bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AUDIT‐C, AUDIT‐3 and AUDIT‐QF in screening risky drinking among Finnish occupational health‐care patients
Authors: KAARNE TIINA , AALTO MAURI , KUOKKANEN MARTTI , SEPPÄ KAIJA
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Primary care physicians need a brief screening instrument to detect risky drinkers. In previous studies, the three first questions of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test‐C (AUDIT‐C) and the third question on heavy episodic drinking alone (AUDIT‐3) have been shown to be almost as effective as the whole AUDIT. Also, AUDIT‐QF (the first two questions of AUDIT) can be a potential screening instrument. However, the validity of these short questionnaires has not been studied among the occupational health‐care patients. Design and Methods. Patients visiting their doctor in six occupational health clinics were asked to fill in a health questionnaire containing AUDIT. All together 759 patients participated in the study. Risky drinking was defined as having scored of≥10 for men or≥8 or more for women in the AUDIT questionnaire. Validity of AUDIT‐C, AUDIT‐3 and AUDIT‐QF were compared against the whole AUDIT. Results. Based on the whole AUDIT, 92 (24%) of the men and 33 (9%) of the women were risky drinkers. For men and women, area under the curve was relatively high for all tested questionnaires. For AUDIT‐C, the best combination of sensitivity and specificity was yielded at cut‐off point of 6 for men and 4 for women. Discussion and Conclusion. Short questionnaires perform almost as well as the whole AUDIT screening risky drinking among men and women. This is why they can be recommended for clinical use in busy settings. The cut‐off points, however, have to be tailored for gender and culture.[Kaarne T, Aalto M, Kuokkanen M, Seppä K. AUDIT‐C, AUDIT‐3 and AUDIT‐QF in screening risky drinking among Finnish occupational health‐care patients. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
Infant mortality among women on a methadone program during pregnancy
Authors: BURNS LUCY , CONROY ELIZABETH , MATTICK RICHARD P.
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. The rate and correlates of infant death in those born to opioid‐dependent women are unclear. This study aims to determine the infant mortality rate of infants born to women on a methadone program during pregnancy and to identify any modifiable risk factors. Design and Methods. A retrospective study of live births to all women in New South Wales, Australia during the period 1995–2002. Using record linkage four groups were compared: (i) live births to women on a methadone program during pregnancy who subsequently died during infancy; (ii) live births to women not on a methadone program who subsequently died during infancy; (iii) live births to women on a methadone program during pregnancy who did not die during infancy; and (iv) live births to women not on a methadone program who did not die during infancy. Results, Discussion and Conclusion. The infant mortality rate was higher among infants whose mothers were on methadone during pregnancy (24.3 per 1000 live born infants in group 1 and 4.0 per 1000 live born infants in group 2) compared with infants of all other mothers. The single main cause of death for all infants was Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. There was a higher rate of smoking among women on methadone. The findings suggest that methadone and non‐methadone infant–mother pairs have different symptom profiles, diagnostic procedures and/or different patterns of access to care.[Burns L, Conroy E, Mattick RP. Infant mortality among women on a methadone program during pregnancy. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
Problem drinking among married men in India: Comparison between husband's and wife's reports
Authors: SATYANARAYANA VEENA A. , VADDIPARTI KRISHNA , CHANDRA PRABHA S. , O'LEARY CATINA C. , BENEGAL VIVEK , COTTLER LINDA B.
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. This study compared the husband's report and wife's report of her husband's problem drinking, among residents of an urban slum in Bangalore, India. Design and Methods. The data come from a feasibility study to prevent HIV infection among at‐risk women in Bangalore. Household enumeration was carried out (n = 509) to choose 100 married men between 18 and 50 years who reported problem drinking (scores 8 and above) on the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT). Wives of these married men, considered to be at risk for HIV because of their husband's hazardous drinking, were subsequently recruited for the study (n = 100). Written informed consent was obtained; wives were asked about the drinking history of their husbands through the AUDIT‐WR (Wife's Report) developed for the present study. Results. Prevalence of problem drinking in the enumerated sample (n = 509) was high (n = 186; 37%). The husband's report and his wife's report of his problem drinking was concordant (r = 0.57–0.75) on eight out of 10 items, and the total AUDIT score. Discussion and Conclusions. The AUDIT‐WR is a reliable and culturally relevant measure of husband's problem drinking. In India, men with problem drinking are hard to reach. Therefore, proxy report of the wife may be useful when the husband is either unavailable or uncooperative for assessment.[Satyanarayana VA, Vaddiparti K, Chandra PS, O'Leary CC, Benegal V, Cottler LB. Problem drinking among married men in India: comparison between husband's and wife's reports. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
Intoxigenic digital spaces? Youth, social networking sites and alcohol marketing
Authors: GRIFFITHS RICHARD , CASSWELL SALLY
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. To examine how young people in New Zealand engage with alcohol and reproduce alcohol marketing messages and alcohol‐related branding in ‘Bebo’, a popular social networking site (SNS) on the Internet. Design and Methods. Data are drawn from information posted on approximately 150 Bebo Web pages and analysed by way of textual analysis and cyberspace ethnography. Results. Social networking sites, such as Bebo, provide young people with a digital space in which to share a range of alcohol marketing messages via peer‐to‐peer transmission. Bebo also enables youth to communicate to one another how they consume alcohol and their views of alcohol marketing messages. The information being shared by young people who use Bebo is openly provided in the form of personal information, forum comments, digital photographs and answering quizzes about their engagement with alcohol. Discussion and Conclusions. Through this sharing of information in the digital Internet environment, young people are creating ‘intoxigenic social identities’ as well as ‘intoxigenic digital spaces’ that further contribute towards the normalisation of youth consumption of alcohol. A better understanding of how youth are using the Internet to share their experiences with alcohol and engagement with alcohol‐related messages is crucial to public health research as alcohol marketing practices rapidly evolve.[Griffiths R, Casswell S. Intoxigenic digital spaces? Youth, social networking sites and alcohol marketing. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
Alcohol pouring practices among 65‐ to 74‐year‐olds in Western Australia
Authors: WILKINSON CELIA , ALLSOP STEVE , CHIKRITZHS TANYA
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Alcohol pouring practices have relevance to the validity of self‐reported alcohol consumption. However, little research has focused on older populations nor investigated relationships between volumes poured and participants' estimations of beverages in terms of Australian standard drinks. The aim of this study was to address these issues.

