk in arsenic (As) affected areas, challenge that is expected to worsen under changing climatic conditions. Free-Air Concentration Enrichment experiments revealed that eCO2, eO3, and eTemp, whether acting individually or in combination with low and high As irrigation, significantly impact rice yield and grain quality. Elevated CO₂ significantly increased shoot biomass, with minimal impact on root biomass, except under low As irrigation conditions. In contrast, eTemp alone reduced both shoot and root biomass, though the effect was not significant; eO₃ alone had little to no effect. Combined climatic stressors showed slight positive effects on growth. Under low As irrigation, eCO2 and eO3 promoted root growth but reduced shoot growth, while eTemp significantly suppressed both. High As irrigation exacerbated yield reductions, with the most severe decline observed under eTemp (66%), followed by eCO2 (48%), eO3 (36%), and their combination (35%). Arsenic irrigation, whether low or high, reduced macro and micronutrient concentrations in rice grains, with calcium being sole exception, remaining stable or even increasing. Sugar metabolites decreased under eCO2, eO3, and eTemp, but increased with As irrigation. Interestingly, climatic variables generally reduced grain As levels, high As irrigation combined with eCO2 exposure resulted in elevated grain As. This poses a dual concern: increased cancer risk due to As but potential benefit for individuals with diabetes, as the higher amylose content contributes to lower glycemic index. However, rice grown under high As irrigation exhibited significant nutritional imbalances, being rich in maltose and amylose but deficient in organic acids, phytosterols, fatty acids, organosilicons, and carboxylic acids. These findings underscore the dual threat of climate change and As contamination to rice productivity and quality. Developing resilient rice varieties with low grain As content is essential to ensure sustainable agricultural production and nutritional security in As affected regions.

Instructional Insights: Learnings from a Case Study of Collaborating with an Individual with Lived Experience in Occupational Therapy Education

This case study shares the knowledge gained from working with an individual having lived experience of a health condition contributing toward an occupational therapy education module through the reflections of an occupational therapy academic and an individual with lived experience working in a university. The primary goal is to establish an empirical evidence base for involvement of people with lived experience in occupational therapy education and to encourage other educators and individuals with lived experience to follow this model of teaching and learning in their curricula. Based on the belief that teaching and learning through co-production creates a ‘triangle’ of benefit for individuals with lived experience, students and academics. Individuals with lived experience are seen as powerful, independent, and strong despite their medical condition. Students learn more about important aspects of service provision beyond direct medical and therapy knowledge and academics learn about and model this new way of working. The aim is to promote development of co-production learning activities in occupational therapy education.

Effect of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) Techniques in COPD patients: A narrative review

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive, incurable lung condition marked by persistent airflow limitation, predominantly affecting smokers. It ranks as the third leading cause of global morbidity and mortality. Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) techniques, involving externally applied proprioceptive and tactile stimuli, can elicit reflex respiratory responses, influencing breathing rate and depth. Aim: To determine the effectiveness of PNF techniques in COPD condition. Results: Several articles are used to discuss the effectiveness of the PNF techniques in COPD. Integrating PNF techniques into pulmonary rehabilitation offers significant benefits for individuals with COPD. These techniques enhance respiratory function by improving air exchange, boosting respiratory parameters, and increasing oxygen saturation levels, all while maintaining a stable respiratory rate. Conclusion: PNF serves as a valuable adjunct or alternative to traditional therapies, effectively improving respiratory function and overall quality of life (QOL) for patients.

Working Memory and Inhibition as Mediators in the Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Emotional Eating.

Objective: Previous studies have focused on the dual relationship among adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), cognitive abilities, and emotional eating. The current study aims to test the mediating role of executive functioning (working memory and inhibition) between ACEs and emotional eating. Methods: A total of 1105 community-based participants, aged 18-45 (Mean = 26.28, SD = 7.09), were included in the study. Among the participants, 698 (63.16%) were female, and 407 (36.84%) were male. Participants completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire; the Adult Executive Functioning Inventory; the Dutch Eating Behaviour Scale; the Life Events Checklist; and the Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale Short Form. Multiple mediation analyses were employed using MPlus 8.3. Results: Multiple mediation analysis results showed that working memory and inhibition mediate the relationship between ACEs and emotional eating. Furthermore, working memory and inhibition were positively correlated with emotional eating. Discussion: Our findings indicate that difficulties in working memory and inhibition may increase the risk of emotional eating. Early intervention targeting executive functions may prevent emotional eating. Public Significance: Our findings highlight the relationship among ACEs, executive functioning, and emotional eating. Intervening in executive function may have clinical benefits for individuals with ACEs.

