bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What women in France say about alcohol abstinence during pregnancy
Authors: TOUTAIN STÉPHANIE
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. In spite of the implemented policies warning of the dangers of alcohol consumption for pregnant women, many women still continue drinking during pregnancy. This article focuses on the question of the representations of alcohol consumption during pregnancy in France. Design and Methods. A qualitative approach based on discussions with 42 pregnant women in three Internet chat groups in 2007 was used for our study. Results. The recommendation for total abstinence is often misunderstood by women, as are the consequences of drinking for the unborn babies. Besides, these Internet users do not seem to know much about the consequences of alcohol consumption for unborn babies. Finally, their sources of information are varied (written, oral, television, Internet, professionals of health, family networks and friends); however, their mothers remain the most credible source for them. Discussion and Conclusion. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy already constitutes a real taboo for the heath care professionals in France. It is extremely urgent and imperative that they recommend total abstinence during pregnancy, in order to avoid any irreversible consequences for the unborn babies.[Toutain S. What women in France say about alcohol abstinence during pregnancy. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009]
Factors associated with employment among a cohort of injection drug users
Authors: RICHARDSON LINDSEY , WOOD EVAN , LI KATHY , KERR THOMAS
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. One of the most substantial costs of drug use is lost productivity and social functioning, including holding of a regular job. However, little is known about employment patterns of injection drug users (IDU). We sought to identify factors that were associated with legal employment among IDU. Design and Methods. We describe the employment patterns of participants of a longitudinal cohort study of IDU in Vancouver, Canada. We then use generalised estimating equations (GEE) to determine statistical associations between legal employment and various intrinsic, acquired, behavioural and circumstantial factors. Results. From 1 June 1999 to 30 November 2003, 330 (27.7%) of 1190 participants reported having a job at some point during follow up. Employment rates remain somewhat stable throughout the study period (9–12.4%). Factors positively and significantly associated with legal employment in multivariate analysis were male gender (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.78) and living outside the Downtown Eastside (AOR = 1.85). Factors negatively and significantly associated with legal employment included older age (AOR = 0.97); Aboriginal ethnicity (AOR = 0.72); HIV‐positive serostatus (AOR = 0.32); HCV‐positive serostatus (AOR = 0.46); daily heroin injection (AOR = 0.73); daily crack use (AOR = 0.77); public injecting (AOR = 0.50); sex trade involvement (AOR = 0.49); recent incarceration (AOR = 0.56); and unstable housing (AOR = 0.57). Discussion and Conclusions. Our results suggest a stabilising effect of employment for IDU and socio‐demographic, drug use and risk‐related barriers to employment. There is a strong case to address these barriers and to develop innovative employment programming for high‐risk drug users.[Richardson L, Wood E, Li K, Kerr T. Factors associated with employment among a cohort of injection drug users. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
Risky injecting practices associated with snowballing: A qualitative study
Authors: WILKINS LOUISE , BISSELL PAUL , MEIER PETRA S.
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Crack cocaine injecting is associated with a higher prevalence of sharing behaviours, increased rates of hepatitis C infection and a higher likelihood of homelessness. The limited available evidence on snowballing (co‐injecting of heroin and crack cocaine) suggests that this is associated with an increase in risky injection practices. This study sets out to explore the views and experiences of a group of drug users who ‘snowball’, with a view to inform the improvement of harm reduction services for such clients. Design and Methods. This is a qualitative interview study of 18 male and female homeless drug users attending a needle exchange service in Nottingham, UK. Results. For all those interviewed, snowballing represented a communal activity which affected peer injection practices. The individual perceptions of the terms ‘sharing’ and ‘splitting’ affected the levels of concerns when snowballs were used with others. The study highlighted the importance of knowing current vaccination and screening history of injecting partners in order to manage risk behaviour when drugs are used communally. Discussion and Conclusions. Harm reduction services need to target information so it is meaningful and appropriate to those who engage in communal drug use.[Wilkins L, Bissell P, Meier PS. Risky injecting practices associated with snowballing: A qualitative study. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
Modelling crack cocaine use trends over 10 years in a Canadian setting
Authors: WERB DAN , DEBECK KORA , KERR THOMAS , LI KATHY , MONTANER JULIO , WOOD EVAN
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Crack cocaine use among illicit drug users is associated with a range of health and community harms. However, long‐term epidemiological data documenting patterns and risk factors for crack use initiation remain limited especially among injection drug users. We investigated longitudinal patterns of crack cocaine use among polydrug users in Vancouver, Canada. Design and Methods. We examined the rate of crack use among injection drug users enrolled in a prospective cohort study in Vancouver, Canada between 1996 and 2005. We also used a Cox proportional hazards regression analysis to identify independent predictors of crack use initiation among this population. Results. In total, 1603 injection drug users were recruited between May 1996 and December 2005. At baseline, 7.4% of participants reported ever using crack and this rate increased to 42.6% by the end of the study period (Mantel trend test P < 0.001). Independent predictors of crack use initiation during the study period included frequent cocaine injection, crystal methamphetamine injection, residency in the city's drug using epicenter and involvement in the sex trade (all P < 0.05). Discussion and Conclusions. These findings demonstrate a massive increase in crack use among injection drug users in a Canadian setting. Our findings also highlight the complex interactions that contribute to the initiation of crack use among injection drug users and suggest that evidence‐based interventions are urgently needed to address crack use initiation and to address harms associated with its ongoing use.[Werb D, DeBeck K, Kerr T, Li K, Montaner J, Wood E. Modelling crack cocaine use trends over 10 years in a Canadian setting. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
Factors associated with illegal substance use initiation among young students in Mexico City
Authors: BOJORQUEZ IETZA , FERNÁNDEZ‐VARELA HECTOR , GORAB ALICIA , SOLÍS CUAUHTÉMOC
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. To assess risk factors for illegal substances use initiation in a cohort of Mexican high‐school teenage students. Design and Methods. Longitudinal study of a cohort of 10th grade students, with follow up at the time of their enrolment in college (3–4 year follow up). The associations of parental educational level, alcohol abuse in the family, employment status, experiences of physical and sexual aggression, sexual initiation, emotional distress and previous legal substance use at the baseline measurement, with the initiation of illegal substance use were explored. Results. The follow‐up analysis was carried out in 21 616 at‐risk students. The incidence of substance use initiation was 7%. Male gender (odds ratio 3.86, 95% confidence interval 3.45, 4.32), a higher father's education level, sexual initiation for women (odds ratio 2.67, 95% confidence interval 1.49, 4.79] and use of legal substances at baseline were associated with risk of substance use initiation. Discussion and Conclusions. The social circumstances surrounding adolescents influence their risk of illegal substance consumption. Although the complex network of factors affecting substance use requires further exploring, young people at risk can be identified and should receive preventive attention.[Bojorquez I, Fernández‐Varela H, Gorab A, Solís C. Factors associated with illegal substance use initiation among young students in Mexico City. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
Gender differences in adolescents attending a drug and alcohol withdrawal service
Authors: DEAN ANGELA J. , MCBRIDE MICHELLE , MACDONALD ELSPETH M. , CONNOLLY YVONNE , McDERMOTT BRETT M.
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Gender differences have been reported in adult substance users, but little research has examined gender differences in adolescents presenting to treatment services. This study aimed to explore gender differences in adolescents presenting to a withdrawal service. Design and Methods. All presentations to a withdrawal service between March 2000 and September 2004 were identified. For each presentation, the following information was extracted from clinical databases: sociodemographics, drug use, risk‐taking behaviour, mental health symptoms, reasons and context of drug use. Significant gender differences identified at bivariate analysis were then incorporated into multivariate models exploring predictors of heroin use, cannabis use and sharing injecting equipment. Results. A total of 262 young people were admitted during the study period (53% male, mean age 16.8 years; SD 1.13). Bivariate analysis indicated that girls were more likely to report: being homeless, using a greater number of substances, using heroin and amphetamines, higher rates of injecting, sharing injecting equipment and using with a partner. Multivariate analysis identified that being female was an independent predictor of heroin use and that being male was an independent predictor of cannabis use. Significant predictors of sharing injecting equipment were using with a partner and current use of heroin; the effect of gender was not significant after controlling for other factors. Discussion and Conclusions.Our findings indicate that male and female adolescents presenting to a withdrawal treatment service exhibit differences in substance use characteristics. Future research should examine the role of gender in determining optimal treatment approaches in substance‐using adolescents.[Dean AJ, McBride M, Macdonald EM, Connolly Y, McDermott BM. Gender differences in adolescents attending a drug and alcohol withdrawal service. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
Alcohol as a risk factor for liver cirrhosis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: REHM JÜRGEN , TAYLOR BENJAMIN , MOHAPATRA SATYA , IRVING HYACINTH , BALIUNAS DOLLY , PATRA JAYADEEP , ROERECKE MICHAEL
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Alcohol is an established risk factor for liver cirrhosis. It remains unclear, however, whether this relationship follows a continuous dose–response pattern or has a threshold. Also, the influences of sex and end‐point (i.e. mortality vs. morbidity) on the association are not known. To address these questions and to provide a quantitative assessment of the association between alcohol intake and risk of liver cirrhosis, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of cohort and case–control studies. Design and Methods. Studies were identified by a literature search of Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsychINFO, ETOH and Google Scholar from January 1980 to January 2008 and by searching the references of retrieved articles. Studies were included if quantifiable information on risk and related confidence intervals with respect to at least three different levels of average alcohol intake were reported. Both categorical and continuous meta‐analytic techniques were used to model the dose–response relationship. Results. Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria. We found some indications for threshold effects. Alcohol consumption had a significantly larger impact on mortality of liver cirrhosis compared with morbidity. Also, the same amount of average consumption was related to a higher risk of liver cirrhosis in women than in men. Discussion and Conclusions. Overall, end‐point was an important source of heterogeneity among study results. This result has important implications not only for studies in which the burden of disease attributable to alcohol consumption is estimated, but also for prevention. [Rehm J, Taylor B, Mohapatra S, Irving H, Baliunas D, Patra J, Roerecke M. Alcohol as a risk factor for liver cirrhosis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