Design and Methods. Interviews were conducted (in participants' homes) with 844 current drinkers, aged 65–74 years, from Perth, Western Australia. Participants poured their ‘usual’ serving of alcohol into their ‘usual’ drinking vessel and were asked questions regarding the volumes poured.

Results. Older men poured drinks that were 32% larger than a standard drink (10 g of ethanol). The comparable figure for older women was 16%. However, over 25% of all men and 20% of all women indicated they would not record (in a self‐report assessment of consumption) the amount poured as one standard drink. Despite participants making corrections, men and women still underestimated amounts poured (men by 23% and women by 16%).

Discussion and Conclusions. As with younger populations, older people pour drinks that are, on average, larger than standard drinks. To increase the accuracy of self‐reported consumption, it is recommended that researchers consider pouring practices and people's perceptions of alcohol volumes poured in relation to a standard drink. Further research on this issue may reduce the discrepancy between self‐reported levels of consumption and national per capita alcohol sales.[Wilkinson C, Allsop S, Chikritzhs T. Alcohol pouring practices among 65‐ to 74‐year‐olds in Western Australia. Drug Alcohol Rev 2010]
Disaster risk reduction and ‘built‐in’ resilience: towards overarching principles for construction practice
Authors: Bosher Lee , Dainty Andrew
Published: August 2010

The emerging emphasis on disaster risk reduction has broadened the range of experts whose knowledge must be garnered to resolve complex socio‐technical challenges. This paper examines the role and position of the construction sector for addressing these concerns. Specifically, it examines the recursive nature of practices within the built environment, which can be seen as deeply ingraining fragmented approaches to the development process. These, in turn, render the industry a difficult arena within which to enact structural and cultural change. Based on a wide body of literature on resiliency a set of overarching principles are proffered to help inform efforts to overcome some of the barriers to creating a more resilient built environment. It is argued that these principles offer a point of departure for embedding resilience considerations at both project and institutional levels, although real change would demand challenging some of the conventions that currently underpin construction development.
The relationship between demographic/educational parameters and perceptions, knowledge and earthquake mitigation in Israel
Authors: Soffer Yechiel , Goldberg Avishay , Adini Bruria , Cohen Robert , Ben‐Ezra Menachem , Palgi Yuval , Essar Nir , Bar‐Dayan Yaron
Published: August 2010

Perceptions, knowledge and mitigation are factors that might play a role in preventing injury and loss of life during a major earthquake.2 Little is known about the relationships between different demographic and educational parameters and these factors. A national representative sample of 495 adults was investigated in order to determine the relationship between demographic and educational parameters in terms of the perceived threat, perceived coping, knowledge and mitigation of earthquakes in Israel. Compared to females, males perceived the threat of earthquakes to be lower (t=3.183, p=0.002), manifested higher levels of perceived coping (t=2.55, p=0.011), and had higher levels of earthquake related knowledge (t=2.047, p=0.041). We conclude that there are gender differences in perceptions and knowledge regarding earthquakes.
Revisiting Sphere: new standards of service delivery for new trends in protracted displacement
Authors: McDougal Lotus , Beard Jennifer
Published: August 2010

