bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Antibodies against Salmonella is associated with reduced reproductive success in female alpine chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra)
Authors: Pioz Maryline , Loison Anne , Gibert Philippe , Jullien Jean-Michel , Artois Marc , Gilot-Fromont Emmanuelle 
Published: October 2008

Microbial infections that affect reproduction are poorly studied in wildlife because reproductive disorders usually go unnoticed. However, such infections are a major concern in domestic ungulates, which raises the question of their influence on reproductive success and population dynamics of wild ungulates. Three bacterial abortive infections are frequent in domestic ruminants: salmonellosis caused by Salmonella enterica serovar Abortusovis, enzootic abortion caused by Chlamydophila abortus , and Q fever caused by Coxiella burnetii . They induce abortions and neonatal mortality in sheep ( Ovis aries L., 1758), goat ( Capra hircus L., 1758), and cattle ( Bos taurus L., 1758). However, little information is known about these bacteria in wild ungulates, particularly in mountain ungulates that may share alpine pastures with infected domestic ruminants. We investigated the relationship between female serological status against Salmonella, Chlamydophila, and Coxiella and her reproductive success. From 1986 to 2003, the reproductive and serological statuses of 125 female chamois ( Rupicapra rupicapra (L., 1758)) aged 2–10 years were available. Reproductive success was the lowest for 2-year-old females and for females born at the highest density. Moreover, we showed for the first time in a wild ungulate population that females with high titer in antibodies against Salmonella experienced a decrease in their reproductive success. Titers in antibodies against Chlamydophila and Coxiella were not related to the reproductive success of female chamois.
Amphibian predation on larval mosquitoes
Authors: DuRant Sarah E. , Hopkins William A. 
Published: October 2008

Mosquitoes ( Culex pipiens L., 1758) are important vectors for diseases of both wildlife and humans. Understanding how natural factors influence mosquito abundance may provide insights into the ecology of various diseases, as well as solutions to controlling disease vectors. One of the natural factors regulating mosquito distributions and population sizes is predation. A poorly understood source of natural mosquito predation is amphibians. We determined the mosquito consumption capability of two amphibians, adult Red-spotted Newts ( Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens (Rafinesque, 1820)) and larval Mole Salamanders ( Ambystoma talpoideum (Holbrook, 1838)). We also compared mosquito consumption of eastern mosquitofish ( Gambusia holbrooki Girard, 1859), a known predator of mosquitoes, and A. talpoideum. Both salamander species were capable of consuming large numbers of mosquito larvae per day (least-square means ± 1 SE = 439 ± 20 and 316 ± 35 mosquitoes/day consumed by A. talpoideum and N. v. viridescens, respectively). In A. talpoideum, mosquito consumption scaled with body size, with the largest individual (4.4 g) ingesting 902 mosquitoes in 1 day. Gambusia holbrooki consumed 3.5× more mosquitoes during a 24 h feeding trial than similar-sized A. talpoideum. Our findings suggest that amphibians could have a substantial impact on mosquito larvae abundance, especially considering that amphibians can reach densities of up to 500 000 individuals/ha. Furthermore, we hypothesize that introduction of G. holbrooki could reduce abundances of native mosquito predators (e.g., salamanders) indirectly, through competition for invertebrate prey.
Ecological factors influencing the spatial pattern of Canada lynx relative to its southern range edge in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Bayne Erin M. , Boutin Stan , Moses Richard A. 
Published: October 2008

