bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Racialized Incorporation: The Effects of Race and Generational Status on Self-Employment and Industry-Sector Prestige in the United States
Authors: Chaudhary Ali R.
Published: April 2014

This study examines how race and generational status shape self-employment propensities and industry-sector prestige among the self-employed in the U.S. It draws on theories of assimilation, racialization, and a combined framework, racialized incorporation, to guide the analysis and interpret the results. It uses data from the U.S. March Current Population Survey (2000–2010) offering the first nationally representative examination of second-generation self-employment in the U.S. This study investigates three questions. First, do the odds of being self-employed decline in the second and third generations? Second, do generational patterns in self-employment propensities vary by race? And finally, do race and generational status affect the odds of being self-employed in low-, medium-, and high-prestige industry sectors? Results offer some support for the assimilation perspective: Immigrants are generally more likely than third-generation groups to be self-employed with the exception of Asians, where second-generation Asians have the greatest odds of being self-employed. However, results also reveal that generational patterns in self-employment propensities vary by race and industry-sector prestige. Accordingly, first- and second-generation whites have the greatest odds of being self-employed (across all levels of industry-sector prestige), and third-generation whites are more likely than all generations of blacks and Hispanics to be engaged in high-prestige self-employment. These findings suggest that immigrants, their offspring, and native-born groups undergo a racialized incorporation in which self-employment is organized along hierarchical and racial lines associated with uneven levels of prestige.
Redrawing the Contours of the Nation-State in Uruguay? The Vicissitudes of Emigration Policy in the 2000s
Authors: Margheritis Ana
Published: April 2014

This study analyzes Uruguay's recently launched emigration policy. It argues that the redrawing of the boundaries of the nation-state along non-territorial basis is still an incipient and contested process. The findings highlight some relatively under-explored explanatory factors: emigrants’ profile; political junctures requiring immediate commitment; the impact of rhetorical changes and post-neoliberal projects; presidents as policy drivers and sources of inconsistencies; and institutional deficiencies, inertias, lack of reform, and society's conflictive notions of nation and belonging as brakes. The conclusions indicate that the sustainability of emigration policy is contingent on the state's progress toward internal reform and society's ability to acquire a greater voice and more organizational capacity. Exploring emigration policy characteristics and sources of setbacks in Uruguay unveils the inter-mestic character of state transnational outreach efforts, qualifies and refines existing explanations, expands our understanding of new governance techniques, and provides some insights into the requirements for emigration policies to work effectively.
Quinoa in Morocco – Effect of Sowing Dates on Development and Yield
Authors: Hirich A. , Choukr‐Allah R. , Jacobsen S.‐E.
Published: April 2014

Quinoa is a highly nutritious food product, being cultivated for several thousand years in South America, and it is recently introduced in Morocco and showed a high potential of adaptation in Morocco. A field study was carried out in the south of Morocco in order to investigate the effects of sowing date on quinoa performance in a series of experiments conducted for adaptation of quinoa. The experiment took place in Agadir, with a test of 10 sowing dates, each 15 days from 1st November to 15th March. Sowing dates affected the growth and productivity due to differences in temperature, precipitation and radiation over the year. Highest seed yield and dry matter yield were obtained when quinoa sown in November and early December. The growing season length has been affected by accumulated radiation. In addition to abiotic factors (temperature, radiation, rainfall) affecting quinoa growth, biotic factors such as downy mildew and weeds affected the yield. Early sowing in November to early December secured good plant development when low temperatures occurred in January and February and downy mildew appeared in March.
Saline Water Irrigation of Quinoa and Chickpea: Seedling Rate, Stomatal Conductance and Yield Responses
Authors: Hirich A. , Jelloul A. , Choukr‐Allah R. , Jacobsen S.‐E.
Published: April 2014

A pot experiment was conducted in the south of Morocco to evaluate the response of chickpea and quinoa to different irrigation water salinity treatments (1, 4, 7 and 10dSm−1for chickpea and 1, 10, 20 and 30 dS m−1for quinoa). Increasing salinity affected significantly (P < 0.05) seedling rate and height and caused delay and reduction in seed emergence, quinoa was shown to be more resistant than chickpea. Dry biomass, seed yield, harvest index and crop water productivity were affected significantly (P < 0.05) by salinity where increasing salinity level led to decrease in dry biomass, root volume and seed yield for both quinoa and chickpea while increasing salinity resulted in increase – in the case of quinoa – and decrease – in the case of chickpea – in harvest index and crop water productivity. Na+and Na+/K+ratio increased with increasing irrigation water salinity, while K+content decreased – in the case of quinoa – and increased – in the case of chickpea – with increasing salinity. Through this study, it was demonstrated that the salinity threshold in which seedling starts to be affected by salinity was equal to 2 and 8 dS m−1for chickpea and quinoa, respectively. Quinoa was shown to be more resistant to salinity of all investigated parameters.
Rights Offerings and Expropriation by Controlling Shareholders
Authors: Fong Wai‐Ming , Lam Kevin C.K.
Published: April 2014