The proportion of people living in protracted displacement, as well as the duration of this displacement, is increasing. International humanitarian standards for services provided in protracted displacement are based on the Sphere Standards, which were formulated using evidence and experience from acute phase emergencies. However, the majority of protracted emergencies are in the post‐emergency phase. This paper discusses trends in displacement, outlines reasons why using the Sphere Standards as minimum standards of service provision in protracted displacement does not adequately meet the needs of these populations, and analyses areas where greater standards of service provision are necessary. An expansion of the evidence base regarding determinants of morbidity and mortality in protracted emergencies is needed. This, followed by a joint approach to designing new, effective standards focused on proactive policies, will allow the humanitarian community more appropriately to serve and enable the millions of people currently living in protracted displacement.
Business closure and relocation: a comparative analysis of the Loma Prieta earthquake and Hurricane Andrew
Authors: Wasileski Gabriela , Rodríguez Havidán , Diaz Walter
Published: August 2010

The occurrence of a number of large‐scale disasters or catastrophes in recent years, including the Indian Ocean tsunami (2004), the Kashmir earthquake (2005), Hurricane Katrina (2005) and Hurricane Ike (2008), have raised our awareness regarding the devastating effects of disasters on human populations and the importance of developing mitigation and preparedness strategies to limit the consequences of such events. However, there is still a dearth of social science research focusing on the socio‐economic impact of disasters on businesses in the United States. This paper contributes to this research literature by focusing on the impact of disasters on business closure and relocation through the use of multivariate logistic regression models, specifically focusing on the Loma Prieta earthquake (1989) and Hurricane Andrew (1992). Using a multivariate model, we examine how physical damage to the infrastructure, lifeline disruption and business characteristics, among others, impact business closure and relocation following major disasters.
NEW ZEALAND CREDIT UNION MERGERS
Authors: Mcalevey Lynn , Sibbald Alexander , Tripe David
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT**:  Research into the benefits of mergers in small financial institutions, in particular credit unions, is sparse. This study helps to fill this gap by analyzing recent intense merger activity in New Zealand credit unions. The major driver for these mergers was not the usual reason of attempting to increase efficiency for competitive purposes but rather enforced government action. Data envelopment analysis is used to explore changes in efficiency in merged credit unions between 1996 and 2001. Those credit unions not involved in merger activity are used as a control group. Overall, credit unions have become more efficient over the period, notably in those that undertook mergers. The Malmquist index indicates significant technological progress over the period but a slight regression in terms of efficiency.
System‐perpetuating asymmetries between explicit and implicit intergroup attitudes among indigenous and non‐indigenous Chileans
Authors: Haye Andrés , González Roberto , Ordóñez Gabriela , Bohner Gerd , Siebler Frank , Sirlopú David , Millar Andrés , De Tezanos‐Pinto Pablo , Torres David
Published: August 2010

The present research demonstrates a dissociation between explicit and implicit intergroup evaluation in the reciprocal attitudes between indigenous (Mapuche) and non‐indigenous Chileans. In both social groups, the explicit measures of attitudes towards the respective in‐group and out‐group were compared with the Implicit Association Test scores. The results indicate that the members of the low‐status minority might explicitly express a moderate evaluative preference for their in‐group but might implicitly devalue it. Conversely, the members of the high‐status majority might implicitly devalue their out‐group but might explicitly express no bias. These results are theoretically framed in terms of system justification, conventional stereotypes and motivated correction processes.
Emotional and self‐esteem consequences of perceiving discrimination against a new identity group
Authors: Meegan Cahal K. , Kashima Emiko S.
Published: August 2010

With a sample of Asian international students, the consequences of perceiving pervasive discrimination against one's in‐group were examined by experimentally manipulating perceived discrimination (pervasive vs rare) and group identification (low vs high). We report evidence that supports and integrates aspects of two contrasted models; namely, the discounting model and the rejection–identification model. Consistent with both models, the effects of perceiving discrimination on one's psychological well‐being depended on the level of group identification. Nevertheless, after reading about pervasive discrimination, low (vs high) identifiers reported less depressed affect, consistent with the discounting model. However, they also reported lower self‐esteem, consistent with the rejection–identification model.
The rise and rise of social psychology in Asia: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Haslam Nick , Kashima Yoshihisa
Published: August 2010

The growth of social psychology in Asia from 1970 to 2008 was examined through a bibliometric analysis of articles in the ISI Web of Science database that listed Asian‐based authors. The 1866 articles have appeared at an accelerating rate, and represent a rapidly‐growing share of global publications in the field. Publication trajectories of different Asian nations show the Indian first wave, Hong Kong and Japan's second wave, and China and Taiwan's third wave of growth. Trends in the rates of Asian first authorship, single‐nation authorship, and cross‐cultural research suggest that Asian social psychology is increasingly more autonomous and distinctive.
Remote Video Sensing of Highway Pavements at Road Speeds: Using the Motorola 68020 Microprocessor
Authors: COX GREGORY , CURPHEY DONALD , FRONEK DONALD , WILSON JAMES
Published: August 2010

