Standardization of A 486/33 PC Based Test of Impairment

We will construct and evaluate a PC-based test of alcohol-induced impairment that will bedistributed to research laboratories throughout the United States. We will develop a normative databasefor computerized impairment testing. The Phase l project produces a low cost, software test derivedfrom a hardware test (SEDI) with a research track record. SEDI yields reliable baselines, sensitivity tolow breath alcohol levels (BACs) and a linear dose-response relationship with BACs. The new softwarewill have application in the following scientific and commercial markets: 1) as a scientific tool in alcoholand drug laboratories; 2) as a test for evaluating and educating about the effects of drinking on drivingperformance; 3) as a procedure to evaluate the impairing effects of CNS compounds for thepharmaceutical industry; 4) as a screening procedure for employees whose occupational performanceis critical to public health, safety, or welfare. Phase II includes a baseline comparison of new and oldtests and a dose-response evaluation of the effect of alcohol consumption on new test performance.The studies will sample females and males across diverse age groups. The Phase Il software will bedistributed to nine independent alcohol/drug research centers to further standardize the test.