bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fracture mechanics weight functions in three dimensions: Subtraction of fundamental fields
Authors: Bains R. , Aliabadi M. H. , Rooke D. P.
Published: November 2005

A new procedure is presented for the determination of the fracture mechanics weight functions that are required for the evaluation of stress intensity factors in cracked solids. The procedure can be used with a standard three‐dimensional boundary element code. The weight functions are proportional to the displacements on the boundary of the solid when the only loading is a pair of self‐equilibrated point forces at the crack front. In previous work, the highly singular crack‐tip fields that this loading produces have been modelled by replacing the crack front by a cylindrical cavity with appropriate displacement boundary conditions on the cavity walls. It is shown here that results are dependent on the cavity radius and that convergence of the results cannot be guaranteed.

An alternative procedure, based on the substraction of fundamental fields (SFF), is demonstrated herein. The high‐order singularities are removed from the field before the reduced problem is solved numerically using a standard boundary element method. Since the reduced problem is equivalent to an unloaded crack in a solìd subjected to boundary tractions, the usual quarter‐point displacement elements and quarter‐point traction singular elements can be used to improve the accuracy. Weight functions, so obtained, are used to evaluate stress intensity factors as a function of position on the crack front for a straight‐fronted crack in a rectangular bar subjected to various loadings. Both edge and central cracks are considered and the validity of the technique is demonstrated by comparing the results with previously published values.
Shear deformability of thin‐walled beams with arbitrary cross sections
Authors: Romano Giovanni , Rosati Luciano , Ferro Giuseppe
Published: November 2005

Formulas for the computation of the shear deformability of thin‐walled prismatic beams can be found in the technical literature only in the special case of symmetric cross sections. In order to fill this gap a formulation of the flexural behaviour of thin‐walled beams taking into account transverse shear deflections is developed in the present paper. On this basis, the general expression of the shear centre location and the shear deformability tensor for open and closed sections of arbitrary shape are given and their properties discussed. In the case of polygonal, circular and arc‐shaped cross sections explicit formulas, which can be suitably implemented for automatic computations, are provided. For the sake of completeness, the expression of the stiffness tensor for prismatic beams, previously obtained by the first two authors in a co‐ordinate‐free version, is reported. Finally, a numerical example is carried out and comparisons with the results given by Cowper1 for symmetric cross sections are presented.
A method for direct evaluation of singular integral in direct boundary element method
Authors: Liao Heshan , Xu Zhixin
Published: November 2005

A new method is presented for evaluating the Cauchy principal value integral and the free term in the three‐dimensional elastic boundary element method. This method expresses the singular integral as the sum of a weakly singular integral and an integrable Cauchy principal value integral. The former can be computed by means of the usual standard Gaussian quadrature after a transformation suggested by Lachat and Watson,10 who correctly limited its use only to weakly singular integral. The latter can be calculated by direct integration in the Cauchy principal value sense. This paper also points out some limitations in the use of triangle polar co‐ordinate suggested by Li et al.11 and later extended by Zhang and Xu.16 The general expression of the free term for a boundary point with arbitrary characteristic surface is also presented. Simple numerical examples which verify the efficiency and accuracy of the present method are given.
Seismic crack propagation analysis of concrete structures using boundary elements
Authors: Pekau O. A. , Batta V.
Published: November 2005

The time‐domain boundary element method is applied to study the propagation of discrete cracks under dynamic loadings. The principles of linear elastic fracture mechanics are employed to accurately represent the stress singularity in front of the crack tip. A fracture criterion suitable for brittle materials is employed to determine the time and direction of the propagating crack. Discrete crack closure under dynamic loadings is modelled and the response of a 2‐D cracked body is obtained by direct integration of the equations of motion. Results are presented for three test problems wherein the accuracy and usefulness of the proposed formulation is established through comparisons with available data. 'It is expected that this formulation can be used to study the seismic cracking of mass concrete structures such as gravity dams.
On a simple triangular reissner/mindlin plate element based on incompatible modes and discrete constraints
Authors: Batoz Jean‐Louis , Katili Irwan
Published: November 2005

In this paper the formulation of a new triangular element based on the Reissner/Mindlin plate theory is presented. The element has three nodes and three d.o.f. per node only. It is based on constant bending modes plus incompatible energy orthogonal higher order bending modes. The transverse shear effects are represented using the moment equilibrium and the constitutive equations. Discrete (collocation) shear constraints are considered on each side to relate the kinematical and the independent shear strains. The element has a proper rank, is completely locking free, passes all constant patch‐tests exactly. The detailed numerical evaluation shows that the element, called DST‐BK, is a robust and high‐performance element for thick and thin plates.
Projection methods in flexible multibody dynamics. Part I: Kinematics
Authors: Shabana A. A. , Hwang Y. L. , Wehage R. A.
Published: November 2005