Models of policy‐making and their relevance for drug research
Authors: RITTER ALISON , BAMMER GABRIELE
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Researchers are often frustrated by their inability to influence policy. We describe models of policy‐making to provide new insights and a more realistic assessment of research impacts on policy. Design and Methods. We describe five prominent models of policy‐making and illustrate them with examples from the alcohol and drugs field, before drawing lessons for researchers. Results. Policy‐making is a complex and messy process, with different models describing different elements. We start with the incrementalist model, which highlights small amendments to policy, as occurs in school‐based drug education. A technical/rational approach then outlines the key steps in a policy process from identification of problems and their causes, through to examination and choice of response options, and subsequent implementation and evaluation. There is a clear role for research, as we illustrate with the introduction of new medications, but this model largely ignores the dominant political aspects of policy‐making. Such political aspects include the influence of interest groups, and we describe models about power and pressure groups, as well as advocacy coalitions, and the challenges they pose for researchers. These are illustrated with reference to the alcohol industry, and interest group conflicts in establishing a Medically Supervised Injecting Centre. Finally, we describe the multiple streams framework, which alerts researchers to ‘windows of opportunity’, and we show how these were effectively exploited in policy for cannabis law reform in Western Australia. Discussion and Conclusions. Understanding models of policy‐making can help researchers maximise the uptake of their work and advance evidence‐informed policy.[Ritter A, Bammer G. Models of policy‐making and their relevance for drug research. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
Leisure time activities that predict initiation, progression and reduction of cannabis use: A prospective, population‐based panel survey
Authors: SCHAUB MICHAEL , GMEL GERHARD , ANNAHEIM BEATRICE , MUELLER MAX , SCHWAPPACH DAVID
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Frequent cannabis consumption can lead to severe physical and mental harm. As cannabis is often consumed in leisure time, this study aimed at identifying differences in leisure time activities that predicted the severity of cannabis use. Design and Methods. In a prospective population‐based survey on cannabis use a cohort of 5025 subjects aged 13–29 years were assessed by telephone interview and followed up 3 years later. Different leisure time activities and the persons (e.g. partner, friend, sibling) the activities were spent with were analysed for the initiation, progression and reduction/cessation of cannabis use over time using multinomial and ordered logistical regression models. Results. The persons the leisure time was spent with at baseline led to a higher probability of initiation and progression of cannabis use over time than the type of leisure time activity. There also was a tendency for tobacco use to increase during the progression phase and to remain high after a reduction/cessation of cannabis use. Discussion and Conclusions. The influence of persons the leisure time was spent with was of higher relevance to most phases of cannabis use than the type of leisure time activity.[Schaub M, Gmel G, Annaheim B, Mueller M, Schwappach D. Leisure time activities that predict initiation, progression and reduction of cannabis use: A prospective, population‐based panel survey. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
The risk of psychotic symptoms associated with recreational methamphetamine use
Authors: MCKETIN REBECCA , HICKEY KARINA , DEVLIN KRISTINA , LAWRENCE KERRI
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. To determine whether recreational methamphetamine use is associated with an increased risk of psychotic symptoms. Design and Method. A cross‐sectional survey of 157 people attending dance events in Sydney, Australia. Participants were assessed for psychotic symptoms in the past year using items from the Psychosis Screen. Participants with and without psychotic symptoms were compared on methamphetamine use, polydrug use and other demographic factors. An ordinal logistic regression was used to determine the probability of psychotic symptoms by methamphetamine use and level of polydrug use. Results. Psychotic symptoms in the past year were predicted by methamphetamine use and heavier polydrug use in the past year, and a history of a psychotic disorder (schizophrenia, schizoaffective or bipolar affective disorder). After removing participants with a history of a psychotic disorder (n = 16) and adjusting for polydrug use, methamphetamine use increased the probability of two or more psychotic symptoms (indicative of psychosis risk) from 9% to 21%. There was a non‐significant increase in the risk of psychotic symptoms with higher levels of polydrug use. Methamphetamine use was typically monthly or less often (83%), and most users described their use as recreational (85%). Discussion and Conclusions. Within the context of polydrug use, recreational methamphetamine use is associated with a twofold to threefold increase in the probability of psychotic symptoms.[McKetin R, Hickey K, Devlin K, Lawrence K. The risk of psychotic symptoms associated with recreational methamphetamine use. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
The dark side of sniffing: Paint colour affects intoxication experiences among adolescent inhalant users
Authors: TAKAGI MICHAEL J. , YÜCEL MURAT , LUBMAN DAN I.
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Inhalant abuse among adolescents is a significant health concern in many countries; however, limited research has explored whether the intoxication experience differs between commonly used inhalants. The aim of the present study was to examine how exposure to different types of paints (chrome vs. non‐chrome) were experienced by adolescent users. Design and Methods. Sixteen adolescent (aged 15–19 years) regular inhalant users completed a semistructured questionnaire enquiring about their inhalant use. Participants were divided into two groups based on paint colour preference [chrome paints (n = 10) and non‐chrome paints (n = 6)] and were compared using appropriate statistical tests. Results. Relative to non‐chrome users, the chrome‐using group were more likely to report deliberately inhaling to experience altered perceptions (such as visual and auditory hallucinations). In addition, a significantly greater proportion of chrome users reported that the perceptual alterations they experienced after sniffing paint differed between paint colours, with chrome colours being associated with more vivid hallucinations. Discussion and Conclusion. While both chrome and non‐chrome users reported a comparable level of pleasure from paint sniffing, chrome paint users were more likely to be motivated by the potential to hallucinate. Our findings suggest that the type of inhalant used is an important consideration that may have relevance to clinical treatment.[Takagi MJ, Yücel M, Lubman DI. The dark side of sniffing: Paint colour affects intoxication experiences among adolescent inhalant users. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
Qualitative accounts of needle and syringe cleaning techniques among people who inject drugs in Sydney, Australia
Authors: NATHANI JAI , IVERSEN JENNY , SHYING KERRI , BYRNE JUDE , MAHER LISA
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Cleaning needles/syringes is an important second‐line harm reduction strategy, yet there is limited information on practices employed by people who inject drugs in Australia. This study attempts to identify and assess cleaning practices in terms of the techniques involved and the social contexts in which cleaning takes place. Design and Methods. As part of an exploratory qualitative study in south‐west Sydney, in‐depth interviews and simulated cleaning exercises were conducted with 12 people who inject drugs. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Open coding was used to inductively classify data into themes, and data were examined for patterns and variations in the relationships within and between themes. Results. Data indicate that cleaning and reuse of needles/syringes was common in this small sample. The most frequently utilised reagent was cool water. While all participants reported cleaning and reusing only their own equipment, none of the techniques demonstrated would have been sufficient to deactivate human immunodeficiency virus or hepatitis C virus. Discussion and Conclusions. Results suggest that even where cleaning of needles and syringes is widespread, people who inject drugs may not engage in efficacious cleaning. The combination of the complexity of current cleaning messages and a lack of accurate information about efficacious techniques are likely to contribute to poor cleaning practice. Australia could benefit from the development of a nationally consistent cleaning message; however, the evidence would suggest that this would need to be accompanied by strategies designed to simplify and disseminate this information in order to increase the uptake of efficacious cleaning methods by people who inject drugs [Nathani J, Iversen J, Shying K, Byrne J, Maher L. Qualitative accounts of needle and syringe cleaning techniques among people who inject drugs in Sydney, Australia. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
Lifetime multiple substance use pattern among heroin users before entering methadone maintenance treatment clinic in Yunnan, China
Authors: LI LEI , SANGTHONG RASSAMEE , CHONGSUVIVATWONG VIRASAKDI , MCNEIL EDWARD , LI JIANHUA
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Multiple substance use leads to greater levels of psycho‐behavioural problems, unsafe sex, and therefore a high risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases, and is also more difficult to treat. This study aims to determine pattern of lifetime multiple substance use among Chinese heroin users before entering methadone maintenance treatment clinic. Design and Methods. A survey to obtain retrospective longitudinal data on lifetime multiple substance use was conducted among 203 heroin users in two of the biggest methadone maintenance clinics in Kunming City, Yunnan province. Results. All participants used more than one substance in their lifetime. Most of them used four or more substance groups (range two to seven groups). The most common substance patterns in lifetime use were alcohol, tobacco, opiates and depressants. Approximately 80% of them had a history of simultaneous substance use (co‐use). The most common combination of co‐use pattern was heroin with depressant. Common reasons for co‐use were to get high, to experiment, to sleep and to increase the potency of other drugs. Determinants of co‐use were education, marital status and family relationship. Discussion and Conclusions. Multiple substance use is highly prevalent among Chinese heroin users. Depressants are the most common substances used in combination with heroin.[Li L, Sangthong R, Chongsuvivatwong V, McNeil E, Li J. Lifetime multiple substance use pattern among heroin users before entering methadone maintenance treatment clinic in Yunnan, China. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
Quetiapine for the treatment of alcoholism: Scientific rationale and review of the literature
Authors: RAY LARA A. , HEYDARI ANDIA , ZORICK TODD
Published: August 2010

