bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An Information Theoretic Approach to Predicting Software Faults
Authors: Khoshgoftaar Taghi M. , Allen Edward B. 
Published: July 2003

Software measurement and modeling is intended to improve quality by predicting quality factors, such as reliability, early in the life cycle. The field of software measurement generally assumes that attributes of software products early in the life cycle are somehow related to the amount of information in those products, and thus, are related to the quality that eventually results from the development process. Kolmogorov complexity and information theory offer a way to quantify the amount of information in a finite object, such as a program, in a unifying framework. Based on these principles, we propose a new synthetic measure of information composed from a set of conventional primitive metrics in a module. Since not all information is equally relevant to fault-insertion, we also consider components of the overall information content. We present a model for fault-insertion based on a nonhomogeneous Poisson process and Poisson regression. This approach is attractive, because the underlying assumptions are appropriate for software quality data. This approach also gives insight into design attributes that affect fault insertion. A validation case study of a large sample of modules from a very large telecommunications system provides empirical evidence that the components of synthetic module complexity can be useful in software quality modeling. A large telecommunications system is an example of a computer system with rigorous software quality requirements.
Intravenous colistin in the treatment of sepsis from multiresistant Gram-negative bacilli in critically ill patients
Authors: Markou Nikolaos , Apostolakos Haralampos , Koumoudiou Christiana , Athanasiou Maria , Koutsoukou Alexandra , Alamanos Ioannis , Gregorakos Leonidas 
Published: July 2003

Abstract
Introduction
The increasing prevalence of multiresistant Gram-negative strains in intensive care units (ICUs) has recently rekindled interest in colistin, a bactericidal antibiotic that was used in the 1960s for treatment of infections caused by Gram-negative bacilli. We conducted the present observational study to evaluate the efficacy of intravenous colistin in the treatment of critically ill patients with sepsis caused by Gram-negative bacilli resistant to all other antibiotics.

Patients and method
Critically ill patients with sepsis caused by Gram-negative bacilli resistant to all antibiotics with the exception of colistin were treated in the six-bed ICU of a trauma hospital. Diagnosis of infection was based on clinical data and isolation of bacteria, and the bacteria were tested with respect to their susceptibility to colistin. Clinical response to colistin was evaluated.

Results
Twenty-four patients (mean age 44.3 years, mean Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score 20.6) received 26 courses of colistin. Clinical response was observed for 73% of the treatments. Survival at 30 days was 57.7%. Deterioration in renal function was observed in 14.3% of 21 patients who were not already receiving renal replacement therapy, but in only one case did this deterioration have serious clinical consequences.

Conclusion
The lack of a control group in the present study does not allow any definite conclusions to be drawn regarding the clinical effectiveness of colistin. On the other hand, this drug has an acceptable safety profile and its use should be considered in severe infections with multiresistant Gram-negative bacilli.
Droperidol dropped; consultants not consulted
Authors: Reid Gavin , Hughson Mark 
Published: July 2003

Aims and MethodWe conducted a postal questionnaire survey of the practice of rapid tranquillisation among 215 consultant psychiatrists in the West of Scotland, before and after the withdrawal of droperidol by the manufacturer.ResultsOne hundred and eighty questionnaires (84% of those sent) were returned. Droperidol had been used extensively, often combined with lorazepam, for rapid tranquillisation. The main replacement suggested for droperidol was haloperidol. About half of the respondents to our survey chose to comment on the withdrawal of droperidol. More than half of the comments were unfavourable, including lack of an adequate replacement and lack of consultation with the psychiatric profession.Clinical ImplicationsThe abrupt withdrawal of droperidol, partly for commercial reasons, was regrettable. There was no time for an adequate evaluation of possible replacement medications and a lack of consultation with the profession regarding the impact on clinical care.
The Morgan Hill Earthquake of April 24, 1984—Seismological Aspects
Authors: Bolt Bruce A. , Uhrhammer Robert A. , Darragh Robert B. 
Published: July 2003

On April 24, 1984, at 21:15 UTC, a moderate earthquake occurred on the Calaveras fault in the vicinity of Halls Valley, California (epicenter 37° 19.2'N, 121° 41.9'W). The earthquake had a mean local magnitude of 6.2 ± 0.20 and a maximum Modified Mercalli Intensity of VIII. It is probably a repeat of the 1911 Coyote earthquake. The rate of seismicity from historical catalogs, compiled at the U. C. Seismographic Stations yields an average recurrence time of 160±60 years for an ML≥6.2 event occurring in a 30 km segment of the Calaveras fault. Other evidence from the repeat times of earthquakes suggests a recurrence period of 75 years for a total magnitude of 6.0 or larger.. These estimates are in reasonable agreement. A seismic moment of 1.1×1025 dyne-cm for the mainshock was estimated from broadband displacement seismograms recorded at Berkeley (Δ ≈ 79 km). The moment and the rupture area inferred from the aftershocks suggest a mean fault displacement of 30 cm. The aftershock sequence through December 31, 1984, contained four earthquakes of magnitude 4.0 or greater and the sequence b-value was 0.81 ± 0.03.
The Whittier Narrows, California Earthquake of October 1, 1987—Early Results of Isoseismal Studies and Damage Surveys
Authors: Leyendecker E. V. , Highland L. M. , Hopper M. , Arnold E. P. , Thenhaus P. , Powers P. 
Published: July 2003