In this paper a recursive projection method for the dynamic analysis of open‐loop mechanical systems that consist of a set of interconnected deformable bodies is presented. The configuration of each body in the system is identified using a coupled set of reference and elastic co‐ordinates. The absolute velocities and accelerations of leaf or child bodies in the open‐loop system are expressed in terms of the absolute velocities and accelerations of the parent bodies and the time derivatives of the relative co‐ordinates of the joints between the bodies. The dynamic differential equations of motion are developed for each link using the generalized Newton‐Euler equations. The relationship between the actual joint reactions and the generalized forces combined with the kinematic relationships and the generalized Newton‐Euler equations are used to develop a system of loosely coupled equations which has a sparse matrix structure. Using matrix partitioning and recursive projection techniques based on optimal block factorization an efficient solution for the system accelerations and joint reaction forces is obtained. This solution technique yields a much smaller operations count and can more effectively exploit vectorization and parallel processing. It also allows a systematic procedure for decoupling the joint and elastic accelerations.
Coupling finite elements and magnetic networks in magnetostatics
Authors: Philips Dirk Alexander
Published: November 2005

In this paper a new method for computing non‐linear magnetostatic fields is introduced, which allows the simultaneous coupling of a finite element structure with a magnetic network. Combining the advantages of both methods while avoiding their drawbacks, this coupling yields both an accurate and time‐efficient computation.

The traditional method of the unknown mesh fluxes is applied for the solution of the magnetic network. The finite element solution, on the other hand, is based on a classical first‐order interpolation of the unknown vector potential. The coupling is established by a proper organization of the unknowns on the boundary common to the finite element and network regions. In this way, a single system of non‐linear equations is obtained.

Moreover, it is shown that the coupled system of equations is equivalent to a single finite element system if generalized base functions are allowed. Consequently, various results from finite element theory may be applied. For instance, the matrix governing the iteratively linearized system of equations can directly be shown symmetrical and positive definite.

Finally, the field inside a permanent magnet motor is calculated with the coupled method. Although the number of unknowns is dramatically reduced compared to a full FE calculation, the same level of accuracy is achieved. Hereby, the benefit of the coupled method is clearly proved.
Direct evaluation of singular boundary integrals in two‐dimensional biharmonic analysis
Authors: Camp Charles V.
Published: November 2005

Development of techniques to provide rapid and accurate evaluation of the integrations required in boundary element method (BEM) formulations are receiving more attention in the literature. In this work, a series of direct expressions for surface integrals, required for a boundary element solution of the non‐homogeneous biharmonic over a general two‐dimensional curvilinear surface, are presented. The concept of an isoparametric representation, usually applied to the variation of the field variables and the geometry, is extended to the parametric mapping of the curvilinear geometry. The result renders the typically complicated Jacobian function into a series of polynomial expressions based on the shape function set and several discrete Jacobian values. An application of the isoparametric approximation of the Jacobian for a quadratic element representation is developed. Implementation of this approximation significantly improves the accuracy of the boundary integral solution by eliminating error associated with numerical quadrature. Overall computational efficiency is improved by reducing the time necessary to calculate individual surface integrals and evaluate field variables at internal points. A numerical solution of the boundary integral equations of phenomena governed by the biharmonic equation is presented and compared with an exact analysis.
Tissue factor pathway inhibitor: structure, biology and involvement in disease
Authors: Lwaleed Bashir A , Bass Paul S
Published: November 2005

Tissue factor (TF)‐initiated coagulation plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of many diseases, including cancer and inflammation. Tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) is a plasma Kunitz‐type serine protease inhibitor, which modulates initiations of coagulation induced by TF. In a factor (F) Xa‐dependent feedback system, TFPI binds directly and inhibits the TF–FVII/FVIIa complex. Normally, TFPI exists in plasma both as a full‐length molecule and as variably carboxy‐terminal truncated forms. TFPI also circulates in complex with plasma lipoproteins. The levels and the dual inhibitor effect of TFPI on FXa and TF–FVII/FVIIa complex offers insight into the mechanisms of various pathological conditions triggered by TF. The use of selective pharmacological inhibitors has become an indispensable tool in experimental haemostasis and thrombosis research. In vivo administration of recombinant TFPI (rTFPI) in an experimental animal model prevents thrombosis (and re‐thrombosis after thrombolysis), reduces mortality from E. coli‐induced‐septic shock, prevents fibrin deposition on subendothelial human matrix and protects against disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Thus, TFPI may play an important role in modulating TF‐induced thrombogenesis and it may also provide a unique therapeutic approach for prophylaxis and/or treatment of various diseases. In this review, we consider structural and biochemical aspects of the TFPI molecule and detail its inhibitory mechanisms and therapeutic implications in various disease conditions. Copyright © 2005 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and properties of sulfonated poly(arylene ether) containing tetraphenylmethane moieties for proton‐exchange membrane
Authors: Wang L. , Meng Y. Z. , Wang S. J. , Li X. H. , Xiao M.
Published: November 2005