We investigate rights issues and open offers in Hong Kong. We observe that the greater the severity of firms’ management‐agency problems, the more unfavourably shareholders tend to react, leading to more negative cumulative abnormal returns or rights forfeiture. Controlling shareholders do not forfeit rights, and may increase their percentage ownership at deep price discounts by underwriting rights offerings. Our results suggest that, although certain rights offerings can be described as value‐enhancing, many other rights offerings closely resemble the expropriation activities of controlling shareholders.
Earnings Quality Measures and Excess Returns
Authors: Perotti Pietro , Wagenhofer Alfred
Published: April 2014

This paper examines how commonly used earnings quality measures fulfill a key objective of financial reporting, i.e., improving decision usefulness for investors. We propose a stock‐price‐based measure for assessing the quality of earnings quality measures. We predict that firms with higher earnings quality will be less mispriced than other firms. Mispricing is measured by the difference of the mean absolute excess returns of portfolios formed on high and low values of a measure. We examine persistence, predictability, two measures of smoothness, abnormal accruals, accruals quality, earnings response coefficient and value relevance. For a large sample of US non‐financial firms over the period 1988–2007, we show that all measures except for smoothness are negatively associated with absolute excess returns, suggesting that smoothness is generally a favorable attribute of earnings. Accruals measures generate the largest spread in absolute excess returns, followed by smoothness and market‐based measures. These results lend support to the widespread use of accruals measures as overall measures of earnings quality in the literature.
The Relationship Between Strategic Supply Chain Integration and Performance: A Meta‐Analytic Evaluation and Implications for Supply Chain Management Research
Authors: Mackelprang Alan W. , Robinson Jessica L. , Bernardes Ednilson , Webb G. Scott
Published: April 2014

Although research evaluating the impact of supply chain integration on performance has advanced substantially in the last decade, inconsistency and considerable variability of empirical findings leave unanswered questions for both research and practice. Using a meta‐analysis, we examine empirical studies to clarify the actual relationship, suggest new directions, and ultimately contribute toward the development of supply chain management theory. We focus on “strategic” supply chain integration rather than on functional or operational/tactical studies, which would weaken the practical value of the analysis and findings. To ascertain focus and homogeneity of the sample, we adopt a rigorous search protocol and sample construction. We find that integration–performance relationships are complex and nuanced such that integration should not be universally viewed as improving performance. We identify relationships that are more generalizable and also those that need additional scrutiny. Finally, we discuss the implications of our findings and provide directions for future research.
Relational and Process Multiplexity in Vertical Supply Chain Triads: An Exploration in the U.S. Restaurant Industry
Authors: Autry Chad W. , Williams Brent D. , Golicic Susan
Published: April 2014

Both supply chain relationships and process connections between organizational units have been studied in business research, to enhance the understanding of supply chain integration, and to explore the differential outcomes of both types of connections for business and functional performance. However, the extant research remains deficient in two ways: within individual studies, researchers have operationalized supply chain connectivity unidimensionally, with the concept of connectivity constrained to either social relations or operational/process ties while disregarding the other viewpoint. Additionally, researchers have persistently designed studies to evaluate dyadic structures, while foregoing the larger, more intricate structures representative of complex supply chains. We address these issues by modeling supply chain connectivity as having multiple relational‐ and process‐based threads comprising linkages, and by empirically testing a set of theorized relationships describing vertical triadic supply chain networks (manufacturer, broker, retailer) within the U.S. restaurant industry. We find that increased supply chain connectivity improves chain performance, but this improvement is more directly attributable to process‐based linkages than relational linkages, which impact performance only through the process mediator variable, suggesting that current theories of interorganizational relationalism may lack complete conceptualization. Implications of these findings for managers and the academy are highlighted, and areas of follow‐on research are discussed.
Mind the Gaps: Exploring How Value‐Creation Perceptions Across the Internal Triad Influence Identity and Impact
Authors: Van Hoek Remko , Mena Carlos , Gattorna John
Published: April 2014

New value‐creation opportunities mean the future of supply chain management (SCM) is bright. Growing C‐suite sponsorship for supply chain contributions to enterprise value creation is a positive factor for the future of the discipline. However, rising C‐suite requests mean that supply chain professionals must manage an internal triad of relationships: horizontally with peer functions and vertically with C‐level executives. How well supply chain professionals manage this triad will determine SCM's future role in strategic initiatives. We use procurement to exemplify the opportunities and challenges that confront a maturing supply chain discipline. Focus studies conducted with procurement managers and peer functional managers combined with C‐suite interviews reveal: (1) great opportunities for cementing SCM's value‐creation role; and (2) existing gaps hinder identity construction and professional contribution.
Supply Chain Management at the Crossroads: Divergent Views, Potential Impacts, and Suggested Paths Forward
Authors: Petersen Kenneth J. , Autry Chad W.
Published: April 2014