Issues. The development of effective treatments for alcohol use disorders represents an important public health concern. Quetiapine, a multiple receptor antagonist at 5‐HT1Aand 5‐HT2A, dopamine D1and D2, histamine H1, and adrenergic α1and α2receptors, is an atypical antipsychotic medication that has recently shown promise for the treatment of alcoholism.Approach. This manuscript reviews the rationale and empirical literature suggesting that quetiapine may be useful for the treatment of alcohol use disorders, including a discussion of its putative neurobiological and biobehavioural mechanisms of action.Key Findings. The effects of quetiapine on drinking outcomes may be due to its effects on mood, anxiety and sleep, which may help alleviate protracted withdrawal symptoms and address psychiatric comorbidities often associated with alcohol use disorders.Implications. These findings have implications to treatment development for alcoholism and suggest that the scientific study of quetiapine for alcoholism warrants further resources and attention.Conclusion. Quetiapine has advanced as a potentially promising pharmacotherapy for alcoholism. Additional research is needed to more clearly ascertain its clinical utility as a stand‐alone treatment for this indication, as well as to identify patients who are more likely to respond favourably to this medication.[Ray LA, Heydari A, Zorick T. Quetiapine for the treatment of alcoholism: Scientific rationale and review of the literature.Drug Alcohol Rev2010]
Pinning down vulnerability: from narratives to numbers
Authors: Mustafa Daanish , Ahmed Sara , Saroch Eva , Bell Heather
Published: August 2010