This article presents microprocessor measurement techniques for a multi‐cameera video system mounted in a van type vehicle that will observe a 12‐foot lane of road surface. Because of the high speed processing requirement of the vision system, several 68020 microprocessors are employed to handle data and detect various cracking patterns while the vehicle is in motion at highway speeds. As the image processing system collects the data, a host microprocessor computes an instantaneous and cumulative pavement score that will be used by the operator and the Pavement Management System, PMS, for further analysis and maintence considerations. The article presents an overview of the microprocessor driven PMS using high speed hardware circuitry for real‐time processing. Development of the system is underway by the Earth Technology Corporation and Louisiana Tech University.
Creativity‐Support Systems for Planning, Design and Decision support*
Authors: MANHEIM MARVIN L.
Published: August 2010

A major objective of computer support is to increase human problem‐solving capability, and especially human creativity: creativity in all aspects of working on complex problems. To achieve this high level of synergy of man and machine requires a theory which can be used to design appropriate computer systems support. The theory presented here describes the process of working on a problem in terms of both human and computer operators changing both human and computer images of the problem. Operators are defined operationally as processes. Each process is constructed out of modules, which are executable sets of instructions for man and/or machine. A step is application of a module together with specification of input and output data; a process is a sequence of steps. In a creativity‐support system (CSS), a variety of types of modules can be provided, which allow construction of an even richer variety of operators which can support a wide range of styles of man and machine interaction. Examples are given of modules for search and for evaluation, to illustrate this variety of styles. A general‐purpose microcomputer software system (AE‐1) is described which serves as a “breadboard” for developing and using creativity‐support systems
A Parallel Givens Tridiagonalization Stratagem Using Scattered Column Decomposition*
Authors: CHANG H. Y. , UTKU S. , MELOSH R. J.
Published: August 2010

Astratagem is given to reduce a real symmetric matrix A of order n into a tridiagonal form by the Givens method on a concurrent machine where N processors are used. Although the basic algorithm is inherently serial, the concurrency can still be exploited by a special decomposition scheme: scattered column decomposition. The steps in the serial and the parallel algorithms are identified, and the execution times evaluated. Expressions for efficiency and speedup are given. The results show that the stratagem has high efficiency provided that s, the number of columns assigned to a processor, is large enough and the ratio of the time required to transmit one number between processors to the time required to carry out a floating point arithmetic operation is small enough.
Bifurcation Analysis of Multistory Building Frames
Authors: WANG CHU‐KIA
Published: August 2010

By assuming incompressible beams and columns in a multistory building frame, the frame may assume either a primary state equal to its underformed shape or a buckling mode when it is subjected to a set of primary axial forces that constitute the bifurcation loading. This article describes the theory and algorithm for a computer program by which the buckling load factor for a set of proportionate primary axial forces and the shape of the buckling mode may be obtained. It is shown that the buckling load factor thus obtained can be used to produce and effective length ratio for every column so that the Euler load of a pin‐ended column with this effective length is identical to the actual buckling load of that column in the multistory building frame.
Analysis of 2‐D Steady Incompressible viscous Flow on Microcomputers Via Vorticity‐Streamline Mixed Finite Elements
Authors: MIRZA FAROOQUE A.
Published: August 2010

A mixed, isoparametric finite element model for analysis of two‐dimensional, steady, incompressible Newtonian flows for a microcomputer has been developed. An ad hoc mixed variational principle, in terms of vorticity ω and streamline φ functions, has been used in the finite element formulation. The six‐node, isoparametric element has been employed in the computer program VISFLOW‐2D which uses the newton‐Raphson method to perform the nonlinear analysis. Computed ω and φ functions over a given domain are then used by the computer program PRESS‐2D, to calculate the pressure distribution. The unsymmetric frontal solver is used to solve the linearized equations in ω‐φ formulation and the symmetric frontal solver in the pressure formulation. A postprocessor has also been developed to plot the contours for ω, φ, and p, called CONT. This program splits each deformed or undeformed six‐node, isoparametric element into 16 three‐node triangular elements and computes the nodal values for the resulting elements before a linear interpolation is employed for plotting a contour. The procedure for analysis of steady, two‐dimensional, incompressible viscous flow was then used to solve the problem of flow around a cylinder on a microcomputer.
An Interactive Shell for Batch Programs
Authors: PUCKETT JAY A. , REASCH LARRY R. , EDGAR THOMAS V.
Published: August 2010

Many programs have been and are currently being developed in which the input files or associated data bases must be produced independently of the main program. This article describes two programs which are used to develop an interactive, menu‐driven system of input prompts which is then used to create and maintain information files for other programs. The two program system provides an easy method to develop well‐structured, interactive input programs without the high development costs required to write original code. Graphics can be developed for any input screen and a command language can be specified for data output. Two examples are provided to present an overview of the system.
Microcomputers in Teaching: Steel Design with Spreadsheets
Authors: STIEMER S. F.
Published: August 2010