Preliminary isoseismals for Modified Mercalli intensities are presented for the Whittier Narrows Earthquake. Isoseismals for intensities VI and lower are based on responses to a mail survey. Intensity VII and larger are based on a field survey of damage described in this paper. The maximum observed intensity of VIII was confined to Whittier. The shapes of the intensity contours compare favorably with the distribution of average peak acceleration data from the strong motion array in the greater Los Angeles area. The damage assessments appeared consistent with earthquake magnitude. However, the accelerations were higher than expected for the magnitude. The building classification and survey strategies developed were tested and found usable and adequate for describing damage. With further refinement this system can be used to describe damage within a limited geographical area and in a format useful for correlations with strong ground motions and the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale.
The Mexico Earthquake of September 19, 1985—The Incident Wavefield in Mexico City during the Great Michoacán Earthquake and Its Interaction with the Deep Basin
Authors: Campillo M. , Bard P-Y. , Nicollin F. , Sánchez-Sesma F. 
Published: July 2003

We used the vertical displacement records of the ground motion in Mexico City during the great 1985 Michoacan earthquake to identify the nature of the waves responsible for the heavy damage suffered by the town. The records at the different stations exhibit very similar waveshapes. A multichannel phase analysis shows the arrival, from the source zone, of a strong coherent wavetrain which represent the most of the energy incident at periods around 3 sec. We interpreted this arrival as the regional continental phase Lg. The study of other instrumental data in the period range relevant to the present investigation shows the efficiency of Lg propagation between the subduction zone and Mexico City. We have computed the response to Lg waves of a sedimentary basin whose characteristics correspond to the deep basin beneath Mexico City. The amplification reaches a value of about 5. The results obtained are in good agreement with the response of the basin to a single obliquely incident plane wave. The durations of the theoretical signals are similar to those of actual observations at sites in the hills zone and in the intermediate zone.
The Mexico Earthquake of September 19, 1985—An Empirical Model to Predict Fourier Amplitude Spectra of Horizontal Ground Motion
Authors: Castro R. , Singh S. K. , Mena E. 
Published: July 2003

We analyze Fourier acceleration amplitude spectra of 14 coastal earthquakes (5.6 ≤ Ms ≤ 8.1) recorded at a hill zone site in Ciudad Universitaria (CU), Mexico City (282 ≤ R ≤ 466 km, R= closest distance from CU to the rupture area). The observed smoothed spectra are fitted to the following model log FS(T) = A(T) Ms + C(T) log(R) + B(T) where FS is the maximum spectral value of either of the two horizontal components at period T. The coefficients A, C, and B are obtained for 18 periods (2.5 ≥ T≥ 0.2 sec). The observed spectra at CU are not reliable for most earthquakes beyond this period range. The predicted FS for the September 19, 1985, Michoacán earthquake (Ms = 8.1) is less than the observed FS for T ≥ 0.6 sec suggesting an anomalously large radiation towards Mexico City during the earthquake at these periods. This anomalous radiation is in agreement with the teleseismic evidence. FS at several sites in Mexico City (many on the lake bed zone) can be obtained from the predicted FS at CU and the known spectral ratios of these sites with respect to CU.
Past and Possible Future Earthquakes of Significance to the San Diego Region
Authors: Anderson John G. , Rockwell Thomas K. , Agnew Duncan Carr 
Published: July 2003

The potential for earthquakes that may significantly affect the San Diego, California, region is examined from the viewpoint of geology, seismic history, and strong ground motion. We have compiled the best available data on slip rates and recurrence times for all major faults in southern California and northern Baja California, identified possible fault segments that might rupture in single earthquakes and obtained repeat times for these events which are consistent with (or at least not contradicted by) trenching studies. The most important faults for San Diego's seismic hazard are the Rose Canyon fault, the Elsinore fault, and faults immediately offshore (Coronado Banks, San Diego trough). There have not been any major earthquakes on any of these nearby faults in historical time, but the geological evidence is clear that such events will eventually occur. San Diego is located on the western flank of the Peninsular Range batholith, and there is weak evidence that attenuation in this batholith might be lower than average for California. We combine the geological data with an attenuation model to obtain an estimate for the occurrence rate of various levels of peak ground acceleration in downtown San Diego from events with moment magnitude greater than about 6. We find that peak accelerations of 10% g to 20% g are expected about once every 100 years. There are considerable uncertainties in this estimate, but nevertheless, strong ground shaking from a magnitude 6.0 or greater earthquake near the populated area would not be a scientific surprise.
Correlation between Static and Dynamic Response of Model Masonry Structures
Authors: Paulson T. J. , Abrams D. P. 
Published: July 2003