The academic field of supply chain management (SCM) is comprised of scholars holding four different worldviews based on their academic heritages. This situation presents both threats and opportunities for SCM scholarship and practice. In this brief paper, we explain why we see this occurring, and actions that academics might take in order to form a more cohesive and effective SCM discipline.
The Supply Chain Becomes the Demand Chain
Authors: Christopher Martin , Ryals Lynette J.
Published: April 2014

For most of its 30‐year history, the description of our discipline as “supply chain management” has tended to encourage a supply‐focused viewpoint in which production push rather than demand pull is the dominant logic. We argue the emerging case for demand chain management, in which new manufacturing techniques (such as additive manufacturing) and enhanced information flows (big data) enable our supply chains to run, concurrently, with lower inventory and fast customer response. Remodeling our supply chains into demand chains creates the possibility that waste and obsolescence can be reduced; companies in this world will not create demand unless they can supply it. Increasingly, demand chains that exhibit both lean and agile characteristics (“leagile”) will challenge the received wisdom of lean versus agile. We explore some antecedents for the development of demand chains, the implications for the relationship between marketing and supply chain management in organizations, and the consequences for academic discourse—both research and teaching—in these two fields. In particular, we argue that offerings such as Rolls‐Royce's TotalCare® challenge siloed academic perspectives, and we formulate a cross‐functional research agenda to examine a number of these boundary‐spanning practices.
Logistics Professional Identity: Strengthening the Discipline as Galaxies Collide
Authors: Zinn Walter , Goldsby Thomas J.
Published: April 2014

The merger of logistics, operations, supply management, and related disciplines into the broader field of supply chain management (SCM) has brought together academic fields with different professional identities and competing visions of what SCM ought to be, what students ought to be taught, and what the priorities for research and publication should be. This raises serious concerns because logistics faculty are less numerous than faculty in related fields. Logistics professional identity risks being diluted by the merger, resulting in potentially serious consequences for the future of logistics education and research. This paper explores these issues and offers suggestions to preserve logistics' professional identity, education and research in a supply chain world. We propose that logisticians expand the journals where they publish logistics research, continuing support for strengthening the Journal of Business Logistics as the “A” journal in logistics, rethink the way we train doctoral students, and work to preserve our community both inside and outside business schools.
A Trail Guide to Publishing Success: Tips on Writing Influential Conceptual, Qualitative, and Survey Research
Authors: Fawcett Stanley E. , Waller Matthew A. , Miller Jason W. , Schwieterman Matthew A. , Hazen Benjamin T. , Overstreet Robert E.
Published: April 2014

Publishing in top journals is difficult. Common challenges undermine authors' attempts to explain and influence their discipline's understanding and practice. We identify and describe these roadblocks to publishing success. We also benchmark best practice in management, marketing, and supply chain journals to provide a trail guide for writing—and publishing—influential conceptual, qualitative, and survey research. Given equifinality in research, our trail guide should not be viewed as the only way to craft excellent, influential research. However, if we agree on the basics, we can (1) increase consistency in the review process, (2) reduce publication cycles, and (3) begin to roll back the length of articles.
Can We Stay Ahead of the Obsolescence Curve? On Inflection Points, Proactive Preemption, and the Future of Supply Chain Management
Authors: Fawcett Stanley E. , Waller Matthew A.
Published: April 2014

Great companies—like great products and great nations—have always endured a four‐stage life cycle: emergence, growth, maturity, and decline. Faster clockspeeds—enabled by compressed technology cycles and accelerated by new knowledge‐sharing routines such as crowdsourcing—are shrinking life cycles. What does this mean? Entities of all kinds now find themselves in a constant race against obsolescence. We thus ask a vital question,”Can we (as a discipline) stay ahead of the obsolescence curve?” Technological and sociological inflection points promise to change the rules of engagement. For instance, 3D printing, Big Data, and drones promise to change management practice. Budget deficits, poor skill improvement, and MOOCs promise to change academe. We discuss adaptation challenges and proactive preemption as preludes to presenting various visions of the future of supply chain management.
The effect of maternal and paternal immune challenge on offspring immunity and reproduction in a cricket
Authors: McNamara K. B. , van Lieshout E. , Simmons L. W.
Published: April 2014

Trans‐generational immune priming is the transmission of enhanced immunity to offspring following a parental immune challenge. Although within‐generation increased investment into immunity demonstrates clear costs on reproductive investment in a number of taxa, the potential for immune priming to impact on offspring reproductive investment has not been thoroughly investigated. We explored the reproductive costs of immune priming in a field cricket, Teleogryllus oceanicus. To assess the relative importance of maternal and paternal immune status, mothers and fathers were immune‐challenged with live bacteria or a control solution and assigned to one of four treatments in which one parent, neither or both parents were immune‐challenged. Families of offspring were reared to adulthood under a food‐restricted diet, and approximately 10 offspring in each family were assayed for two measures of immunocompetence. We additionally quantified offspring reproductive investment using sperm viability for males and ovary mass for females. We demonstrate that parental immune challenge has significant consequences for the immunocompetence and, in turn, reproductive investment of their male offspring. A complex interaction between maternal and paternal immune status increased the antibacterial immune response of male offspring. This increased immune response was associated with a reduction in son's sperm viability, implicating a trans‐generational resource trade‐off between investment into immunocompetence and reproduction. Our data also show that these costs are sexually dimorphic, as daughters did not demonstrate a similar increase in immunity, despite showing a reduction in ovary mass.
Evidence of trade‐offs shaping virulence evolution in an emerging wildlife pathogen
Authors: Williams P. D. , Dobson A. P. , Dhondt K. V. , Hawley D. M. , Dhondt A. A.
Published: April 2014