A novel sulfonated poly(arylene ether) containing tetraphenylmethane moieties was successfully synthesized by the sulfonation of a designed parent polymer using chlorosulfonic acid as sulfonation agent. The sulfonation took place only at the para position on the pendant phenyl rings because of the specially designed parent polymer. The sulfonation degree can be easily controlled by using different ratios of sulfonation agent to polymer repeating unit. The position and degree of sulfonation were characterized by 1H NMR and elemental analysis. The sulfonated polymers are highly soluble in common organic solvents, such as dimethylsulfoxide, N,N′‐dimethylacetamide, dimethylformamide, ethylene glycol monomethyl ether, and can be readily cast into tough and smooth films from solutions. The films showed good thermal and hydrolysis stabilities. Moreover, Fenton's reagent test revealed that the membrane exhibited superior stability to oxidation. The proton conductivities of the films were determined to be equivalent with Nafion® 117 under same conditions. The new polymer with sulfonic acid function on pendent phenyl rings can be potentially used as a proton‐exchange membrane for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 6411–6418, 2005
Synthesis and properties of poly(heteroaryleneethynylene)s consisting of electron‐accepting benzothiadiazole/quinoxaline units and electron‐donating alkyl thiophene units
Authors: Ashraf Raja Shahid , Klemm Elisabeth
Published: November 2005

Low‐band‐gap π‐conjugated polymers composed of π‐excessive thiophene and π‐deficient benzothiadiazole and quinoxaline units were prepared in high yields by a polycondensation method using palladium cross‐coupling reactions of alkylthiophene diacetylenes, 4,7‐dibromo‐2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole, and 5,8‐dibromo‐2,3‐dipyridine‐2‐ylquinoxaline. The copolymers were characterized by NMR, IR, UV, gel permeation chromatography, and elemental analysis. High‐molecular‐weight (weight‐average molecular weight up to 82,600 g/mol), thermostable, soluble, and film‐forming materials were obtained. The polymers were photoluminescent in chloroform and showed metallic luster in the solid state. The absorption and emission in solution and in the solid state of the polymers revealed that the polymers generated a π‐stacked structure in the solid state, and the polymer molecules in the film were ordered. Thin films of poly[3‐dodecylthiophen‐2,5‐diylethynylene‐(benzo[1,2,5]thiadiazole‐4,7‐diyl)ethynylene] (P‐1), poly[3,4‐di dodecylthiophen‐2,5‐diylethynylene‐(benzo[1,2,5]thiadiazole‐4,7‐diyl)ethynylene] (P‐2), poly[3‐dodecylthiophene‐2,5‐diylethynylene‐(2,3‐dipyridine‐2‐ylquinoxaline‐5,8‐diyl)ethynylene] (P‐3), and poly[3,4‐didodecylthiophene‐2,5‐diylethynylene‐(2,3‐dipyridine‐2‐ylquinoxaline‐5,8‐diyl)‐ethynylene] (P‐4) exhibited an optical band gap of ∼1.85–2.08 eV. The highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital levels of the polymers were determined from electrochemical measurements. In the absorption and emission spectra of these polymers in chloroform/methanol mixtures, all the polymers revealed solvatochromic effects, which were related to the formation of aggregates, as confirmed by temperature‐dependence absorption investigations. The absorption spectra of P‐2 and P‐4 at different temperatures also revealed significant effects of the structure on the molecular interactions. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 6445–6454, 2005
Decohesion of a rigid punch from an elastic layer: Transition from “flaw sensitive” to “flaw insensitive” regime
Authors: Tang Tian , Hui Chung‐Yuen
Published: November 2005

A cohesive zone model is used to study the pull‐off of a rigid flat cylindrical punch of radius c from an elastic layer of thickness h. The adhesion between the punch and the elastic layer is assumed to be sufficiently weak so that pull‐off occurs by the growth of a crack from the edge of contact. Our result shows that the pull‐off stress, when normalized by the interfacial strength σo, depends on a single dimensionless parameter χf = σc(1−v2) g(ξ)/2πEWad, where E and v are the Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio of the elastic layer, respectively, Wad is the work of adhesion, and g(ξ) is a known dimensionless function of ξ ≡ c/h. χf can be viewed as a generalized Tabor parameter. It characterizes the transition from a “brittle” or flaw sensitive failure regime to a “ductile” or flaw insensitive regime. The result in this work is used to generalize Maugis' theory of adhesive contact to the case where the elastic substrate is of finite thickness. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 43: 3628–3637, 2005
Studies on polyimide imidization in far‐infrared radiation
Authors: Lu Yun‐Hua , Zhan Mao‐Sheng
Published: November 2005