We examined the spatial pattern of Canada lynx ( Lynx canadensis Kerr, 1792) relative to its southern range edge at the boreal plains – prairie ecotone in Alberta, Canada. Relative to the original distribution of boreal forest in our study area, lynx range seems to have contracted up to 22%. In 100 km2 sampling areas, lynx occupancy rate increased 1.93 times every 100 km farther (north) from the range edge that we sampled. An information–theoretic approach was used to evaluate 31 models to see which environmental factors were the best predictors of this spatial pattern. Lynx were strongly correlated with track counts of their primary prey, the snowshoe hare ( Lepus americanus Erxleben, 1777), but this did not explain the observed increase in occupancy farther north. Rather, lynx occupancy was lower in areas with higher road densities and this effect was magnified in areas where coyote ( Canis latrans Say, 1823) activity was highest. The inclusion of these effects rendered the south–north pattern no longer significant. The rapid pace of road building and associated development in Alberta’s boreal forest seems to be reducing habitat quality for Canada lynx, particularly at the southern edge of its range. This may be leading to range contractions for lynx in Alberta, much like has happened elsewhere in North America.
Spirit and Spirituality: Philosophical Trends in Late Modern Pneumatology
Authors: Shults F. LeRon 
Published: October 2008

AbstractThis dialogue piece reviews some of the key developments in the doctrine of the Holy Spirit in late modern theology that have contributed to the scholarly and practical integration of pneumatology and Christian spirituality. Shifts in the meaning and use of three concepts — matter, person, and force — have played a particularly influential role in these developments. These trends are illustrated in several recent pneumatological proposals. The final section outlines some new directions for the ongoing task of reforming pneumatology.
Exploring the history of social work as a human rights profession
Authors: Healy Lynne M. 
Published: October 2008

English The IFSW has declared that social work is a human rights profession. This historical review explores social work contributions to human rights. The compatibility of principles, accomplishments of individual leaders and professional organizations' actions are examined, with particular focus on the period of adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. French La FITS a déclaré que le travail social est une profession des droits de l'homme. Cette revue historique explore les contributions du travail social aux droits de l'homme. La compatibilité des principes, les réalisations des leaders en tant qu'individus, et l'organisation professionnelle des actions sont examinées en portant une attention particulière à la période d'adoption de la Déclaration Universelle des Droits de l'Homme. Spanish La IFSW ha declarado que el trabajo social es una profesión de derechos humanos. Esta visión histórica explora las contribuciones del trabajo social a los derechos humanos. La compatibilidad de principios, los logros de líderes individuales y las acciones de la organización profesional son examinados con un énfasis particular en el período de adopción de la Declaración Universal de los Derechos Humanos.
Social work occupations in England, 1900—39
Authors: Burt Mike 
Published: October 2008

English Between 1900 and 1939 the aims, roles and tasks of social work occupations changed in England. The changes reflected the significance attached to people's social environment, compared with the more individualistic approach of 19th century provision. These changes are discussed in the context of developments in Europe and America during this period. French Entre 1900 et 1939, les finalités, rôles et tâches des professions du travail social en Angleterre subirent des modifications. Les changements reflétaient l'attention portée à l'environnement social des gens par rapport à l'approche plus individualiste du travail social du dix-neuvième siècle. Ces changements sont discutés dans le contexte des développements en Europe et aux États-Unis durant cette période. Spanish Entre 1900 y 1939 los objetivos, roles y tareas de las ocupaciones del trabajo social cambiaron en Inglaterra. Los cambios reflejaron el significado adherido al entorno social de la gente comparado al acercamiento más individualístico de la provisión del siglo XIX. Estos cambios fueron discutidos en los contextos de desarrollo en Europa y América durante este período.
The welfare state in cross-cultural perspective
Authors: Aspalter Christian 
Published: October 2008

English This article sets out to strengthen the cross-cultural perspective in comparative and general welfare state theory, by applying a cross-cultural perspective in both historical and international welfare state analysis. The author puts forward the conclusion that cultural traits and causal determinants can add critical value to the existing body of welfare state theories. French Cet article vise à renforcer la perspective interculturelle dans la théorie comparative et générale de l'état providence, en appliquant une perspective interculturelle dans l'analyse tant historique qu'internationale de l'état providence. L'auteur avance la conclusion que les traits culturels et les déterminants causaux peuvent ajouter une valeur critique au corpus existant de théories de l'état providence. Spanish Este ensayo busca fortalecer la perspectiva intercultural en la teoría general y comparativa del estado del bienestar social a través de la aplicación de una perspectiva intercultural tanto en el análisis histórico del estado del bienestar social como en su análisis internacional. El autor adelanta la conclusión de que los rasgos culturales y los determinantes casuales pueden agregar un valor crítico al cuerpo existente de teorias del estado del bienestar social.
Establishing international cooperation in social work education
Authors: Kniephoff-Knebel Anette , Seibel Friedrich W. 
Published: October 2008