In the mid‐1990s, the common poultry pathogen Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) made a successful species jump to the eastern North American house finch Haemorhous mexicanus (HM). Subsequent strain diversification allows us to directly quantify, in an experimental setting, the transmission dynamics of three sequentially emergent geographic isolates of MG, which differ in the levels of pathogen load they induce. We find significant among‐strain variation in rates of transmission as well as recovery. Pathogen strains also differ in their induction of host morbidity, measured as the severity of eye lesions due to infection. Relationships between pathogen traits are also investigated, with transmission and recovery rates being significantly negatively correlated, whereas transmission and virulence, measured as average eye lesion score over the course of infection, are positively correlated. By quantifying these disease‐relevant parameters and their relationships, we provide the first analysis of the trade‐offs that shape the evolution of this important emerging pathogen.
Constraints imposed by pollinator behaviour on the ecology and evolution of plant mating systems
Authors: Devaux C. , Lepers C. , Porcher E.
Published: April 2014

Most flowering plants rely on pollinators for their reproduction. Plant‐pollinator interactions, although mutualistic, involve an inherent conflict of interest between both partners and may constrain plant mating systems at multiple levels: the immediate ecological plant selfing rates, their distribution in and contribution to pollination networks, and their evolution. Here, we review experimental evidence that pollinator behaviour influences plant selfing rates in pairs of interacting species, and that plants can modify pollinator behaviour through plastic and evolutionary changes in floral traits. We also examine how theoretical studies include pollinators, implicitly or explicitly, to investigate the role of their foraging behaviour in plant mating system evolution. In doing so, we call for more evolutionary models combining ecological and genetic factors, and additional experimental data, particularly to describe pollinator foraging behaviour. Finally, we show that recent developments in ecological network theory help clarify the impact of community‐level interactions on plant selfing rates and their evolution and suggest new research avenues to expand the study of mating systems of animal‐pollinated plant species to the level of the plant‐pollinator networks.
Darwin's finches and their diet niches: the sympatric coexistence of imperfect generalists
Authors: De León L. F. , Podos J. , Gardezi T. , Herrel A. , Hendry A. P.
Published: April 2014

Adaptive radiation can be strongly influenced by interspecific competition for resources, which can lead to diverse outcomes ranging from competitive exclusion to character displacement. In each case, sympatric species are expected to evolve into distinct ecological niches, such as different food types, yet this expectation is not always met when such species are examined in nature. The most common hypotheses to account for the coexistence of species with substantial diet overlap rest on temporal variation in niches (often diets). Yet spatial variation in niche overlap might also be important, pointing to the need for spatiotemporal analyses of diet and diet overlap between closely related species persisting in sympatry. We here perform such an analysis by characterizing the diets of, and diet overlap among, four sympatric Darwin's ground finch species at three sites and over 5 years on a single Galápagos island (Santa Cruz). We find that the different species have broadly similar and overlapping diets – they are to some extent generalists and opportunists – yet we also find that each species retains some ‘private’ resources for which their morphologies are best suited. Importantly, use of these private resources increased considerably, and diet overlap decreased accordingly, when the availability of preferred shared foods, such as arthropods, was reduced during drought conditions. Spatial variation in food resources was also important. These results together suggest that the ground finches are ‘imperfect generalists’ that use overlapping resources under benign conditions (in space or time), but then retreat to resources for which they are best adapted during periods of food limitation. These conditions likely promote local and regional coexistence.
Generative models versus underlying symmetries to explain biological pattern
Authors: Frank S. A.
Published: April 2014

Mathematical models play an increasingly important role in the interpretation of biological experiments. Studies often present a model that generates the observations, connecting hypothesized process to an observed pattern. Such generative models confirm the plausibility of an explanation and make testable hypotheses for further experiments. However, studies rarely consider the broad family of alternative models that match the same observed pattern. The symmetries that define the broad class of matching models are in fact the only aspects of information truly revealed by observed pattern. Commonly observed patterns derive from simple underlying symmetries. This article illustrates the problem by showing the symmetry associated with the observed rate of increase in fitness in a constant environment. That underlying symmetry reveals how each particular generative model defines a single example within the broad class of matching models. Further progress on the relation between pattern and process requires deeper consideration of the underlying symmetries.
A Standardized, Bundled Approach to Providing Geriatric‐Focused Acute Care
Authors: Mattison Melissa L. P. , Catic Angela , Davis Roger B. , Olveczky Daniele , Moran Julie , Yang Julius , Aronson Mark , Zeidel Mark , Lipsitz Lewis , Marcantonio Edward R.
Published: April 2014

Objectives

To determine whether a bundled intervention can increase detection of delirium and facilitate safer use of high‐risk medications.