In this paper, the monomers 4,4′‐oxydiphthalic anhydride (ODPA), 3,3′,4,4′‐biphenyl dianhydride (BPDA), 3,4′‐oxidianiline (3,4′‐ODA), and 4,4′‐oxidianiline (4,4′‐ODA) were selected to synthesize polyimides (PI) or copolyimides (co‐PI) in N,N‐dimethyl acetamide (DMAc) by two‐step method. To control the PI molecular weight (MW), phthalic anhydride (PA) was used as the end‐capping reagent. The effect of far‐infrared radiation (FIR) on PI imidization was investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Some factors affecting imidization process in FIR were discussed, including PI imidization time and temperature, molecular structure, designed number average molecular weight, crystalline, imidization procedure, film thickness, polyamide acid (PAA) solid content, and so forth. The PI imidization process in FIR will be affected by all these factors. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 43: 3621–3627, 2005
Identification of flavonoids using liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization and ion trap tandem mass spectrometry with an MS/MS library
Authors: Lee Jong Suk , Kim Dong Hyun , Liu Kwang‐Hyeon , Oh Tae Kwang , Lee Choong Hwan
Published: November 2005

Searchable MS/MS spectra libraries, constructed using the results of liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization (ESI) tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) with data‐dependent acquisition on an ion trap mass spectrometer, are presented with regard to the identification and confirmation of a variety of closely related flavonoids in a set of biological samples. Flavonoids were found to exhibit a maximum amount of structurally specific MS/MS spectra at 45% of normalized collision energy on the instrument used, without wideband activation. These MS/MS spectra were then searched automatically against a 297‐substance MS/MS library that contains many previously acquired spectra of standard flavonoids. The possible applications of this powerful technique to biological samples are also discussed. Daidzein and genistein were identified through the MS/MS spectra library while searching through LC/MS/MS data for plant and microbial extracts. Moreover, these compounds proved completely distinguishable from other flavonoids of closely related structures in the MS/MS spectra library, using the NIST MS search program. The applicability of the library‐searchable spectra at low concentrations was demonstrated by successful identification of daidzein and genistein at 0.05 and 0.5 µg/mL, respectively. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the effectiveness of clone detection by string matching
Authors: Ducasse Stéphane , Nierstrasz Oscar , Rieger Matthias
Published: November 2005

Although duplicated code is known to pose severe problems for software maintenance, it is difficult to identify in large systems. Many different techniques have been developed to detect software clones, some of which are very sophisticated, but are also expensive to implement and adapt. Lightweight techniques based on simple string matching are easy to implement, but how effective are they? We present a simple string‐based approach which we have successfully applied to a number of different languages such COBOL, JAVA, C++, PASCAL, PYTHON, SMALLTALK, C and PDP‐11 ASSEMBLER. In each case the maximum time to adapt the approach to a new language was less than 45 minutes. In this paper we investigate a number of simple variants of string‐based clone detection that normalize differences due to common editing operations, and assess the quality of clone detection for very different case studies. Our results confirm that this inexpensive clone detection technique generally achieves high recall and acceptable precision. Over‐zealous normalization of the code before comparison, however, can result in an unacceptable numbers of false positives. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Oral misoprostol in the third stage of labor
Authors: Zachariah E.S. , Naidu M. , Seshadri L.
Published: November 2005

Objective: To compare the efficacy of intravenous ergometrine, intramuscular oxytocin, and oral misoprostol in the control of postpartum hemorrhage. Methods: Mean blood loss, rates of blood loss between 500 and 1000 ml, hematocrit fall greater than 10%, and need for additional oxytocic agentsand nature and rates of adverse effects were assessed in this prospective, randomized, controlled study. Results: All outcomes were similar in the 3 groups. The main adverse effects in the misoprostol group were temperatures higher than 99 °F, which normalized within 2 h and shivering, which was mild and self‐limiting. Conclusions: Oral misoprostol is as effective as conventional oxytocic agents in preventing postpartum hemorrhage and can be recommended for use in low‐resource settings.
System Errors in Intrapartum Electronic Fetal Monitoring: A Case Review
Authors: Miller Lisa A.
Published: November 2005

Intrapartum electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) interpretation and management continue to be a common issue in litigation involving adverse outcomes in term pregnancies. This article uses a case study approach to illustrate system errors related to intrapartum EFM. Common system errors related to use of intrapartum EFM include knowledge deficits, communication failures, and fear of conflict. Strategies for reducing error and the promotion of a patient safety approach to risk management in EFM are discussed, with an emphasis on the importance of a true team approach to EFM education, interpretation, and management.
Parvovirus B19 in Pregnancy
Authors: Goff Meredith
Published: November 2005

Pregnant women who report possible exposure to a viral illness can present a clinical predicament for obstetric providers. Although some viruses are benign in pregnancy, others can have serious consequences. Parvovirus B19, the causative agent of fifth disease, is one of the more serious of the common viruses. Understanding the pathophysiology and appropriate testing for parvovirus will help providers better counsel their patients.
Trouble in the Office: Liability Issues in Ambulatory Care
Authors: Kriebs Jan M.
Published: November 2005

Most clinicians are keenly aware of the liability risks associated with adverse birth outcomes for mother and/or infant. This level of awareness and concern also needs to extend to the day‐to‐day management of office practice. Clinicians who care for healthy women and their families may see abnormalities infrequently. The low yield of abnormal results means that close monitoring is essential to prevent overlooking the rare abnormal finding. This article focuses on three areas of liability risk for midwives and others who practice in the ambulatory setting: 1) inadequate tracking of test and referral results, 2) failure to diagnose, and 3) poor communication. Although none of these issues are limited to the ambulatory setting, only office practice is addressed in this article.
Shoulder Dystocia: Etiology, Common Risk Factors, and Management
Authors: Jevitt Cecilia M.
Published: November 2005