English This article draws on records from the period to illustrate some of the themes and concerns of social workers present at international welfare conferences from 1928. In doing so it identifies some of the significant actors engaged in the early stages of establishing an international association for schools of social work. French Cet article tire les enseignements de la période pour illustrer certains des thèmes et préoccupations des travailleurs sociaux présents aux conférences internationales de travail social et de sécurité sociale depuis 1928. Ce faisant il identifie quelques acteurs significatifs engagés dès les premiers instants dans l'établissement d'une association internationale des écoles de travail social. Spanish Este ensayo analiza los registros del período para ilustrar algunos de los temas y preocupaciones de los trabajadores sociales que asistieron a conferencias internacionales de bienestar social desde 1928. Esto permite identificar a algunos de los actores más significativos que participaron en las primeras fases del establecimiento de una asociación internacional de escuelas de trabajo social.
What kind of social justice does social work seek?
Authors: Solas John 
Published: October 2008

English One of social work's most important practice values is social justice, as cited in the IFSW Code of Ethics. This article deconstructs what the term 'social justice' represents, since it is essential for social work - and the IFSW Code - to be clear about the type of social justice it seeks to uphold. French L'une des plus importantes valeurs du travail social est la justice sociale, telle que citée dans le Code d'éthique et de Déontologie de la FITS (2005). Cet article déconstruit ce que le terme de 'justice sociale' représente, puisqu'il est essentiel pour le travail social - et le Code de la FITS - afin d'être clair sur le type de justice sociale qu'il vise à promouvoir. Spanish Uno de los valores de práctica más importantes del trabajo social es la justicia social, como está descrita en el Código de Ética (2005) del IFSW. Este ensayo describe lo que el término 'justicia social' representa, ya que es esencial en el trabajo social - al igual que el Código del IFSW - para clarificar el tipo de justicia social que se busca mantener.
Patient education program to enhance decision autonomy in multiple sclerosis relapse management: a randomized-controlled trial
Authors: Köpke S , Kasper J , Mühlhauser I , Nübling M , Heesen C 
Published: October 2008

Background Contrary to strong recommendations for high-dose intravenous corticosteroid treatment for relapses in multiple sclerosis (MS), uncertainty remains about most aspects of relapse management. Oral corticosteroids administered by physicians or patients themselves or no corticosteroids also appear justifiable. Objective To evaluate an education program that aims to involve patients with MS in decisions on relapse management. Methods In three German MS centers, 150 patients with relapsing MS were randomly assigned to a single, 4-h group session or a standard information leaflet. The primary outcome measure was the proportion of relapses with oral or no corticosteroid therapy as an indicator of patient autonomy in treatment decision making. Other outcomes included perceived decision autonomy, quality of life, and disability status. Results In the intervention group (IG), 108/139 (78%) relapses were treated with oral or no corticosteroids compared with 101/179 (56%) in the control group; P < 0.0001. Patients’ perceived autonomy of treatment decision making was significantly higher in the IG; P < 0.0001. Quality of life, disability status, and adverse events of corticosteroid therapies were comparable. Conclusion The patient education program led to more autonomous decision making in patients with relapsing MS. Relevant changes in relapse management were observed.
High frequency of adverse health behaviors in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Marrie RA , Horwitz R , Cutter G , Tyry T , Campagnolo D , Vollmer T 
Published: October 2008