Design

Pre‐post interventional trial.

Setting

Large academic medical center.

Participants

Individuals aged 70 and older (n = 19,949) admitted between May 1, 2008, September 30, 2011. Individuals aged 80 and older admitted after April 26, 2010, received the intervention, those aged 80 and older admitted before were primary controls, and those aged 70 to 79 were concurrent controls.

Intervention

The intervention uses a checklist promoting delirium prevention, recognition and management, and modifies the computerized provider order entry system to provide care focused on elderly adults.

Measurements

Frequency of orders for activating the rapid response team for altered mental status, frequency of orders for haloperidol in excess of 0.5 mg or intravenous (IV) morphine in excess of 2 mg, and discharge disposition.

Results

Participants receiving the intervention had a mean age of 86.1 ± 4.6; 58.2% were female. The number of orders to activate the rapid response team for altered mental status increased in participants receiving the bundle and in controls (odds ratio (OR) for the difference of differences = 1.23 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.68–2.24, P = .49)). Participants receiving the bundle were less likely to receive more than 0.5 mg of IV, intramuscular, or oral haloperidol (OR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.39–0.91, P = .02) and more than 2 mg of IV morphine (OR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.42–0.63, P < .001). Participants who received the bundle were more likely to be discharged home than to extended care facilities (OR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.04–1.35, P = .01).

Conclusion

An intervention focused on delirium prevention and recognition by bedside staff combined with computerized decision support facilitates safer prescribing of high‐risk medications and possibly results in less need for extended care.
Licensed Nurse Staffing and Health Service Availability in Residential Care and Assisted Living
Authors: Beeber Anna S. , Zimmerman Sheryl , Reed David , Mitchell C. Madeline , Sloane Philip D. , Harris‐Wallace Brandy , Perez Rosa , Schumacher John G.
Published: April 2014

Objectives

To create data‐driven typologies of licensed nurse staffing and health services in residential care and assisted living (RC/AL).

Design

Cluster analysis was used to describe the patterns of licensed nurse staffing and 47 services and the extent to which these clusters were related.

Setting

RC/AL communities in the United States.

Participants

A convenience sample of administrators and healthcare supervisors from 89 RC/AL communities in 22 states.

Measurement

RC/AL characteristics, licensed nurse staffing (total number of hours that registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) worked), number of hours that contract nurses worked, and availability of 47 services.

Results

Analysis revealed four licensed nurse staffing clusters defined according to total number of hours and the type of nurse providing the hours (RN, LPN, or a mix of both). They ranged from no or minimal RN and LPN hours to high nursing hours with a mix of RNs and LPNs. The 47 services clustered into five clusters: basic services; technically complex services; assessments, wound care, and therapies; testing and specialty services; and gastrostomy and intravenous medications. The availability of services was related to the presence of nurses (RNs and LPNs) except for the gastrostomy and intravenous medication services, which were not readily available.

Conclusion

The amount and skill mix of licensed nurse staffing varies in RC/AL and is related to the types of services available. These findings may have implications for resident care and outcomes. Future work in this area, including extension to include nonnurse direct care workers, is needed.
Effect of Health Protective Factors on Health Deficit Accumulation and Mortality Risk in Older Adults in the Beijing Longitudinal Study of Aging
Authors: Wang Chunxiu , Song Xiaowei , Mitnitski Arnold , Fang Xianghua , Tang Zhe , Yu Pulin , Rockwood Kenneth
Published: April 2014

Objectives

To evaluate transitions in health status and risk of death in older adults in relation to baseline health deficits and protective factors.

Design

Prospective cohort study with reassessments at 5, 8, and 15 years.

Setting

Secondary analysis of data from the Beijing Longitudinal Study on Aging.

Participants

Urban and rural community‐dwelling people aged 55 and older at baseline (n = 3,275), followed from 1992 to 2007, during which time 51% died.

Measurements

Health status was quantified using the deficit accumulation–based frailty index (FI), constructed from 30 intrinsic health measures. A protection index was constructed using 14 extrinsic items (e.g., exercise, education). The probabilities of health changes, including death, were evaluated using a multistate transition model.

Results

Women had more health deficits (mean baseline FI 0.13 ± 0.11) than did men (mean baseline FI 0.11 ± 0.10). Although health declined on average (mean FIs increased), improvement and stability were common. Baseline health significantly affected health transitions and survival over various follow‐up durations (odds ratio (OR) = 1.27, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.17–1.37 for men; OR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.16–1.33 for women for each increment of deficits). Each protective factor reduced the risk of health decline and the risk of death in men and women by 13% to 25%.