Shoulder dystocia and brachial plexus injury occur in 0.5% to 1.5% of all births. Risk factors for both include maternal obesity, excessive prenatal weight gain, maternal diabetes, protracted labor, and fetal macrosomia. These factors are involved in only about 50% of births complicated by shoulder dystocia or brachial plexus injury. Shoulder dystocia has a low recurrence rate (9.8%–16.7%), although history of previous shoulder dystocia is the most reliable predictor of occurrence. Brachial plexus injury is the most common morbidity associated with shoulder dystocia, but 50% of newborns who present with this injury were not subject to shoulder dystocia at birth. Most brachial plexus injuries are transient, although 5% to 22% become permanent. Shoulder dystocia followed by permanent brachial plexus injury or mental impairment is one of the leading causes of malpractice allegations. Prompt assessment and management of shoulder dystocia and preparation to maximize the efficiency of shoulder dystocia maneuvers are critical. Documentation of the appropriate use of maneuvers to relieve shoulder dystocia demonstrates standard of care practice, thereby decreasing the potential for successful malpractice allegations.
Liability in Triage: Management of EMTALA Regulations and Common Obstetric Risks
Authors: Angelini Diane J. , Mahlmeister Laura R.
Published: November 2005

The Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) affects all clinicians who provide triage care for pregnant women. EMTALA has specific regulations for hospitals relative to women in active labor. Violations can carry stiff penalties. It is critical for clinicians performing obstetric triage to understand the duties and obligations of this law. This article discusses EMTALA and reviews common liability risks in obstetric triage as well as strategies to modify those risks.
Perceptions of Predisposing and Protective Factors for Perinatal Depression in Same‐Sex Parents
Authors: Ross Lori E. , Steele Leah , Sapiro Beth
Published: November 2005

Increasing numbers of women are choosing to have children in the context of same‐sex relationships or as “out” lesbian or bisexual individuals. This study used qualitative methods to assess perceived predisposing and protective factors for perinatal depression in lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer (LGBQ) women. Two focus groups with LGBQ women were conducted: 1) biological parents of young children and 2) nonbiological parents of young children or whose partners were currently pregnant. Three major themes emerged. Issues related to social support were primary, particularly related to disappointment with the lack of support provided by members of the family of origin. Participants also described issues related to the couple relationship, such as challenges in negotiating parenting roles. Finally, legal and policy barriers (e.g., second parent adoption) were identified as a significant source of stress during the transition to parenthood. Both lack of social support and relationship problems have previously been identified as risk factors for perinatal depression in heterosexual women, and legal and policy barriers may represent a unique risk factor for this population. Therefore, additional study of perinatal mental health among LGBQ women is warranted.
Intrauterine Asphyxia: Clinical Implications for Providers of Intrapartum Care
Authors: Fahey Jenifer , King Tekoa L.
Published: November 2005

Advances in science and technology have allowed researchers to gain a better understanding of the pathophysiology leading to long‐term neurologic damage in newborns. Intrapartum events are now known to be an infrequent cause of adverse neurologic outcome. Clinicians caring for women during labor must have an understanding of the pathophysiology of intrauterine asphyxia as well as an awareness of the capabilities and limitations of available intrapartum fetal assessment tools to diagnose intrauterine fetal asphyxia or predict neurologic outcome. This article reviews the physiology of acid‐base balance and fetal gas exchange as well as the current scientific understanding of the role of intrauterine asphyxia in the pathophysiology of neonatal encephalopathy and cerebral palsy. Recommendations for care and documentation are included.
Long‐Term Clinical Trial of Tinnitus Retraining Therapy
Authors: Herraiz Carlos , Hernandez F. Javier , Plaza Guillermo , Santos Gonzalo De Los
Published: November 2005

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate the efficacy of tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT) for tinnitus relief compared to a waiting list group and a partially treated group (patients that refused prosthesis adaptation).

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective non‐randomised clinical assay (n = 158). Visual analogue scale (VAS) for intensity and the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) were evaluated at 12‐month period.