The paper presents correlations between response of the same structural system subjected to either dynamic shaking or static lateral forces. Two one-quarter scale test structures were constructed with identical designs and were tested in the laboratory using two different methods. The first structure was subjected to simulated earthquake motions on a shaking table while the second structure was forced to displace through the same history at static rates using computer controlled servohydraulic actuators. Characteristics of dynamic lateral force distributions are examined first and followed by a description of techniques used for the static loading experiment. Correlations are made between observed response of the statically and dynamically tested twin structures to suggest differences in strength, stiffness and energy dissipation that may arise with each test method.
The 1983 Liege Earthquake: Damage Distribution and Site Effects
Authors: Jongmans D. , Campillo M. 
Published: July 2003

On November 8, 1983, a moderate magnitude (Ml=4.9) earthquake struck Liege (Belgium). A damage study has shown that site effects at different scales have played an important role in amplifying ground motion. On a large scale, the damage distribution has been determined by the presence of a large Carboniferous syncline beneath the city as shown by 2D numerical modeling. On a small scale, the main damage concentrations can be correlated with local superficial deposits which have amplified ground motions in the frequency range of buildings. A geophysical survey was carried out to measure the shear wave velocity of the different formations. Site response computations were made at numerous sites in order to estimate the possible amplification and to compare the results with the damage. It was shown that the spectral amplifications computed in the dominant frequency range of the buildings are consistent with the damage data. In very affected areas, 1D amplifications of 4 to 6 were obtained and in some cases 2D effects may have occurred. The Liege earthquake, taking place in the intraplate region of Northwestern Europe, presents a significant interest to other similar areas as the eastern United States.
Seismic Analysis of Base-Isolated San Bernardino County Building
Authors: Maison Bruce F. , Ventura Carlos E. 
Published: July 2003

The authors investigate the seismic behavior of an existing base isolated building and interpret its recorded response to the 1990 Upland California earthquake. They formulate a linear-elastic model that accurately represents the building during the earthquake and infer its response behaviors. Additional analyses using severe earthquake excitations demonstrate the building behavior in major events and hypothetical seismic gap pounding situations. Key findings include the following: • The Upland earthquake resulted in relatively low intensity shaking at the site, and the building did not exhibit a classic soft story effect in the isolation system. • A linear-elastic model can accurately idealize the building during this event. • Under major earthquake excitation, base isolation can lead to peak story drifts, shears, overturning moments, and accelerations that are much smaller than those of nonisolated buildings. • Pounding at seismic gaps can produce large story drifts, shears and accelerations. These peak pounding responses can be greater than those from nonisolated buildings (i.e., having no pounding).
Experiences on the Use of Supplementary Energy Dissipators on Building Structures
Authors: Martinez-Romero Enrique 
Published: July 2003

Ductility, or deformation energy, is by far the largest source of energy dissipation of structures, since normal levels of internal damping represent only a small portion of energy dissipation. However, large material deformations such as those required in building components to perform in a ductile manner, are often associated with cracking and degradation of its strength, particularly in concrete structures. The installation of some manufactured devices to critical regions of structural systems, specifically engineered to concentrate on them the largest part of the dissipated energy during an earthquake, increases the structure's overall thoroughness and improves its performance and reliability during major seismic events. This paper describes the retrofit of three buildings in Mexico City using damping devices. The size and number of these added elements are a function of the dynamic characteristics of the specific structure, the amount of previous damage, the anticipated earthquake motion imposed to the structure and the design performance level intended.
Earthquake Code for Design and Construction
Authors: Celebi Mehmet 
Published: July 2003

The first earthquake code in Turkey was enacted in 1944. Revisions were issued in 1949, 1953, 1961, 1968 and 1975. At the time of March 13, 1992 Erzincan earthquake, the seismic resistant design code in effect was the code adopted in 1975, Specifications for Structures to be Built in Disaster Areas. The code has provisions for other disasters—avalanches, landslides, floods, and fire—in addition to earthquakes. The code was prepared under the auspices of and issued by the General Directorate of Disaster Affairs of the Ministry of Public Works and Settlement (formerly Ministry of Reconstruction and Resettlement) and enacted into law by ruling of the Council of Ministers. The complete code is included in the latest issue of Earthquake Resistant Regulations: A World List, published by the International Association for Earthquake Engineering (1988). A draft of revisions to the 1975 Turkish building code is currently in the final review process. This proposed code revision was being circulated for review at the time of the March 13 earthquake.
The Architectural Heritage of Campania: Protection from and Prevention of Seismic Hazards
Authors: Pezzullo Adele 
Published: July 2003