Conclusion

Deficit accumulation–based transition modeling demonstrates persisting effects of baseline health status on age‐related health outcomes. Some mitigation by protective factors can be demonstrated, suggesting that improving physical and social conditions might be beneficial.
American Geriatrics Society/Association of Directors of Geriatric Academic Programs Curricular Milestones for Graduating Geriatric Fellows
Authors: Parks Susan M. , Harper G. Michael , Fernandez Helen , Sauvigne Karen , Leipzig Rosanne M.
Published: April 2014

This article describes the curricular milestones for geriatric fellows and the process used to develop them. The curricular milestones were developed to determine what every graduating geriatric fellow should be able to demonstrate to ensure that they will be able to practice effectively and safely in all care settings and with different older adult populations. Three major domains were identified: Caring for the Elderly Patient, Systems‐Based Care for Elder Patients, and Geriatric Syndromes. Six hundred thirty‐five geriatricians each reviewed and commented on one domain. These geriatricians represented important stakeholder groups: geriatric fellowship program directors; Association of Directors of Geriatric Academic Programs (ADGAP) members, who are primarily geriatric program and fellowship directors; the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) and ADGAP Education Committee; the AGS Teacher's Section; Geriatric Academic Career Award awardees; and through the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Family Medicine, board‐certified geriatricians who spend more than 50% of their time in clinical practice. The AGS and ADGAP boards approved the final set of 76 Geriatric Curricular Milestones, which were posted on the Portal of Geriatric Online Education in December 2012. These curricular milestones are intended to assist geriatric fellowship directors as they develop curricula and assessments to inform program director reporting to the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education in the Next Accreditation System, which begins in July 2014.
Cardiovascular risk and lifestyle habits of consumers of a phytosterol‐enriched yogurt in a real‐life setting
Authors: Paillard F. , Bruckert E. , Naelten G. , Picard P. , van Ganse E.
Published: April 2014

Background

Data on the characteristics of consumers of phytosterol‐enriched products and modalities of consumption are rare. An observational study evaluating the lifestyle characteristics and cardiovascular risk (CVR) profile of phytosterol‐enriched yogurt consumers was performed in France.

Methods

Subjects were recruited from general practitioners via electronic medical records. Data were obtained from 358 consumers and 422 nonconsumers with 519 subject questionnaires (243 consumers, 276 nonconsumers; 67% response).

Results

Consumers had more cardiovascular risk factors than nonconsumers (2.0 ± 1.5 versus 1.6 ± 1.4; P < 0.001) and a higher 10‐year SCORE cardiovascular risk (1.8 ± 2.0% versus 1.6 ± 2.2%; P = 0.008); they were older (P = 0.030) and had a higher incidence of hypercholesterolaemia (P < 0.001) and family or personal history of heart disease (P = 0.023/P = 0.026, respectively). Among consumers not on cholesterol‐lowering medication, 99% were eligible for lifestyle interventions and 56% were eligible for lipid‐lowering drug according to European guidelines. Consumers had a healthier lifestyle, with a higher (fruit/vegetable – saturated fatty acid) score than nonconsumers (P = 0.035), focused more on low‐intensity leisure activity (P = 0.023), spent more time travelling by foot or bicycle (P = 0.012) and were more likely to act to reduce CVR. Phytosterol‐enriched yogurt intake conformed to recommendations in two‐thirds of consumers and was mainly consumed because of concerns over cholesterol levels and CVR.

Conclusions

The higher cardiovascular disease risk profile of phytosterol‐enriched yogurt consumers corresponds to a population for whom European guidelines recommend lifestyle changes to manage cholesterol. The coherence of the data in terms of risk factors, adherence to lifestyle recommendations and the consumption of phytosterol‐enriched yogurt conforming to recommendations reflects a health‐conscious consumer population.
A Financial and Environmental Analysis of Constructed Wetlands for Industrial Wastewater Treatment
Authors: DiMuro Johnathan L. , Guertin France M. , Helling Rich K. , Perkins Jessica L. , Romer Scanlon
Published: April 2014

The Dow Chemical Co. (Dow) is actively working to develop an approach to value ecosystem services and incorporate them in business decisions. This study investigates the use of replacement cost methodology (RCM) for financial analysis and life cycle assessment (LCA) for environmental assessment. The case study analyzes a business decision made in 1995, where a constructed wetland was built instead of a sequencing batch reactor to solve a regulatory compliance issue in meeting suspended solids requirements for a wastewater treatment system at the Union Carbide Corp. (a subsidiary of The Dow Chemical Co.) plant in Seadrift, Texas. The financial results indicate that the total net present value savings calculated for implementing the constructed wetland instead of the sequencing batch reactor is $282 million over the project's lifetime. The LCA demonstrates that the lower energy and material inputs to the constructed wetland resulted in lower potential impacts for fossil fuel use, acidification, smog formation, and ozone depletion and likely lead to lower potential impacts for global warming and marine eutrophication. The result from the inventory of land use shows that both the upstream land burdens (for the sequencing batch reactor) and the on‐site acreage of the constructed wetland are similar in magnitude and importance, contrary to the assumption that green infrastructure always requires greater land area. This case study illustrates how Dow can consider financial and environmental analyses in comparing gray and green infrastructure solutions and further understand the benefits of implementing green infrastructure in an appropriate industrial application.
The protein interacting with C‐kinase (PICK1) interacts with and attenuates parkin‐associated endothelial‐like (PAEL) receptor‐mediated cell death
Authors: Dutta Priyanka , O'Connell Kara E. , Ozkan Sefika B. , Sailer Andreas W. , Dev Kumlesh K.
Published: April 2014