RESULTS

Eighty two percent of the patients that followed TRT improved their tinnitus according to their self‐evaluation. THI score was reduced from 48% to 32% and VAS decreased from 6.6 to 5.3 after one year (p < 0.05). TRT patients showed a higher improvement on their tinnitus, THI and VAS scores when compared with the waiting list patients and with patients that refused prosthesis adaptation when recommended (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

TRT improved tinnitus in 82% of the subjects and statistically reduced THI and VAS scores after 12 months. TRT has shown to be more effective than a waiting list group and partially treated patients.
The political effects of referendums: An analysis of institutional innovations in Eastern and Central Europe
Authors: Hug Simon
Published: November 2005

Theory suggests that the political effects of referendums should vary according to the institutional provisions that allow for direct involvement of citizens in decision-making. Relying on extant theoretical models the paper proposes initial tests of some implications for the newly democratized countries in Eastern and Central Europe. The constitutions of these countries distinguish themselves by a wide variety of institutional provisions for referendums. Taking advantage of this increased variance, the paper demonstrates effects of different institutional provisions on policy outcomes, which, so far, have only been demonstrated at the sub-national level, for example, in the United States and Switzerland.
Use of Computed Tomography in the Assessment of Mandibular Invasion in Carcinoma of the Retromolar Trigone
Authors: Lane Andrew P. , Buckmire Robert A. , Mukherji Suresh K. , Pillsbury Harold C. , Meredith Scott D.
Published: November 2005

Carcinomas originating in the retromolar trigone (RMT) are uncommon and characterized by early spread. Determination of mandibular invasion is significant for planning therapy and determining prognosis. For oral cavity cancers in general, CT is reasonably accurate in assessing bone invasion. However, there is a paucity of information specifically addressing the value of CT in the RMT. In this study, the records of patients with biopsy‐proven RMT carcinomas treated between 1984 and 1998 were reviewed with attention to preoperative CT scans and histopathologic findings during surgery. Half of the patients who were treated with primary resection had mandibular invasion. Bone invasion was not identified radiographically in 27% of patients with preoperative CT scans. The sensitivity of CT for bone involvement in RMT cancers was 50%, with a negative predictive value of 61.1%. The positive predictive value was 91.1%. These findings suggest that CT is a useful, but potentially inaccurate, predictor of bone invasion in the RMT.
Interrelationship between Protein Phosphatase‐2A and Cytoskeletal Architecture during the Endothelial Cell Response to Soluble Products Produced by Human Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Witt Christopher J. , Gabel Steven P. , Meisinger Jeremy , Werra Gwendolyn , Liu Shirley W. , Young M. Rita I.
Published: November 2005

Tumor neovascularization is necessary for the progressive development of all solid tumors, including head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs). The angiogenic process includes increased endothelial cell motility. Our prior studies have shown the importance of protein phos‐phatase‐2A (PP‐2A) in restricting endothelial cell motility. Because motility is regulated by the polymerization/depolymerization of the cellular cytoskeleton, the present study defined the interrelationship between PP‐2A and the cytoskeleton during endothelial cell responses to HNSCC‐derived angiogenic factors. PP‐2A was shown to colocalize with microtubules of unstimulated endothelial cells. However, exposure to HNSCC‐derived products resulted in a more diffuse distribution of PP‐2A staining and a loss of filamentous tubulin. The feasibility of pharmacologically preventing this cytoskeletal disorganization as a means of blocking tumor‐induced angiogenesis was tested. This was accomplished by use of 1α,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25 (OH)2D3] and all‐trans‐retinoic acid to indirectly stimulate PP‐2A activity through their capacity to elevated intracellular levels of the second messenger ceramide. Pretreatment of endothelial cells with either 1,25(OH)2D3 or retinoic acid prevented the cytoskeletal disorganization that otherwise occurs in endothelial cells on exposure to HNSCC‐derived products. These studies support the feasibility of using elevation of PP‐2A to prevent the mor‐phogenic component of the angiogenic process that is stimulated by HNSCC‐derived factors.
Anatomic correlates of acoustic rhinometry as measured by rigid nasal endoscopy
Authors: Corey Jacquelynne P. , Nalbone Vincent P. , Ng Bernard A.
Published: November 2005

Acoustic rhinometry (AR) evaluates the cross‐sectional areas and volume of the nasal cavity through acoustic reflections. Successive valleys displayed on an AR graph are believed to correspond to anatomic landmarks. To assess the anatomic accuracy of AR, we performed AR and endoscopic measurements with a rigid endoscope in 85 normal human subjects after topical decongestion. Endoscopic measurements were recorded for distances between the midcolumella and the nasal valve, the anterior end of the inferior turbinate, the anterior end of the middle turbinate, the midportion of the middle turbinate, and the posterior nasopharynx. The first AR valley most closely corresponded with endoscopic measurements of the nasal valve. The second valley had a mean value that corresponded with the anterior end of the inferior turbinate. The third valley matched best with the values of the anterior end of the middle turbinate. Nasopharyngeal measurements by each modality yielded a good agreement. AR appears to correspond to nasal anatomic landmarks but not in an exact point‐to‐point manner.
Stapedectomy in the guinea pig
Authors: Melanie Adamczyk , Catherine M. Appleton , G. Joseph Parell , Patrick J. Antonelli
Published: November 2005

Stapedectomy has traditionally been studied in the feline model. Ethical considerations and costs have made this model less feasible for ongoing research. The purpose of this study was to examine the guinea pig as a model for research on stapedectomy. Technical difficulties included limited exposure and small dimensions of the ossicles. The surgical technique with and without the use of a CO2 laser and the relevant anatomy of the guinea pig middle ear are described.
Modification of the tracheal flange of the Provox voice prosthesis for easier insertion
Authors: Vural Emre , Hanna Ehab
Published: November 2005