Social vulnerability analyses have typically relied upon narratives to capture the nuances of the concept. While narratives have enhanced our understanding of the multiple drivers of vulnerability, they have had limited influence on hazards and climate adaptation policy. This is partially a function of the different needs and goals of the policy and research communities. The former prioritises generalised quantitative information, while the latter is more concerned with capturing complexity. A theoretically driven and empirically tested quantitative vulnerability and capacities index (VCI) for use at the local scale is presented to help connect vulnerability research and policy. There are four versions of the index for use in rural and urban contexts at the household and community levels. There can be an infinite number of drivers of vulnerability, but the VCI draws upon 12 indicators to represent material, institutional and attitudinal aspects of differential vulnerability and capacities.
HOW DID STATE‐OWNED BANKS RESPOND TO PRIVATIZATION? EVIDENCE FROM THE INDIAN EXPERIMENT
Authors: Ghosh Saibal
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT**:  The paper examines the response of banks to privatization. Using data on all state‐owned banks for the period 1990–2006, the findings indicate that fully state‐owned banks are significantly less profitable than partially privatized ones. The improvements in performance by partially privatized banks are, in fact, sustained after privatization. In addition, the analysis indicates that privatization improves profitability, efficiency and improves bank soundness, while lowering bank risk. While the improvement in bank risk is typically spread out over a much longer period, the progress in terms of profitability and economic efficiency typically occurs in the post‐privatization period.
COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY AS INSURANCE: THE INVESTMENT BEHAVIOUR OF NON‐PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
Authors: Bennett John , Iossa Elisabetta , Legrenzi Gabriella
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT**:  We provide a new explanation for commercial activities by non‐profit organizations whose primary concern is to supply mission output. Starting from the observation that donations to individual non‐profits are often highly volatile, we show how investment in commercial activity can constitute a form of insurance for mission activity. Although investment in commercial activity has an opportunity cost in terms of capacity to produce mission output, if donations turn out to be low the commercial revenue will enable cross‐subsidization of mission output. The equilibrium commercial investment is (weakly) positively related to the degree of risk aversion.
Terror management among Taiwanese: Worldview defence or resigning to fate?
Authors: Yen Chih‐Long , Cheng Chung‐Ping
Published: August 2010