The parkin‐associated endothelial‐like receptor (PAELR, GPR37) is an orphan G protein‐coupled receptor that interacts with and is degraded by parkin‐mediated ubiquitination. Mutations in parkin are thought to result in PAELR accumulation and increase neuronal cell death in Parkinson's disease. In this study, we find that the protein interacting with C‐kinase (PICK1) interacts with PAELR. Specifically, the Postsynaptic density protein‐95/Discs large/ZO‐1 (PDZ) domain of PICK1 interacted with the last three residues of the c‐terminal (ct) located PDZ motif of PAELR. Pull‐down assays indicated that recombinant and native PICK1, obtained from heterologous cells and rat brain tissue, respectively, were retained by a glutathione S‐transferase fusion of ct‐PAELR. Furthermore, coimmunoprecipitation studies isolated a PAELR‐PICK1 complex from transiently transfected cells. PICK1 interacts with parkin and our data showed that PICK1 reduces PAELR expression levels in transiently transfected heterologous cells compared to a PICK1 mutant that does not interact with PAELR. Finally, PICK1 over‐expression in HEK293 cells reduced cell death induced by PAEALR over‐expression during rotenone treatment and these effects of PICK1 were attenuated during inhibition of the proteasome. These results suggest a role for PICK1 in preventing PAELR‐induced cell toxicity.

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Parkin mutations lead to parkin‐associated endothelial‐like receptor (PAELR) aggregation resulting in reduced neuronal cell viability. We find protein interacting c‐kinase interacts with PAELR, regulating its expression and cell viability. The study adds to the repertoire of protein interacting c‐kinase (PICK1) interacting proteins, such as dopamine transporter and parkin, which have been shown to play roles in dopaminergic neuronal function.
The Endocannabinoid System and the Neuroendocrine Control of Hydromineral Balance
Authors: Ruginsk S. G. , Vechiato F. M. V. , Elias L. L. K. , Antunes‐Rodrigues J.
Published: April 2014

Endocannabinoids (ECBs) are ubiquitous lipophilic agents, and this characteristic is consistent with the wide range of homeostatic functions attributed to the ECB system. There is an increasing number of studies showing that the ECB system affects neurotransmission within the hypothalamic neurohypophyseal system. We provide an overview of the primary roles of ECBs in the modulation of neuroendocrine function and, specifically, in the control of hydromineral homeostasis. Accordingly, the general aspects of ECB‐mediated signalling, as well as the specific contributions of the central component of the ECB system to the integration of behavioural and endocrine responses that control body fluid homeostasis, are discussed.
Effects of Chronic Oestradiol, Progesterone and Medroxyprogesterone Acetate on Hippocampal Neurogenesis and Adrenal Mass in Adult Female Rats
Authors: Chan M. , Chow C. , Hamson D. K. , Lieblich S. E. , Galea L. A. M.
Published: April 2014

Both natural oestrogens and progesterone influence synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis within the female hippocampus. However, less is known of the impact of synthetic hormones on hippocampal structure and function. There is some evidence that the administration of the synthetic progestin, medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) is not as beneficial as natural progesterone and can attenuate oestrogen‐induced neuroprotection. Although the effects of oestradiol have been well studied, little is known about the effects of natural and synthetic progestins alone and in combination with oestradiol on adult neurogenesis in females. In the present study, we investigated the effects of chronic oestradiol, progesterone, MPA and the co‐administration of each progestin with oestradiol on neurogenesis within the dentate gyrus of adult ovariectomised female rats. Twenty‐four hours after a bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU; 200 mg/kg) injection, female rats were repeatedly administered either progesterone (1 or 4 mg), MPA (1 or 4 mg), oestradiol benzoate (EB), progesterone or MPA in combination with EB (10 μg), or vehicle for 21 days. Rats were perfused on day 22 and brain tissue was analysed for the number of BrdU‐labelled and Ki67 (an endogenous marker of cell proliferation)‐expressing cells. EB alone and MPA + EB significantly decreased neurogenesis and the number of surviving BrdU‐labelled cells in the dorsal region of the dentate gyrus, independent of any effects on cell proliferation. Furthermore, MPA (1 and 4 mg) and MPA + EB treated animals had significantly lower adrenal/body mass ratios and reduced serum corticosterone (CORT) levels. By contrast, progesterone + EB treated animals had significantly higher adrenal/body mass ratios and 1 mg of progesterone, progesterone + EB, and EB significantly increased CORT levels. The results of the present study demonstrate that different progestins alone and in combination with oestradiol can differentially affect neurogenesis (via cell survival) and regulation of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis. These findings have implications for women using hormone replacement therapies with MPA for both neuroprotection and stress‐related disorders.
Tyrosine Hydroxylase in the Olfactory System, Forebrain and Pituitary of the Indian Major Carp, Cirrhinus cirrhosus: Organisation and Interaction with Neuropeptide Y in the Preoptic Area
Authors: Kumar S. , Singh U. , Saha S. , Singru P. S.
Published: April 2014