Prosthetic voice restoration with tracheoesophageal puncture has become the preferred method of speech rehabilitation of laryngectomized patients. Indwelling prostheses seem more advantageous because they do not necessitate frequent removal, cleansing, and insertion for the maintenance. The Provox system (Atos Medical AB, Horby, Sweden) is one of the most widely used prosthetic systems because it has several technical advantages over the other systems; however, the disproportion between its wide tracheal flange and the narrow puncture can make insertion somewhat difficult. We present a simple modification on the tracheal flange of the Provox voice prosthesis, which facilitates its insertion.
To Trust an Adversary: Integrating Rational and Psychological Models of Collaborative Policymaking
Authors: LEACH WILLIAM D. , SABATIER PAUL A.
Published: November 2005

This study explores how trust arises among policy elites engaged in prolonged face-to-face negotiations. Mirroring recent evidence that citizens' procedural preferences (as opposed to policy preferences) drive trust in government, we find thatinterpersonaltrust among stakeholders in consensus-seeking partnerships is explained by the perceived legitimacy and fairness of the negotiation process more so than by the partnership's track record of producing mutually agreeable policies. Overall, hypotheses derived from social psychology do as well or better than those based on rational-choice assumptions. Important predictors of trust include small and stable groups, generalized social trust, clear decision rules, political stalemate, congruence on policy-related beliefs, and absence of devil-shift (the belief that one's opponents wield more power than one's allies). Surprisingly, null or negative correlations exist between trust and network density, measured by membership in voluntary associations. The study illustrates the value of behavioral models that integrate institutional, rational, and psychological explanations.
“Interpose Your Friendly Hand”: Political Supports for the Exercise of Judicial Review by the United States Supreme Court
Authors: WHITTINGTON KEITH E.
Published: November 2005

The exercise of constitutional review by an independent and active judiciary is commonly regarded as against the interest of current government officials, who presumably prefer to exercise power without interference. In this article, I advance an “overcoming obstructions” account of why judicial review might be supported by existing power holders. When current elected officials are obstructed from fully implementing their own policy agenda, they may favor the active exercise of constitutional review by a sympathetic judiciary to overcome those obstructions and disrupt the status quo. This provides an explanation for why current officeholders might tolerate an activist judiciary. This dynamic is illustrated with case studies from American constitutional history addressing obstructions associated with federalism, entrenched interests, and fragmented and cross-pressured political coalitions.
Understanding and sharing intentions: The origins of cultural cognition
Authors: Tomasello Michael , Carpenter Malinda , Call Josep , Behne Tanya , Moll Henrike
Published: November 2005

We propose that the crucial difference between human cognition and that of other species is the ability to participate with others in collaborative activities with shared goals and intentions: shared intentionality. Participation in such activities requires not only especially powerful forms of intention reading and cultural learning, but also a unique motivation to share psychological states with others and unique forms of cognitive representation for doing so. The result of participating in these activities is species-unique forms of cultural cognition and evolution, enabling everything from the creation and use of linguistic symbols to the construction of social norms and individual beliefs to the establishment of social institutions. In support of this proposal we argue and present evidence that great apes (and some children with autism) understand the basics of intentional action, but they still do not participate in activities involving joint intentions and attention (shared intentionality). Human children's skills of shared intentionality develop gradually during the first 14 months of life as two ontogenetic pathways intertwine: (1) the general ape line of understanding others as animate, goal-directed, and intentional agents; and (2) a species-unique motivation to share emotions, experience, and activities with other persons. The developmental outcome is children's ability to construct dialogic cognitive representations, which enable them to participate in earnest in the collectivity that is human cognition.
Language first, then shared intentionality, then a beneficent spiral
Authors: Bickerton Derek
Published: November 2005

Tomasello et al. give a good account of how shared intentionality develops in children, but a much weaker one of how it might have evolved. They are unduly hasty in dismissing the emergence of language as a triggering factor. An alternative account is suggested in which language provided the spark, but thereafter language and shared intentionality coevolved.
Three other motivational factors
Authors: Bach Kent
Published: November 2005

Ainslie uses his hyperbolic discount model to explain a dazzling array of puzzling motivational phenomena. In so doing, he assumes that the motivational force of a given option at a given time is directly proportional to its discount-adjusted reward as assessed at that time. He overlooks three other factors which, independently of the perceived reward, can affect motivational force.
Joint cooperative hunting among wild chimpanzees: Taking natural observations seriously
Authors: Boesch Christophe
Published: November 2005

Ignoring most published evidence on wild chimpanzees, Tomasello et al.'s claim that shared goals and intentions are uniquely human amounts to a faith statement. A brief survey of chimpanzee hunting tactics shows that group hunts are compatible with a shared goals and intentions hypothesis. The disdain of observational data in experimental psychology leads some to ignore the reality of animal cognitive achievements.
Early development of shared intentionality with peers
Authors: Brownell Celia A. , Nichols Sara , Svetlova Margarita
Published: November 2005