Terror management theory (TMT) proposes that people who are reminded of their mortality should be motivated to defend their cultural worldview. Studies 1 and 2 examined whether the TMT worldview defence‐buffering effect found in Western cultures could be generalized to Asians in Taiwan. No such effect was found in the present studies. This non‐significant result was robust when either a stronger distraction task was used (study 1) or when a subliminal manipulation of mortality salience was utilized (study 2). A meta‐analysis, including 24 TMT experiments in East Asia, was also conducted (study 3). The average effect size (d = 0.11, r = 0.055) of worldview defence among these experiments was not significantly different from zero. Study 4 found that mortality salience manipulation also did not change Taiwanese participants' view of reincarnation; however, it did make them more inclined to resign to fate, suggesting that they might be using this symbolic means to defend their anxiety of death. The issue of the generality of TMT to Asians was discussed.
Pavement Management System with Real time Microprocessor‐Based Computation
Authors: COX GREGORY M. , MERRILL RAHN C. , FRONEK DONALD K.
Published: August 2010

This article is the second part of a two‐part article concerned with observing cracks on the pavement surface with very specialized microcomputer equipment mounted in a van type vehicle moving at road speeds. As one would imagine, the computing speed required to do the job is very high. In fact, to adequately handle this particular application, three camera systems, each with its own Motorola 68020 microprocessor, are required to work in parallel as the 12‐foot lane width is observed. In the first part of this article, an overview of the following technical requirements was presented [5]: 1) sensor data rate requirements, 2) hardware and software approaches, 3) pavement rating procedures, 4) system block diagram, and 5) real‐time computer algorithms.