Dopamine (DA) inhibits, whereas gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulates, luteinisiing (LH) cells in the pituitary of some but not all teleosts. A reduction in the hypophysiotropic dopaminergic tone is necessary for the stimulatory effect of GnRH on LH cells. Neuropeptide Y (NPY) has emerged as one of the potent, endogenous agent that modulates LH secretion directly or indirectly via GnRH. Involvement of NPY in the regulation of hypophysiotropic DA neurones, however, is not known, but there is good evidence suggesting an interaction in the mammalian hypothalamus. DA neurones, identified by tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)‐immunoreactivity, were observed widely throughout the brain of the Indian major carp, Cirrhinus cirrhosus. The granule cells and ganglion cells of terminal nerve in the olfactory bulb, and cells in ventral telencephalon and preoptic area (POA) showed conspicuous TH immunoreactivity. In the POA, the nucleus preopticus periventricularis (NPP), divisible into anterior (NPPa) and posterior (NPPp) components, showed prominent TH‐immunoreactivity. The majority of TH neurones in NPPa showed axonal extensions to the pituitary and were closely associated with LH cells. The NPPa also appeared to be the site for intense interaction between NPY and DA because it contains a rich network of NPY fibres and few immunoreactive cells. Approximately 89.7 ± 1.5% TH neurones in NPPa were contacted by NPY fibres. Superfused POA slices treated with a NPY Y2‐receptor agonist, NPY 13‐36 resulted in a significant (P < 0.001) reduction in TH‐immunoreactivity in NPPa. TH neurones in NPPa did not respond to NPY Y1‐receptor agonist, [Leu31, Pro34] Neuropeptide Y treatment. We suggest that, by inhibiting DAergic neurones in NPPa via Y2‐receptors, NPY may contribute to the up‐regulation of the GnRH–LH cells axis. The microcircuitry of DA and NPY and their interaction in NPPa might be a crucial component in the central regulation of LH secretion in the teleosts.
Longitudinal assessment of short‐term memory deterioration in a logopenic variant primary progressive aphasia with post‐mortem confirmed Alzheimer's Disease pathology
Authors: Tree Jeremy , Kay Janice
Published: April 2014

In the field of dementia research, there are reports of neurodegenerative cases with a focal loss of language, termed primary progressive aphasia (PPA). Currently, this condition has been further sub‐classified, with the most recent sub‐type dubbed logopenic variant (PPA‐LV). As yet, there remains somewhat limited evaluation of the characteristics of this condition, with no studies providing longitudinal assessment accompanied by post‐mortem examination. Moreover, a key characteristic of the PPA‐LV case is a deterioration of phonological short‐term memory, but again little work has scrutinized the nature of this impairment over time. The current study seeks to redress these oversights and presents detailed longitudinal examination of language and memory function in a case of PPA‐LV, with special focus on tests linked to components of phonological short‐term memory function. Our findings are then considered with reference to a contemporary model of the neuropsychology of phonological short‐term memory. Additionally, post‐mortem examinations indicated Alzheimer's disease type pathology, providing further evidence that the PPA‐LV presentation may reflect an atypical presentation of this condition.
The mediating effect of psychological distress on functional dependence in stroke patients
Authors: Huang Hui‐Chuan , Huang Li‐Kai , Hu Chaur‐Jong , Chang Chien‐Hung , Lee Hsin‐Chien , Chi Nai‐Fang , Shyu Meei‐Ling , Chang Hsiu‐Ju
Published: April 2014

Aims and objectives

To explore varied forms of psychological distress and to determine the mediating influence of psychological distress on functional outcomes in stroke patients.

Background

Previous studies attest to the influence of depression on poststroke functional recovery. While there is evidence for neuropathological deficits that occur after stroke to be associated with psychological distress, few studies have explored the effect of various types of psychological distress on functional recovery.

Design

A cross‐sectional study was used.

Methods

Data were collected from 178 first‐time stroke patients. Study variables included demographic and disease characteristics (stroke location and stroke syndrome classification), psychological distress (the Chinese language version of the Emotional and Social Dysfunction Questionnaire) and functional outcome (Barthel index). Regression and mediation models were used to evaluate the effect of psychological distress on functional outcome.

Results

Results revealed that stroke patients experience various forms of mild psychological distress, including anger, helplessness, emotional dyscontrol, indifference, inertia and euphoria, after stroke. Regression and mediation analyses further confirmed that various forms of psychological distress significantly mediated the effect of severe stroke syndromes on functional dependence.

Conclusion

The various forms of psychological distress after stroke might play a mediating role in functional recovery and explain how stroke severity affects functional dependence.

Relevance to clinical practice

By understanding the nature of various forms of psychological distress, healthcare professionals should adopt appropriate assessment instruments and design effective interventions to help improve mental and physical function of stroke patients.