This article presents a method and the results of an innovative self‐paced introduction to steel design (according to the Canadian standard CAN3‐576. 1M84) for students by describing the use of state‐of‐the‐art spreadsheets (or calcpads) with microcomputers. Spreadsheets are flexible, high‐level programming languages with which it is possible not only to program the display and calculation of formulas on a screen, but also to add explanatory text to the programs. A textbook has been developed, consisting of a set of templates, which can be modified, reduced, expanded, and refined according to the requirements of the user. A good academic background in structural analysis and a basic understanding of the particular spreadsheets are necessary. Using a spreadsheet as the basis for a design text has many advantages, the most obvious being the direct hands‐on experience the user will receive. Formulas should exist as tools to be applied directly instead of being only read and memorized. Text lines can be deleted or added to satisfy the needs of the user. Self‐paced involvement of the reader and clarity of the material are the foundations of the book's approach. When used correctly this text should become a working design tool rather than a dust collector on a bookshelf.
A Sparse Solution Algorithm with Applications to Building Frames
Authors: LEUNG A. Y. T.
Published: August 2010

An exact sparse solution algorithm specially designed for triangular block decomposition by microcomputer is presented. The algorithm is useful in multistory building frame analysis. It requires to store only the nonzero elements of the coupling stiffness between adjacent floors and minimizes unnecessary operations on zero elements. less data are needed to transfer between core and disk and less core memory is required when compared to conventional methods. Computer listing of the subroutines and numerical examples are given. A driver program is also illustrated.
Interactive Graphics and Microcomputer Modeling of Traffic Flows in Dense Road Networks
Authors: TAYLOR MICHAEL A. P.
Published: August 2010

This article describes the implementation of computers and the concepts used in the design of computer models for microcomputers. The power and usefulness of interactive color graphics displays for use with these models is demonstrated by the example of the MULATM package for evaluating traffic management proposals at the local area level. MULATM is designed for the detailed yet quick analysis of traffic movements in dense networks, using interactive graphics and CAD procedures for developing network descriptions and building traffic databases, for displaying the results of modeling studies, and viewing the contents of the database. It permits the general appraisal of traffic management plans at the local level. The use of interactive color graphics on microcomputers provides engineers with powerful, cheap and accessible tools for use in the design process. Pictorial displays demonstrate the performance of models and the transportation systems they represent far more convincingly than can numerical outputs. Communications between people and computers can be greatly enhanced, and there are consequent implications for both the productivity and quality of engineering design. Model users can find greater confidence in the application of a package, and other interested groups may also have opportunities to see the model at work.
Second‐Order Analysis of Multistory Building Frames by Marching Technique
Authors: WANG CHU‐KIA , TALABOC CARLITO P.
Published: August 2010

A computer algorithm, expressed in the BASIC language, is described to make the second order analysis of multistory building frames by marching technique. Material property has to be linear elastic, and deformation due to axial force is ignored. Two second‐order effects are considered; they are the reduction of column stiffness due to the presence of axial force, and the inclusion of the overturning moment arising from the product of the column load and the sidesway.

To minimize computer storage and running time, the marching technique is used wherein the global stiffness matrix is established one story at a time upon calling input data progressively downward beginning with the top story. Joint displacements of each story are expressed in terms of those of the story immediately below so that their values of the lowest story are obtained first. In this way, the largest inversion is of the size of the degree of freedom at any one story level. One file is used to store the intermediate information so that the joint displacements of each story, along with the moments at ends of all beams and columns in that story, may be computed progressively upward beginning with the lowest story.
An Updated Out‐of‐Core Equation Solver
Authors: HOIT MARC
Published: August 2010

An assembly method is presented to be used with out‐of‐core blocked skyline equation solvers. The equation assembly forms the blocked components of the simultaneous equations directly, while reducing input/output (I/O)to a minimum. The assembly is intended to be inserted into finite‐element codes and is ideal for microcomputer use. The memory used for both assembly and solution.
Teaching Models for Simulation and Real Time Control Operation of Urban Drainage Systems
Authors: WISNER P. , CONSUEGRA D. , SABOURIN J. F. , SCHILLING W.
Published: August 2010

This article advocates the use of ad hoc teaching programs in undergraduate courses in addition to more sophisticated models commonly used by consulting firms and agencies. Basic principles for microcomputer teaching models are briefly reviewed. Some simplified hydrologic models for teaching purposes are also described. Real time operation of existing drainage systems can also be taught using simplified schematics. A screening simulator to achieve real time control on a typical combined sewer system is described. This model is based on a set of IF THEN ELSE statements based on the programmers' judgement and understanding of the drainage system. It was found that with a proper understanding of the drainage system, simulation results can be fairly optimal as compared to those given by a more sophisticated approach such as a linear programming technique.
Computer‐Aided Design of Trusses Using TURBO PASCAL
Authors: ADELI H. , AL‐RIJLEH M. M.
Published: August 2010