This article will extend and update previous pavement monitoring concepts while looking at the microprocessor requirements of moving a huge amount of processed data through the system. In addition, a host microprocessor (a Motorola 68010) will be responsible for system housekeeping and formatting all of the processed data for future use. Some introductory comments about the pavement monitoring system appear again for continuity.
A Knowledge‐based Expert System for Design of Roof Trusses
Authors: ADELI H. , AL‐RIJLEH M. M.
Published: August 2010

Aknowledge‐based expert system has been developed for design of roof trusses, called RTEXPERT. RTEXPERT can advise the user on the appropriate type of the roof truss, selection of the layout of the truss (such as the pitch of the truss and number of panels), and the loading. The basis of design is the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) specification. The truss is designed for dead, live, snow, and wind loads in accordance with the American National Standard Institute (ANSI) specification. A novel part of RTEXPERT is the automatic computation of nodal forces due to various loads. The user needs to indicate only the types of the materials used as roof covering and the location of the structure in the United States. RTEXPERT automatically generates all the nodal forces. The knowledge base and explanation facility of RTEXPERT have been developed using INSIGHT 2 + expert system shell. The mathematical computations, graphic algorithms, and data file manipulation routines have been developed in Turbo Pascal. RTEXPERT has a comprehensive graphic interface for displaying the truss configuration, cross sections, loading, and deformed shape. Information about individual members is presented through multi‐window graphicstext displays. RTEXPERT can be used as an “intelligent assistant” for design of roof trusses.
Microcomputer‐Aided Evaluation of Earthquake‐Induced Permanent Slope Displacements
Authors: HOUSTON SANDRA L. , HOUSTON WILLIAM N. , PADILLA J. MANUEL
Published: August 2010

Ageotechnical engineering microcomputer program has been developed for the determination of permanent slope displacements resulting from earthquake shaking. The Newmark procedure, in which accelerations in excess of yield accelerations are double integrated to obtain displacements, has been incorporated into the program DISPLMT. Several user options are available for describing the yield acceleration function, including variation with time and variation with displacement. Screen graphics are available which allow the user to observe the down slope movements of the Newmark sliding block as they increase with time during the simulated earthquake. DISPLMT has been used to calculate the permanent movements of an earth dam using acceleration‐time histories and soil shear stresses determined from a separate analysis. Modification to the conventional Newmark procedure, by introduction of a “slip layer,” has been made in the analysis of a dam. Permanent slope displacements can be analyzed using the recommended procedure, which involves fairly simple computations that can be performed in a reasonable period of time with the exclusive use of microcomputers.
Parallel Processing
Authors: ADELI HOJJAT , VISHNUBHOTLA PRASAD
Published: August 2010

Parallel processing is appearing as a promising approach to large‐scale engineering computations. High performance can be achieved by using powerful microprocessors in parallel. The research challenge is to reformulate the problem, develop parallel algorithms, and devise new computational stratagems in order to utilize fully the capabilities of parallel machines. This article presents a review of parallel processing including various interconnection networks in multiprocessors, commercial parallel processors, and parallel programming languages and algorithms. Present applications of parallel processing in civil engineering are also described.
Knoledge‐Based Systems and Fuzzy Sets in Risk Management
Authors: KANGARI ROOZBEH , BOYER LEROY T.
Published: August 2010

An integrated microcomputer‐based knowledge system is developed for risk management in construction. The system (Expert‐Risk) applies the concepts of fuzzy set theory to evaluate the overall risk of a project. It is also integrated with various rerlational data bases that provide the system with financial and cost data necessary for bankruptcy and risk analysis. Today's construction industry involves more dynamic and construction industry involves more dynamic and uncertain planning than ever before. without professional risk management, decision makers cannot systematically approach complex problemx. The system provides a more definitive perception of the overall risk of a construction project, and a more rational basis for contingency planning and evaluation. The system allows management to focus on those risk factors which have significant impact on planning.
A Fast Buckling Analysis of Statically Indeterminate Variable‐Section Struts
Authors: GORl ROBERTO , SCHREFLER BERNHARD A.
Published: August 2010