In their account of the origins of human collaborative abilities, Tomasello et al. rely heavily on reasoning and evidence from adult–child collaborations. Peer collaborations are not discussed, but early peer collaborations differ from early adult–child collaborations. Describing and explaining the similarities and differences in shared intentionality with peers and adults will bring us closer to understanding the developmental mechanisms.
Regret and the control of temporary preferences
Authors: Connolly Terry , Reb Jochen
Published: November 2005

Regret is often symptomatic of the defective decisions associated with “temporary preference” problems. It may also help overcome these defects. Outcome regret can modify the relative utilities of different payoffs. Process regret can motivate search for better decision processes or trap-evading strategies. Heightened regret may thus be functional for control of these self-defeating choices.
Homo sapiens, a localized species
Authors: Bruner Jerome
Published: November 2005

Tomasello et al. point up the mutual interdependency of the unique human capacity for intersubjectivity and the evolution and institutionalization of culture. Since both intersubjectivity and cultural cooperation require localized knowledge, Homo sapiens is highly reliant on such knowledge and in that sense is a highly localized species, requiring special means to surmount cultural misreadings and to achieve translocal, or global, interconnection.
Why do individuals with autism lack the motivation or capacity to share intentions?
Authors: Charman Tony
Published: November 2005

Tomasello et al. highlight how in combination cognitive impairments and affective impairments help explain why individuals with autism do not enter fully into human culture. We query whether the motivational component is a later development in human ontogeny and whether the cognitive level of intention reading is intact in autism. A key question is what neuropsychological impairments underlie this cognitive–affective impairment.
Hyperbola-like discounting, impulsivity, and the analysis of will
Authors: Green Leonard , Myerson Joel
Published: November 2005

Ainslie's insightful treatment of dynamically inconsistent choice stands in contrast to traditional views in psychology, economics, and philosophy. We comment on the form of the discounting function and on new findings regarding choice between delayed rewards. Finally, we argue that the positive correlation between temporal and probability discounting is inconsistent with the view that impulsivity represents a unitary trait.
Comparing apples to oranges: Who does the framing?
Authors: Griffin Richard , Dennett Daniel
Published: November 2005

The idea of “bundling” lesser later rewards so they outweigh smaller sooner rewards is compelling, but the sophisticated cognitive activity involved in this bundling is not yet modeled; in particular the role of language is hard to assess.
Symbolic behavior and perspective-taking are forms of derived relational responding and can be learned
Authors: Dymond Simon , McHugh Louise
Published: November 2005

Numerous questions remain unanswered concerning the functional determinants of symbolic behavior and perspective-taking, particularly regarding the capabilities of children with autism. An alternative approach that considers these behaviors to be forms of derived relational responding allows for the design of functional intervention programs to establish such repertoires in individuals for whom they are absent.
Interaction synchrony and neural circuits contribute to shared intentionality
Authors: Feldman Ruth , Mayes Linda C. , Swain James E.
Published: November 2005

In the dyadic and triadic sharing of emotions, intentions, and behaviors in families, interactive synchrony is important to the early life experiences that contribute to the development of cultural cognition. This synchrony likely depends on neurobiological circuits, currently under study with brain imaging, that involve attention, stress response, and memory.
Behavioral (pico)economics and the brain sciences
Authors: Ross Don , Spurrett David
Published: November 2005

Supporters of Ainslie's model face questions about its integration with neuroscience. Although processes of value estimation may well turn out to be locally implemented, methodological reasons suggest this is less likely in the case of subpersonal “interests.”
What are the consequences of understanding the complex goal-directed actions of others?
Authors: Gauvain Mary
Published: November 2005

Four issues that build on the ideas offered by Tomasello et al. are discussed: the developmental course of shared intentionality and its relation to other developing abilities and experiences, and the conceptualization of three key features of the process: motivation, plans and the development of planning, and culture.
A few reasons why we don't share Tomasello et al.'s intuitions about sharing
Authors: Gergely György , Csibra Gergely
Published: November 2005

Tomasello et al.'s two prerequisites, we argue, are not sufficient to explain the emergence of Joint Collaboration. An adequate account must include the human-specific capacity to communicate relevant information (that may have initially evolved to ensure efficient cultural learning). This, together with understanding intentional actions, does provide sufficient preconditions for Joint Collaboration without the need to postulate a primary human motive to share others' psychological states.
Reference point-dependent tradeoffs in intertemporal decision making
Authors: Wang X. T. , Simons Jeffrey S.
Published: November 2005

We agree with Ainslie's general approach to intertemporal choices and self-control. However, we argue that a concept of “will” is superfluous in explaining tradeoffs between SS (smaller and sooner) and LL (larger and later) rewards in a framework of temporal goal setting and goal aggregation. We provide an alternative framework of reference point-dependent tradeoffs between SS and LL options.