This article presents interactive microcomputer‐aided design (MicroCAD) of steel plane trusses. A menu‐driven graphic‐based MicroCAD system has been developed for interactive analysis and design of statically determinate and indeterminate steel trusses using TURBO PASCAL Version 3.0 on an IBM PC with 256K of random access memory (RAM), called TRUSS2P. TRUSS2P makes extensive use of computer graphics for showing various configurations of the truss with or without joint numbering, member numbering, loading, member type numbering, cross sections of the members, and its deformed configuration under various loading conditions. Graphic manipulation capabilities of TRUSS2P are zooming, panning, scaling, rotating, shrinking, and expanding. Among the features of TRUSS2P are on‐line input modification capability, modify input menus, input error check, and automatic data generation and replication for nodal coordinates, member information, and loading on the truss. Member design information can be displayed for each member through split‐screen graphic‐text displays.
Heuristic Analysis of Bridge Trusses Under AASHTO Live Loads
Authors: ADELI H. , BALASUBRAMANYAM K. V.
Published: August 2010

In a recent article, Adeli and Balasubramanyam [2] presented a heuristic approach for analysis of bridge trusses subjected to American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) moving loads. This procedure is based on the recognition of patterns of influence line diagrams (ILDs) for various members of a bridge truss. The procedure was applied to Pratt trusses. This arricle extends and generalizes the previous work of the authors by applying it to other classes of trusses, i.e., the statically determinate K‐trusses and the statically indeterminate Parker trusses. This approach is significantly more efficient than the bruteforce method of generating the nodal load vectors due to the moving loads positioned at numerous locations along the span and performing numerous structural analyses. Thus, it is particularly suitable for microcomputers. The heuristic approach presented in this article can be easily extended to other classes of bridge trusses.
Enhancing Engineering Data Analysis Using Microcomputer Graphics
Authors: THOMPSON RUSSELL , YOUNG WILLIAM
Published: August 2010

The correct analysis of engineering data is crucial for the understanding of the subtleties of any engineering system. Incorrect analysis could result in errors and the misallocation of scarce resources. Appropriate analysis requires that the engineer has a good understanding of the character of the data. Statistical techniques that hide the structure of the data may result in the engineer arriving at the wrong conclusions. Recent developments in the statistical procedures along with computer graphics technology provide the environment and mechanism for obtaining this understanding. This paper reviews some graphical methods that aid in the understanding and presentation of engineering data. Emphasis is given to the interactions between the graphics procedures and statistical methods, and the analysis environment created by combining exploratory data analysis and statistical tests. The graphics methods are illustrated with reference to data on vehicle speed, origin‐destination, average daily traffic flows, and parking lot performance. The associated statistical procedures are descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, distribution fitting, and relationship determination.
Elastic‐Plastic Analysis of Rectangular Frames
Authors: WANG CHU‐KIA , TALABOC CARLITO P.
Published: August 2010

For a ductile material such as steel, the stressstrain curve may be taken as linear up to the yield point and then indefinitely horizontal. Under this assumption, the first‐named author has shown in 1963 that the response of a continuous beam or rigid frame under increasing loads may be traced from the beginning to collapse by a stepwise elastic analysis procedure. This procedure requires that the structure is subjected to concentrated loads only so that plastic hinges can form only at the ends of the elements which are themselves unloaded. In this paper, this restriction is removed by allowing uniform and concentrated loads to act on the elements. Consequently, a plastic hinge may form anywhere on an element, and the fixed‐end moments and the stiffness coefficients of that element must then be modified for the next stage of elastic analysis. The advantage gained is enormous because previously a uniform load has to be replaced by a number of concentrated loads and a node placed at any point where there is a concentrated load.
Contour Map Editing on a Microcomputer
Authors: WALTON D. J.
Published: August 2010

Conventional techniques for computer processing of contour maps usually require large storage capacities. Storage requirements can be significantly reduced by storing each contour line as a sequence of cubic Bezier curves. The Bezier curves can be constructed such that a continuous smooth approximation to the original contour line is obtained. This article describes a microcomputer implementation of techniques for the storage, retrieval, and editing of contour maps based on their approximation by Bezier curves.
Second‐Order Elastic‐Plastic Analysis of Multistory Building Frames by Marching Technique
Authors: WANG CHU‐KIA
Published: August 2010