The force method, together with the virtual work principle, is used on desktop computers for the buckling analysis of variable‐section struts. The method is based on the direct integration of the internal‐work integral. The method is applied to struts composed of a thicker midsection and of two thin endsections under axial load. Several different upper‐end constraints are considered. Such struts are used in fusion technology and in the cryogenic industry as flexible supports. Analyses appropriate to the flexible support of the toroidal field coils and of the vacuum vessel for the Next European Torus (NET) Project for the Controlled Thermonuclear Fusion Research are shown as examples.
Solving the Biaxial Bending Problem in Reinforced Concrete by a Three‐Level Iteration Procedure
Authors: WANG CHU‐KIA
Published: August 2010

This article describes a computer algorithm which will give the nominal axial load strength at given eccentricities ex and ey from the geometric center of a rectangular reinforced‐concrete column. A subroutine is first written to obtain the eccentricities ex and ey from an assigned location of the neutral axis. This subroutine is then repeatedly used to locate the neutral axis to satisfy the given ex and ey values by a three‐level iteration procedure. Once the neutral axis is located, the nominal axial load strength is simply the by‐product.
An Expert System to Evaluate Concrete Pavements
Authors: ALSHAWl M. , CABRERA J. G.
Published: August 2010

“Pavement Expert” is an expert system developed to aid in the evaluation of concrete pavements. The system is operational on an IBM microcomputer. It guides the engineer through the evaluation procedure, ensures that it is carried out adequately, and that it can be independently repeated by other engineers. “Pavement Expert” operates in two modes: dialogue and data rogging modes. The dialogue mode is controlled by a Savoir shell which controls the dialogue between the user and the system. The system makes decisions “intelligently” concerning the length of the section to evaluate, extent and severity of the observed distresses, and calculates and stores the final indices. The data logging mode acts as an intelligent data logger recording specific observed distresses. This information is presented graphically on the screen, allowing for alterations to be made. The system consists of five stages ranging from identifying the road to providing a full report on the general condition of the pavement.
Computer Adaptation of Newmark's Charts
Authors: SUTCLIFFE D.E. , SELVADURAI A.P.S.
Published: August 2010

The present paper describes the computer adaption of the classical graphical technique developed by Newmark in 1942, for the computation of the axial stresses within an elastic soil mass. The paper describes the essential features of the computer implementation procedure and presents results for ceratin specific cases in which the surface of the elastic half‐space region is subjected to uniformly distributed loads of finite extent.
Frontal Solver in C Part 1: Statics
Authors: Leung A.Y.T. , Leung Y. W.
Published: August 2010

This paper presents a Frontal solver that is tailored for use on the IBM PC/XT or PC/AT microcomputers. The program is written in C and the program development environment—turbo C—is examined. This paper also includes a thorough discussion on the various constraints and techniques employed, such as the use of dynamic variables and general memory management, in the implementation of an effecient and compact solver. A full listing of the program and a driver program are provided for those who wish to develop their finite element programs in C while treating the solver as a “black‐box.”
Improved Iterative Solution for Finite‐Element Analysis on Microcomputers
Authors: PURASINGHE RUPA , MULLEN ROBERT
Published: August 2010

This paper presents the development of an improved iterative technique for solving static finite‐element algebraic equations on microcomputers. The method is based on a projection of the residuals using a partial Choleski decomposition of the global stiffness matrix. A line search is employed to accelerate the convergence of the algorithm. A two‐step method based on different partial decomposition is developed and implemented. Efficient implementation of this technique on a small computer with no out‐of‐core storage is presented. The sample physical problems solved demonstrate the proposed method to be of advantage in microcomputer applications where computer storage is a concern.
Microcomputer Solution of Large Structural Dynamic Problems
Authors: LÉGER PIERRE
Published: August 2010

Microcomputers are currently used to solve linear problems in structural dynamics. However, realistic engineering applications require a large amount of processing operations such that computer execution time and storage requirements can become critical. It is shown in this paper that the solution of large three‐dimensional linear dynamic problems using microcomputers is best accomplished by working with a reduced system of equilibrium equations expressed in generalized coordinates derived from a new load‐dependent subspace Ritz‐transformation method instead of the classical eigensolution procedure. Numerical applications on the microcomputer earthquake response analysis of a three‐dimensional model of nearly 2000 dynamic degrees of freedom is used to illustrate the relative efficiency of the proposed solution algorithm as compared to the subspace iteration method.
Structuring Knowledge and Data Bases in Expert Systems for Integrated Structural Design
Authors: ADELI H. , CHEN Y.S.
Published: August 2010

The integrated structural design includes preliminary design, structural analysis, and the final detailed design. A knowledge‐based expert system for integrated structural design requires both symbolic processing of heuristics and experiential knowledge and numerical processing of algorithmic computations. In addition, such a coupled expert system must use existing data bases as well as a large variety of data created during a consultation with the system. Thus, considering their complex interaction, effective integration of symbolic processing, numerical processing, and data base management becomes a major concern in the development of expert systems for integrated structural design. This paper addresses this integration problem by presenting a prototype system, called FRAMEX, for design of a class of steel structures—regular multistory steel buildings. The basis of steel design is the recently developed Load and Resistance Factor Design Specification.
Optimal Pick‐Up Locations for Irregular Concrete Panels
Authors: ROSCHKE PAUL N.
Published: August 2010