Background Health behaviors influence chronic disease risks in the general population, and may influence health outcomes independently of comorbid diseases. Health behaviors receive less attention in multiple sclerosis (MS) than in the general population. We assessed health behaviors among participants in the North American Research Committee on Multiple Sclerosis (NARCOMS) Registry and the demographic characteristics associated with particular health behaviors. Methods In October 2006, we surveyed NARCOMS participants regarding smoking using questions from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey; physical activity using questions from the PEPI study, alcohol use using the AUDIT-C; and height and weight. To determine the independent demographic predictors of health behaviors, we used multivariable logistic regression, either binary or polytomous as appropriate. Results Of 8983 responders, 4867 (54.2%) ever smoked; 1542 (17.3%) currently smoked. On the basis of the AUDIT-C, 1632 (18.2%) were at risk for alcohol abuse or dependence. A quarter of participants were obese ( n = 2269), and 2780 (31.3%) were overweight. Fewer than 25% of participants reported moderate or heavy leisure-time physical activity. Generally, lower socioeconomic status was associated with a higher frequency of adverse health behaviors accounting for other demographic factors. With increasing levels of disability, the reported intensity of physical activity was lower, and the frequency of overweight or obesity was higher. Conclusions Patients with MS exhibit frequent adverse health behaviors, increasing the risk of other chronic diseases. Further research is needed to determine how these behaviors influence disability progression, quality of life, and other MS-related outcomes.
The distribution of new enhancing lesion counts in multiple sclerosis: further explorations
Authors: van den Elskamp IJ , Knol DL , Uitdehaag BMJ , Barkhof F 
Published: October 2008

Background A statistical distribution describing the number of new enhancing lesions seen on MRI in patients with MS is of great importance for improving the statistical methodology of clinical trials using new enhancing lesions as outcome measure. We examined whether there are superior alternatives for the currently proposed negative binomial (NB) distribution. Objective To determine the optimal statistical distribution describing new enhancing lesion counts from a selection of six conceivable models, and to assess the effect on the distribution of a treatment effect, varying follow-up duration and selection for activity at baseline. Methods The statistical NB, Poisson-Inverse Gaussian (P-IG), Poisson- Lognormal (P-LN), Neyman type A (NtA), Pólya-Aeppli (PA) and Zero Inflated Poisson (ZIP) distribution were fitted on new enhancing lesion data derived from one treated and two untreated cohorts of RRMS and relapsing SPMS patients and on subgroups of varying follow-up duration and selection for baseline activity. Measure of comparison was Akaike's information criterion (AIC). Results Both the subgroup analyses as well as a treatment had a noticeable effect on the distributional characteristics of new enhancing lesion counts. The NB distribution generally provided the most optimal fit, closely followed by the P-IG distribution and the P-LN distribution. Fits of the PA and NtA distribution were suboptimal, while the ZIP distribution was the least adequate for modelling new enhancing lesion counts. Conclusion The NB distribution is the optimal distribution for modelling new enhancing lesion counts, irrespective of the effect of treatment, follow-up duration or a baseline activity selection criterion.
Sensory impairments in quiet standing in subjects with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Cattaneo D , Jonsdottir J 
Published: October 2008

Balance disorders and falls are frequently observed in subjects with multiple sclerosis (MS). Along with motor impairment, sensory disorders and integration deficits of sensory inputs lead to inadequate motor responses. The assessment of these sensory disorders in an every day tasks, such as upright stance, increases our knowledge of postural control in this pathology, thus promoting more effective treatments. The aim of the study was to describe sensory impairments and sensory strategies in different sensory conditions. A stabilometric assessment was carried out in a consecutive convenience sample of 53 subjects. The age of the sample was 52.7 (21.1) years; the onset of pathology was 27.20 (14.5) years before the assessment. Balance was assessed in six sensory conditions. The impact of pathology on balance control was shown by the high percentage of abnormal scores: 75% of subjects with MS showed abnormal scores even in the eyes open condition. The alteration of a single sensory input led to an increase of abnormal scores in up to 82% of subjects. Almost all subjects showed abnormal scores in the vestibular conditions where 22% of them fell. The pattern of the subjects’ performance in the six sensory conditions suggests that balance control may be more correlated to the number of reliable sensory inputs than the nature of the sensory input itself.
Spinal cord grey matter lesions in multiple sclerosis detected by post-mortem high field MR imaging
Authors: Gilmore CP , Geurts JJG , Evangelou N , Bot JCJ , van Schijndel RA , Pouwels PJW , Barkhof F , Bö L 
Published: October 2008

