R. S. GOVINDARAJU and ARAMACHANDRA RAO School of Civil Engineering Purdue University West Lafayette, IN. , USA Background and Motivation The basic notion of artificial neural networks (ANNs), as we understand them today, was perhaps first formalized by McCulloch and Pitts (1943) in their model of an artificial neuron. Research in this field remained somewhat dormant in the early years, perhaps because of the limited capabilities of this method and because there was no clear indication of its potential uses. However, interest in this area picked up momentum in a dramatic fashion with the works of Hopfield (1982) and Rumelhart et al. (1986). Not only did these studies place artificial neural networks on a firmer mathematical footing, but also opened the dOOf to a host of potential applications for this computational tool. Consequently, neural network computing has progressed rapidly along all fronts: theoretical development of different learning algorithms, computing capabilities, and applications to diverse areas from neurophysiology to the stock market. . Initial studies on artificial neural networks were prompted by adesire to have computers mimic human learning. As a result, the jargon associated with the technical literature on this subject is replete with expressions such as excitation and inhibition of neurons, strength of synaptic connections, learning rates, training, and network experience. ANNs have also been referred to as neurocomputers by people who want to preserve this analogy.

Zusammenfassung
, USA Background and Motivation The basic notion of artificial neural networks (ANNs), as we understand them today, was perhaps first formalized by McCulloch and Pitts (1943) in their model of an artificial neuron.

Inhalt

1. Effective and Efficient Modeling for Streamflow Forecasting.- 2. Streamflow Forecasting Based on Artificial Neural Networks.- 3. Real Time Forecasting Using Neural Networks.- 4. Modular Neural Networks for Watershed Runoff.- 5. Radial-Basis Function Networks.- 6. Artificial Neural Networks in Subsurface Characterization.- 7. Optimal Groundwater Remediation Using Artificial Neural Networks.- 8. Adaptive Neural Networks in Regulation of River Flows.- 9. Identification of Pollution Sources via Neural Networks.- 10. Spatial Organization and Characterization of Soil Physical Properties Using Self-Organizing Maps.- 11. Rainfall Estimation from Satellite Imagery.- 12. Streamflow Data Infilling Techniques Based on Concepts of Groups and Neural Networks.- 13. Spatial Analysis of Hydrologic and Environmental Data Based on Artificial Neural Networks.- 14. Application of Artificial Neural Networks to Forecasting of Surface Water Quality Variables: Issues, Applications and Challenges.- 15. Long Range Precipitation Prediction in California: A Look Inside The Black Box of a Trained Network.