Aprocedure for minimization of principal stresses produced by initial lateral lifting of precast concrete structural panels is presented. An iterative approach using Powell's conjugate direction method searches for the nearly optimal pickup locations. A penalty function implemented with a nonsequential base takes into account side‐constraint violations. A reasonably good initial guess for the design variables, which are coordinates of the pick‐up locations, is essential. Accuracy of the results is dependent on the number of finite elements. The algorithm works well for a small number of design variables. A standard finite‐element package is used for analysis on a microcomputer. Examples which demonstrate the procedure include a simply supported beam and several plates.
An Efficient and Flexible Out‐of‐Core Equation Solver
Authors: CHENG Y. M.
Published: August 2010

An efficient and flexible out‐of‐core blocked skyline equation solver together with all of the other necessary subroutines for implementation in a general finite‐element program are presented in this paper. The in‐core and out‐of‐core storages required are reduced to the minimum. The structure of the equation solver and the other subroutines are simple and clear. These subroutines are ideal for use in general computer systems, especially the popular microcomputer, in solving large, linear or nonlinear structural systems.
Inductive Learning in Civil Engineering: Rough Sets Approach
Authors: ARCISZEWSKI TOMASZ , ZIARKO WOJCIECH
Published: August 2010

The paper discusses several potential civil engineering applications of inductive systems based on the theory of rough sets. This theory is discussed briefly. An inductive system is proposed for applications in knowledge acquisition for expert systems, for problem‐solving, shallow modeling, learning about different domains, and in learning expert systems.
FRED—An Interactive Plane Frame Preprocessor
Authors: VASSILEV TODOR
Published: August 2010

The timeconsuming input preparation can be a serious drawback for computer‐assisted instruction of structural mechanics. The paper presents the logical structure, concept and features of a FRame EDitor, designed for the preprocessing of plane frames on microcomputers of the IBM PC series. An axis‐based approach is introduced as a framework for the man‐machine communication. Coordinate systems and sign conventions are avoided throughout the dialogue. Graphical input and visual feedback largely replace traditional numeric preprocessing. The dialogue follows a natural scheme. Reduced input effort, faster data preparation, and a more reliable and error‐free code are the advantages of this approach.
Computational Simulation of Composite Ply Micromechanics Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Brown D. A. , Murthy P. L. N. , Berke L.
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Artificial neural networks can provide improved computational efficiency relative to existing methods when an algorithmic description of functional relationships is either totally unavailable or is complex in nature. For complex calculations, significant reductions in elapsed computation time are possible. The primary goal of this project is to demonstrate the applicability of artificial neural networks to composite material characterization. As a test case, a neural network has been trained to accurately predict composite hygral, thermal, and mechanical properties when provided with basic information concerning the environment, constituent materials, and component ratios used in the creation of the composite. A brief introduction to neural networks is provided along with a description of the software tools and interfaces used in the project. Finally, the project results are presented.
Object Oriented Programming and Numerical Methods
Authors: Mackie R. I.
Published: August 2010

Abstract: A generally applicable mathematical model, tailored for use on a Personal Computer, as the design tool to simulate unsteady flood flow in a network of interconnected rivers has been developed and applied to the Sham Chun River along the border between Hong Kong and the People's Republic of China. The effect on the improved Sham Chun River due to the proposed river training in the River Indus, one of its tributaries, is evaluated. The one‐dimensional unsteady flow model itself is broadly applicable to a wide range of hydrologic conditions and varying field situations. It incorporates real hydraulic features including branched channels and ‘tidal flats’ flooding and drying. The time history of water stages and discharges are computed at any desired location throughout the connected essentially one‐dimensional channel network subject to initial and boundary conditions. Details are given of techniques adapted in using the computational scheme to quantify the unsteady flow condition and the means to assure an efficient numerical solution as well as to verify the accuracy of the computed outputs by subjection to carefully selected schematic simplified test cases and real prototype cases with numerical solution method is a useful predictive engineering tool in river design.
A 2‐D Finite Element Model for Unsteady Free‐Surface Flow and its Experimental Verification
Authors: Tou S. K. W.
Published: August 2010

Abstract: This paper describes the development of a 2‐D finite element model for unsteady free‐surface flow generated by rapid gate closure. The performance of the model is assessed by comparing its numerical results with those obtained from experiments conducted in a rectangular open channel. Excellent agreement is observed between the model and the experiment. For comparison, a 1‐D model is also tested and the results are found to be poor. The 2‐D model gives a more realistic description of the flow than that of 1‐D approach and the computation is less complicated than that of 3‐D approach. The finite element method is a better alternative than the method of characteristics when the problems are of 2 or 3‐D nature.