The metabolome of male and female individuals with knee osteoarthritis is influenced by 18-months of weight loss intervention: the IDEA trial

BackgroundThe Intensive Diet and Exercise for Arthritis (IDEA) trial was a randomized trial conducted to evaluate the effects of diet and exercise on osteoarthritis (OA), the most prevalent form of arthritis. Various risk factors, including obesity and sex, contribute to OA’s debilitating nature. While diet and exercise are known to improve OA symptoms, cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying these interventions, as well as effects of participant sex, remain elusive.MethodsSerum was obtained at three timepoints from IDEA participants assigned to groups of diet, exercise, or combined diet and exercise (n = 10 per group). A randomly selected subset of serum samples were extracted and analyzed via liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry combined with metabolomic profiling to unveil mechanisms associated with types of intervention and disease. Extracted serum was pooled and fragmentation patterns were analyzed to identify metabolites that statistically differentially regulated between groups.ResultsChanges in metabolism across male and female IDEA participants after 18-months of diet, exercise, and combined diet and exercise intervention mapped to lipid, amino acid, carbohydrate, vitamin, and matrix metabolism. The diverse metabolic landscape detected across IDEA participants shows that intervention type differentially impacts the serum metabolome of OA individuals. Moreover, dissimilarities in the serum metabolome corresponded with participant sex.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that intensive weight loss among males and females offers potential metabolic benefits for individuals with knee OA. This study provides a deeper understanding of dysregulation occurring during OA development in parallel with various interventions, potentially paving the way for improved interventions, treatments, and quality of life of those impacted by OA.Trial Registrationclinicaltrials.gov Identifier NCT00381290, Registered, 9/25/2006.

Exploring the impact and mechanisms of behavioral activation on sleep disorders in colorectal cancer: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundColorectal cancer (CRC) patients frequently experience sleep disturbances, significantly impacting their quality of life. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is considered the first-line treatment but is often complex, costly, and requires highly trained therapists. Behavioral activation (BA), derived from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), offers a flexible, simple, and cost-effective alternative. BA highlights the importance of activation, a strategy that encourages active participation in positive, meaningful activities to boost positive experiences and reduce negative emotions, which may have potential benefits for individuals with sleep disorders. This study explores the effects of BA on sleep disturbances, quality of life, and psychological distress in CRC patients and investigates potential underlying mechanisms.MethodsThe study included 101 CRC patients with sleep disturbances, who were randomly assigned to either the BA group (n = 53) or the usual care (UC) group (n = 48). Assessments of quality of life, sleep disturbances, psychological distress, activation, avoidance, and physical activity levels were conducted at baseline (T0), four weeks later (T1), and post-intervention (T2). Generalized estimating equation (GEE) analysis was used to evaluate the intervention’s impact and potential mediating effects.ResultsThe BA group experienced significant improvements in sleep disturbances (Wald's χ2 = 7.979, P = 0.019), enhanced quality of life (Wald's χ2 = 6.435.P = 0.04), and reduced psychological distress (Wald's χ2 = 56.728, P < 0.001) compared to the UC group. Physical activity (P < 0.001) partially mediated the intervention effects of BA on sleep disturbances, while activation (P = 0.073) demonstrated marginal mediating effects.ConclusionBA is an effective psychological intervention that significantly improves sleep disturbances, enhances quality of life, and alleviates psychological distress in CRC patients. Mediator analysis indicates that physical activity partially mediates the effects of BA on sleep disturbances, with activation showing marginal significance. Future research should further investigate the underlying mechanisms and long-term effects of BA on sleep disturbances.

