Master of Science / Department of Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health / Jennifer Hanson / Longevity, and factors that may increase the human lifespan, have been the topic of many research studies attempting to pinpoint direct positive influences. Research demonstrates that among those who live beyond an average life expectancy, approximately 25% of the increased lifespan is related to genetics. The remaining 75% is largely due to environmental factors, mainly diet and lifestyle factors, that have the ability to influence genetic effects for increased longevity. The following types of studies on diet and lifestyle factors for increasing longevity and decreasing the incidence of chronic conditions were reviewed: Prospective cohorts, longitudinal, in vitro, randomized controlled trials, and prospective case-controlled studies. Results related to the Mediterranean Diet were consistent in the conclusion that adherence to this diet increased the lifespan and delayed the development of chronic conditions although calorie restriction demonstrated an increase in longevity, the studies examined failed to correlate this diet to the reduced incidence of disease development. Red meat and alcohol consumption, though both are considered carcinogenic, demonstrated some benefits to the elderly. However, both need to be consumed with caution as they may negatively impact health when consumed outside of moderation. Physical activity demonstrated a consistent benefit to the elderly by increasing longevity and decreasing age-related conditions. Epigenetic research consistently concluded that a diet high in antioxidants and healthy fats both increase telomere length and decrease DNA damage though the exact mechanism remains unknown. Studies on the impact of regular social interactions and time spent on leisure activities in advanced age are consistent in the conclusion that both contribute to health and well-being in this demographic group, but failed to connect to an increase in longevity.

Thesis (M.A.)--Georgia State University, 2007. / Title from file title page. Heying Jenny Zhan, committee chair; Frank J. Whittington, Yong Tai Wang, committee members. Electronic text (67 p. : col. ill.) : digital, PDF file. Description based on contents viewed Nov. 7, 2007. Includes bibliographical references (p. 61-67).

Thesis (M.A.)--Georgia State University, 2008. / Title from file title page. Frank J. Whittington, committee chair; Elisabeth O. Burgess, Toshi Kii, committee members. Electronic text (189 p. : col. ill.) : digital, PDF file. Description based on contents viewed Sept. 17, 2008. Includes bibliographical references (p. 177-180).

Thesis (doctoral)--Göteborg University, 2005. / Abstract inserted. Includes bibliographical references.

Thesis (doctoral)--Göteborg University, 2005. / Abstract inserted. Includes bibliographical references.

Thesis (M.S.)--University of North Carolina at Greensboro, 2007. / Title from PDF title page screen. Advisor: Olav Rueppell; submitted to the Dept. of Biology. Includes bibliographical references (p. 42-48).

Thesis (M.S.P.H.)--University of Michigan, 1935.

Thesis (M.S.P.H.)--University of Michigan, 1935.

The modern American superintendency faces many challenges, including a national concern that there is a demonstrated shortage of qualified school superintendents in the United States. Reported superintendent tenure ranges from 2.5-4.8 years. Various research and anecdotal data identify and illustrate the complex factors influencing superintendent tenure, and in turn, organizational stability and student achievement. In Texas, superintendents identify strained relationships with the school board president, superintendent/school board communication and relations, and the inability to accomplish goals with the board as significant factors in their length of tenure. Superintendent success in creating and sustaining effective working relationships with his or her boards of trustees and various stakeholder groups is predictive of his or her longevity. Superintendents must successfully navigate interactions with their boards of trustees, as well as internal and external special interest groups, and the greater voting community. Studies abound, regarding causal factors in truncated superintendent tenure, as well as the intrinsic challenges of effectively managing the myriad functions of the superintendency. Those studies primarily focus on interactions with the school board, or describe failed superintendencies from a postmortem perspective. However, the research literature lacks qualitative studies that focus attention on successful superintendent leadership strategies, which have contributed to increased superintendent tenure, and have resulted in increased organizational stability and higher levels of student achievement. / text

No description available.