In two previous papers, second‐order elastic analysis of multistory building frames by marching technique [1] and elastic‐plastic analysis of rectangular frames [2] have been dealt with. The algorithms described in those two papers are now combined into an efficient computer program for conducting the elastic‐plastic analysis of multistory building frames by marching technique. With this program, the response of a multistory building frame, subjected to uniform loads on the beams and lateral loads at the floor levels, may be traced from the service load condition to proportionate overloads until collapse through sequence of formation of plastic hinges. Because & am spans are not divided into elements in the analysis, plastic hinges are assumed to remain at the same locations once they are installed on them. Consequently, moments in beams may later exceed slightly the plastic moment capacity. It is believed that the algorithm is useful to form a basis for further investigations, such as considerations for more than the two essential second‐order effects, or for effects of semirigid beam‐to‐column connections and of axial force on the plastic moment capacity.
New Generation Microcomputers: Part I: 80386 Machines
Authors: ADELI HOJJAT
Published: August 2010

This article presents a review of new generation microcomputers using the Intel 32‐bit 80386 processor. They include ISM PSI2 Model 80, Compaq Deskpro 386, Kaypro 386, ALR Access 386, and Tandy 4000. Some of the powerful 16‐bit 80286‐based machines introduced into the market recently are also reviewed. They include the IBM PS/2 Models 50 and 60 and Compaq Portable III.
A Heuristic Approach for Interactive Analysis of Bridge Trusses under Moving Loads
Authors: ADELI H. , BALASUBRAMANYAM K. V.
Published: August 2010

A heuristic approach is presented for interactive analysis of statically determinate and indeterminate bridge trusses subjected to moving loads such as the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) specifications live loads. These loads consist of two‐axle truck loading, two‐axle truck plus one‐axle semitrailer loading, and uniform lane loading. The procedure is based on using the information about the shape of the influence line diagrams (ILDs) for members of a truss. This information may be obtained through numerical experimentation for any given type of truss. A methodology is presented for classifying the ILDs for member axial forces of a bridge truss. The procedure is applied to Pratt trusses. Heuristic rules are developed for finding the maximum compression and tensile forces in the members of a Pratt truss based on its characteristic influence line diagrams and the type of the AASHTO live load. The procedure presented in this article results in substantial savings in structural analysis computations, and is specially suitable on microcomputers in an interactive environment.
Microcomputer‐Aided Instruction of Structural Steel Design
Authors: ADELI HOJJAT
Published: August 2010

An innovative approach is reported for teaching structural steel design in a civil engineering undergraduate curriculum. It is based on the interactive environment and graphic capabilities of inexpensive microcomputers. Ten BASIC interactive microcomputer‐aided design programs have been developed and used in a senior‐level structural steel design course at the Ohio State University. The approach of interactive design and the interactive microcomputer‐aided design programs make the learning of structural steel design more exciting and result in more effective training of future designers. Students can gain experience and develop insight in structural design while they are still in an academic environment.
Automation of Knowledge Organization and Acquisition
Authors: ZHANG X. J. , YAO J. T. P.
Published: August 2010

In this paper, an ongoing investigation on the development of SPERIL Systems, which are knowledge‐based expert systems for damage assessment of existing structures, is described. The development of a new version, SPERIL‐3, is presented and the motivations for the development of this system are discussed. Specifically, knowledge organization and knowledge acquisition in this system are emphasized. The automation of knowledge acquisition is presented and discussed.

In this paper, an ongoing investigation on the development of SPERIL systems, which are knowledge‐based expert systems for damage assessment of existing structures, is described. The development of a new version, SPERIL‐3, is presented and the motivations for the development of this system are discussed. Specifically, knowledge organization and knowledge acquisition in this system are emphasized. The automation of knowledge acquisition is presented and discussed.
Logistics Decisions Following Urban Disasters
Authors: HOBEIKA ANTOINE G. , ARDEKANI SIAMAK A. , HAN DAVID L.
Published: August 2010

This work describes the development and functions of an IBM‐compatible real‐time microcomputer software to be used as a decision tool in coordinating and carrying out transportation‐related activities in the aftermath of urban disasters such as earthquakes. The package incorporates the needs and experiences of response organizations involved in the postearthquake transportation‐related operations in Mexico City. A number of transportation needs recognized as vital in operations related to emergency preparedness, response, and return to normalcy have been addressed. The software is named the “Transportation Emergency Decision Support System” (TEDSS) and includes the following features: 1) A graphical network‐editing capability to modify the street network in terms of geometric and operational changes which could take place, including closed street links, changes in number of lanes, changes in travel direction of streets, cordoned off areas, parking‐regulation changes, changes in transit routes, etc. 2) An emergency vehicle‐dispatch algorithm to determine the best route to be taken from an origin to an incident point, considering all the changes which have taken place in the street system geometry and operational conditions. 3) A street clean‐up prioritization scheme to assign priorities for the clean up of closed street links in terms of the amount of resources needed for the cleanup of a closed link as well as the degree of importance of each closed link in search and rescue operations and return to normalcy.
Two‐Level Finite‐Element Method for Thin Plates Subject to Concentrated Loads
Authors: LEUNG A. Y. T. , WONG S. C.
Published: August 2010