The Mediating Role of Social Support between Psychological Distress and Mental Well-Being

Not only can individuals benefit themselves but also their immediate environment and society as a whole when they are mentally healthy. An elevated level of mental health may stimulate positivity. Therefore, it is crucial to thoroughly examine and resolve the issue. Psychological distress is a common experience that individuals encounter at different stages of life. When faced with a challenging situation, individuals can benefit from social support resources. The distress individuals endure influences how they assess their mental health and social support resources. In this context, the present study aims to examine the mediating role of social support in the relationship between psychological distress and mental well-being. For the first time, the relationships between these variables were examined. Data were collected from 434 adult volunteers. The structural equation modelling (SEM) method was employed to analyse the mediation between the concepts. The analyses' results indicated that psychological distress was a predictor of mental well-being, both directly and indirectly through interpersonal support. Individuals who are experiencing distress exhibit diminished levels of mental well-being and perceive less social support. Perceiving more support from their environment and experiencing less distress can enhance individuals' mental health.

Distributed Task Allocation for Multiple UAVs Based on Swarm Benefit Optimization

The auction mechanism stands as a pivotal distributed solution approach for addressing the task allocation problem in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) swarms, with its rapid solution capability well-suited to meet the real-time requirements of aerial mission planning for UAV swarms. Building upon the auction mechanism, this paper proposes a distributed task allocation method for multi-UAV grounded in swarm benefits optimization. The method introduces individual benefit variation to quantify the effect of a task on the benefit of a single UAV, thereby enabling direct optimization of swarm benefit through these individual benefit variations. Within the formulated individual benefit calculation, both the spatial distance between tasks and UAVs and the initial task value along with its temporal decay are taken into account, ensuring a thorough and accurate assessment. Additionally, the method incorporates real-time updates of individual benefits for each UAV, reflecting the dynamic state of task benefit fluctuations within the swarm. Monte Carlo simulation experiments demonstrate that, for a swarm size of 16 UAVs and 80 tasks, the proposed method achieves an average swarm benefit improvement of approximately 2% and 4% over the Consensus-Based Bundle Algorithm (CBBA) and Performance Impact (PI) methods, respectively, thus validating its effectiveness.

Ecological Sustainability and Ecological Certification of Organizations: Individual Benefit or Public Commitment of Economic Sector Managers

The text presents the results of a survey among 58 owners or managers of commercial companies that have sustainably implemented an environmental management system through their ISO 14001 certification. The study of management representatives is based on the understanding that business organizations play the role of intermediaries in environmental policy and the potential change of their behavior multiplies the effects of the interventions on the behavior of others - business partners, employees, and consumers. The data can be used to explain the real processes of pro-environmental policies in the country and improve them taking into account the established barriers and obstacles to the pro-environmental behavior of the studied group.

PEMBENTUKAN HUFFAZ MELALUI PENERAPAN KONSEP SUFISME DALAM PENDIDIKAN TAHFIZ

Tahfiz education or Quran memorization has become one of the mainstream education nowadays. The main goal is to produce huffaz who can memorize 30 juz perfectly. However, tahfiz education is not only memorizing but also understanding the teachings of Islam contained in the Quran. Therefore, the application of the concept of Sufism in tahfiz education can help form huffaz who not only memorize, but also understand and delve deeper into Islamic teachings. The concept of Sufism is also known as Sufism in tahfiz education can help strengthen the spiritual relationship with God and strengthen a person's faith and piety. The huffaz who are formed through tahfiz education with a Sufism approach are expected to play an important role in defending the authenticity of the Qur'an, as well as helping to improve their own spiritual understanding and experience. This article aims to analyze the concept of Sufism to be applied in tahfiz education towards the formation of excellent huffaz and its benefits for individuals, society, and Muslims as a whole.

Unbundling Social Security from the Payroll Tax

This Article emphasizes that social security funding has contributed significantly to the shift in tax burdens from high income and wealth to low and moderate income and wealth individuals. To preserve social security as a welfare program primarily for older individuals and to ameliorate the distributional inequity of funding social security across income and wealth levels, the Article proposes unbundling of the benefit side of social security from its longstanding payroll tax funding mechanism. The Article recommends substituting a budget allocation from general revenues for current payroll tax revenue. The substitution would be accompanied by revenue replacement through limitations on both social security benefits for higher income individuals and more general, high income centric tax expenditures while increasing income tax marginal rates moderately. Modifying social security benefits from their current overinclusive, entitlement structure for all to moderately needs-based entitlement possibly freed from the constraint of the current contribution requirement that makes social security underinclusive would help provide the older population an income to facilitate dignified aging.