This paper concerns the rehabilitation of historical buildings located in seismic areas, and is organized in two parts. The first part considers some of the new trends in the field of research in preservation and rehabilitation. These are elaborated in the following five-point summary: 1) Maintenance of historical buildings as an efficient means of minimizing damage from an earthquake. 2) Reduction of consolidation. The present-day policy is that of limiting “strengthening work” intervention in favor of “small and timely repairs.” 3) In-depth knowledge as a necessary premise to plan a rehabilitation project. 4) Re-evaluation of traditional techniques by incorporating modern materials 5) Preservation of the function and character of monuments in their changing life (use) and new technological needs. The second part of the paper describes examples of rehabilitation undertaken in the aftermath of the 1980 Irpinia earthquake.
Discussion of “Passive Control of Building Response Using Energy Dissipating Cladding Connections” by J. P. Pinelli, J. I. Craig, G. J. Goodno, and C. C. Hsu
Authors: Cohen Julie Mark 
Published: July 2003

The authors should be commended for their pioneering research work on structural cladding and energy-dissipating connections. This discussion has been written to help ensure that this research, which is multidisciplinary in nature, leads to practical applications. All structural engineering researchers must recognize that structural cladding design is one of the broadest building-related research topics that can be tackled. They should not focus only on topics that have roots in structural engineering alone, and thus deny the integral role of structural cladding in building design. The importance of a building systems approach must be recognized. In doing so, the role of the architect will become obvious, and a promising collaborative effort will be established. This discussion is made from the perspective of a background in structural engineering and architectural research and practice.
Dynamic Analyses of a Skewed Short-Span, Box-Girder Overpass
Authors: McCallen David B. , Romstad Karl M. 
Published: July 2003

A number of recent research studies have provided insight into the seismic response characteristics of short-span overpass bridge systems. Application of system identification techniques to measured earthquake response data for this class of bridges has indicated that the bridge superstructure, abutments and approach embankment soil constitute a strongly coupled system. The dynamical behavior of the foundation and embankment soil have a first order influence on the dynamic response of the bridge superstructure. Analysis of measured strong motion response data has also indicated that localized nonlinear behavior of the embankment soil can result in significant nonlinear global behavior of the entire system, even when the bridge superstructure remains linear. The current paper presents the results of detailed numerical simulation studies of the dynamic response of a short-span overpass bridge system. Two distinctly different modeling approaches are investigated. The first approach utilizes simple reduced order “stick” model idealizations of the bridge, and the second approach utilizes a detailed, large scale, three dimensional finite element model. The detailed model includes a discretization of the soil embankments and a simple nonlinear material model is used to represent the hysteretic soil behavior. The sensitivity of bridge response to various parameters, such as deck skew, embankment soil stiffness and soil mass, stick model modal damping values, and soil nonlinearity has been investigated. Earthquake response predictions are performed with both model types and the response computations are compared to earthquake response data measurements. The ability of the models to accurately represent the bridge seismic response is discussed, and the two modeling approaches are compared and contrasted.
A Reliability-Based Dual Level Seismic Design Procedure for Building Structures
Authors: Collins Kevin R. 
Published: July 2003

structural design, Limit design, Spectra The seismic design provisions of most building codes in the United States specify ground motion parameters for various regions of the country and provide simple formulas to determine a distribution of lateral forces for which the structure should be designed. The simple formulas typically involve the use of one or more “factors” to account for anticipated inelastic behavior of the structure, relative importance of the structure, and site soil effects. Although these code provisions are very simple to use, they oversimplify a complex problem and are based on many implicit assumptions which many designers may not appreciate. Furthermore, the reliability of the final design is not known. This paper describes the key features of an alternative seismic design procedure in which the underlying assumptions are more clearly defined and which provides a more uniform level of reliability in the final design. The procedure requires the designer to consider two levels of earthquake excitation. An “equivalent” single-degree-of-freedom model and uniform hazard response spectra are used to predict structural performance. The alternative procedure should enable designers to achieve code-specified target performance objectives for moderate and severe levels of earthquake excitation.
Standardized Experimental Testing Procedures for Low-Rise Structures
Authors: Shepherd Robin 
Published: July 2003

This paper reports the progress made, over an eighteen month period, by an ad hoc committee of the Structural Engineers′ Association of Southern California in the development of guidelines to be followed if consistent experimental investigations, representative of the structural performance of mixed material systems under strong seismic excitation, are to be achieved. Aspects covered include the issue of load or deflection control, the rate of load application, the pattern of repetitive load or displacement application, the number of components or systems to be tested and the interpretation of the results.