A thin plate subject to concentrated loads (forces or moments) is customarily analyzed either by fine finite‐element mesh or by singular elements. This paper recommends an alternative method using conventional finite elements with fine mesh and reducing the number of unknowns by interpolating the nodal displacements by means of the shape functions associated with the previously mentioned singular elements. New element matrices need not be generated and integration is avoided completely. Accurate results under the point load are achieved by a substantially reduced number of unknowns. Both concentrated forces and moments are considered. Accurate superelements can be formed to study plate systems. The procedure presented in this article results in substantially reduced computational effort, and is therefore specially suited for use on microcomputers.
Determination of Principal Axes ot Truss Towers
Authors: PIETRZAK JACEK
Published: August 2010

The paper is concerned with the determination of the principal axes of geometrically non linear truss towers by a microcomputer. A knowledge of the principal axes may be used at the planning and design stage to advantageously orient the tower with respect to the dominant wind direction. The principal axes may also be used for the assessment of the truss tower's sensitivity to wind direction. A scale for the evaluation of this sensitivity is proposed in the paper. The sensitivity of a structure to lateral load direction depends on the structure's geometry and topology. An example is presented that shows how sensitivity of a space truss can the affected by the by the modifications of its geometry and topology.
Formatted Spreadsheets for Engineers
Authors: STIEMER S. F. , LO DAVID
Published: August 2010

Spreadsheets are powerful programs for personal computers, and in many respects they have a clear edge over established programming languages such as FORTRAN or BASIC for simple day‐to‐day engineering applications. Modern spreadsheets such as lotus 1–2‐3(TM), Excel (TM), Symphony(TM), Jazz (TM), Quattro (TM), etc. are very easy to learn and they can be used for a multitude of tasks including desktop calculation, text editing, data base functions and graphics. The one decided advantage of spreadsheets is that they are totally interactive; a user can use spreadsheets directly without having to worry about data files and output files. The ideas explained in this paper are applicable to most commercially available spreadsheets with the particular examples shown applicable to Lotus 1–2‐3. The technique of “formatted” worksheets has been developed and successfully used by the author in teaching and in his professional work for several years. A thorough knowledge of spreadsheets is imperative for the efficient application of this technique. Some practical ideas plus a set of macros will be shown.
Temperature and Vapor Pressure Gradients Across Wall Assemblies Using Microcomputer Graphics
Authors: FAZIO P. , GoWRI K.
Published: August 2010

An educational microcomputer graphics program for predicting the temperature and vapor pressure gradients across external wall assemblies is developed to assist designers in evaluating the performance and selection of materials. A large number of constructional types and combinations of materials are available to satisfy the various functional requirements such as structural, thermal, acoustic, etc., of an external wall. This paper presents the methodology used in organizing the material properties information in a data base within a general purpose drafting program for diagnosing the problem of condensation within the wall assembly. Specifying the thickness and the material properties used for structure, insulation, cladding, etc., one can obtain the variation in temperature across the different layers of the wall for a set of given indoor and outdoor design temperatures. The condensation problem in the wall assembly can be investigated by knowing the relative humidity of the indoor and outdoor environment. Many different wall types such as cavity walls, walls with interior and exterior insulation, metal and timber clad walls can be analyzed for a number of different combinations of materials and various thicknesses. AutoLISP in the AutoCAD environment is used for the material properties data base, calculations, and drafting. A program of this kind is an effective tool for the students of building science in the analysis of external walls for design and retrofitting, and understanding the principles involved.
An Expert System to Analyze Hazardous Intersections
Authors: SPRING GARY S.
Published: August 2010

The detailed analysis of highway locations that have been identified as hazardous within the framework of a state Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) requires a great deal of time and money to perform. Given the limited resources available to state highway agencies, whose task it is to perform such analyses, it seems a worthwhile effort to automate this “location analysis.” And, given the nature of location analysis problems, which are based on judgement rather than mathematical models, it was known a prior; that conventional automation techniques were not appropriate for this application. A prototype microcomputer‐based expert system, which performs location analysis, was developed to assess the feasibility of applying this new technology to location analysis problems. This paper describes the prototype system, and presents a brief discussion of some of the issues that were addressed when building the system.
An Expert System for Evaluating Multicriteria Transportation Networks
Authors: LI HAN‐LIN
Published: August 2010

An expert system is developed for evaluating transportation network improvement alternatives with multicriteria. The advantages of this system are 1) integrating data, transportation models, and evaluation methods within one framework; 2) applying multicriteria evaluation methods and choice rules for these methods onto various evaluation environments; and 3) providing a friendly man‐machine interface. First, a transportation network improvement evaluation problem is specified. Then, an expert system is formulated. The relative data bases, model bases, and knowledge bases are described. Finally, a brief example is used to demonstrate the practicality of the system. The whole program is an integration of LOTUS 123, Turbo PROLOG and C language programs on an IBM personal computer.