Background Post-mortem studies demonstrate extensive grey matter demyelination in MS, both in the brain and in the spinal cord. However the clinical significance of these plaques is unclear, largely because they are grossly underestimated by MR imaging at conventional field strengths. Indeed post-mortem MR studies suggest the great majority of lesions in the cerebral cortex go undetected, even when performed at high field. Similar studies have not been performed using post-mortem spinal cord material. Aim To assess the sensitivity of high field post-mortem MRI for detecting grey matter lesions in the spinal cord in MS. Methods Autopsy material was obtained from 11 MS cases and 2 controls. Proton Density-weighted images of this formalin-fixed material were acquired at 4.7Tesla before the tissue was sectioned and stained for Myelin Basic Protein. Both the tissue sections and the MR images were scored for grey matter and white matter plaques, with the readers of the MR images being blinded to the histopathology results. Results Our results indicate that post-mortem imaging at 4.7Tesla is highly sensitive for cord lesions, detecting 87% of white matter lesions and 73% of grey matter lesions. The MR changes were highly specific for demyelination, with all lesions scored on MRI corresponding to areas of demyelination. Conclusion Our work suggests that spinal cord grey matter lesions may be detected on MRI more readily than GM lesions in the brain, making the cord a promising site to study the functional consequences of grey matter demyelination in MS.
Quantitative PCR for Epstein–Barr virus DNA and RNA in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Lindsey JW , Hatfield LM , Crawford MP , Patel S 
Published: October 2008

Background Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is associated with MS, but it is not clear whether EBV plays a role in the pathogenesis of MS. Hypothesis We hypothesized that the immune control of EBV might be defective in MS, and that reactivation of EBV might drive the immune response in MS. Methods We collected blood from controls and patients with MS, and measured the amounts of EBV DNA and RNA using quantitative PCR. Results We found that EBV DNA and RNA were frequently detectable in peripheral blood leukocytes from both patients with MS and normal controls. There was no significant difference between patients with MS or controls. Paired samples from a small number of subjects suggest that EBV DNA may increase before and during clinical relapse. Conclusions We conclude that the immune control of EBV infection is similar in MS and controls, and that reactivation of EBV may correlate with MS disease activity.
Validation of the Multiple Sclerosis Neuropsychological Screening Questionnaire in Argentina
Authors: Vanotti S , Benedict RHB , Acion L , Cáceres F ,   and VANEM Workgroup
Published: October 2008

Backgrounds Considering the lack of screening technology that would permit neurologists to identify patients who may benefit from formal or more comprehensive assessment of neuropsychological status in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) in Argentina, we felt the need to validate the Multiple Sclerosis Neuropsychological Screening Questionnaire (MSNQ) developed by Benedict, et al. Objective The objective in this multicenter study was to test the reliability and validity of the MSNQ after translation into Spanish in Argentina. We also compared the MSNQ yield by the patient report with that of the two different informants. The sample included 125 patients with MS and 36 normal controls, 27 patients had two informants available and 23 patients and their informants were examined twice at 1-week intervals (test–retest group). All participants completed the MSNQ, RAO BRB, Beck Depression Inventory-Fast Screen, EDSS, and MS Functional Composite. Results We found that an MSNQ-I score of 26 or more resulted in classifications yielding sensitivity of 0.91 and specificity of 0.80, suggesting some utility for this Argentine, informant-report measure. Conclusions This Spanish version of the MSNQ is reliable and useful as a screening test for identifying patients at high risk for cognitive impairment in MS.