On the Rotational Analysis of the Ground Vibrational State of CH3D Molecule

Three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (3D-QSAR) models have been developed using comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) on a large data set (118 compounds) of diverse cyclic urea derivatives as protease inhibitors against the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). X-ray crystal structures of HIV-1 protease bound with this class of inhibitors were used to derive the most probable bioactive conformations of the inhibitors. The enzyme active site was used as a constraint to limit the number of possible conformations that are sterically accessible. The test sets have been created keeping in mind structural diversity as well as the uniform simple statistical criteria (mean, standard deviation, high and low values) of the protease inhibitory activities of the molecules compared to the training sets. Multiple predictive models have been developed with the training sets (93 compounds in each set) and validated with the corresponding test sets (25 compounds in each set). All the models yielded high predictive correlation coefficients (q2 from 0.699 to 0.727), substantially high fitted correlation coefficients (r2 from 0.965 to 0.973), and reasonably low standard errors of estimates (S from 0. 239 to 0.265). The steric and electrostatic effects have approximately equal contributions, 45% and 55% (approximately), respectively, toward explaining protease inhibitory activities. This analysis yielded models with significant information on steric and electrostatic interactions clearly discerned by the respective coefficient contour plots when overlapped on the X-ray structure of the HIV-1 protease. The HINT CoMFA study revealed significant contribution of hydrophobicity toward protease inhibitory activity. The 3D visualization technique utilizing these contour plots as well as the receptor site geometry may significantly improve our understanding of the inhibitor-protease (HIV-1) interactions and help in designing compounds with improved activity.     

The effect of correct response location on the difficulty level of multiple-choice questions.

The influence of position response sets on a multiple-choice achievement test was investigated. Data on 434 students were obtained from 4 alternate test forms of 100 items each. The arrangement of correct choices and distractors was randomized throughout the test by a scheme which allowed each position an equal number of correct choices. The correct choice for each item appeared in a different position on each of the forms. Results indicate that objective multiple-choice tests are relatively free of position preferences. With this type of test it appears that position response sets are negligible and certainly not a significant source of invalidity. It is suggested that the position of the most plausible distractor more logically accounts for any significant response bias than does a position preference. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Psychopathy and the DSM-IV criteria for antisocial personality disorder.

The Axis II Work Group of the Task Force on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) has expressed concern that antisocial personality disorder (APD) criteria are too long and cumbersome and that they focus on antisocial behaviors rather than personality traits central to traditional conceptions of psychopathy and to international criteria. R. D. Hare et al describe an alternative to the approach taken in the DSM-III—Revised (DSM-III—R; American Psychiatric Association, 1987), namely, the revised Psychopathy Checklist. The authors also discuss the multisite APD field trials designed to evaluate and compare 4 criteria sets: the DSM-III—R criteria, a shortened list of these criteria, the criteria for dyssocial personality disorder from the 10th edition of the International Classification of Diseases (World Health Organization, 1990), and a 10-item criteria set for psychopathic personality disorder derived from the revised Psychopathy Checklist. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Directional Properties of Cold Rolled Non-oriented Electrical Steel Sheets

Applications of cold rolled non-oriented (CRNO) electrical steels demand uniform magnetic property in all directions. The objective of the present study was to investigate the magnetic properties of CRNO steel in different directions. Four different sets of samples were made from CRNO steel sheets—(1) samples along the rolling direction, (2) samples at 30° to the rolling direction, (3) samples at 60° to the rolling direction and (4) samples at 90° to the rolling direction. The textural and magnetic properties were investigated using standard techniques. X-ray diffraction and electron backscattered diffraction were used for bulk- and micro-texture measurements respectively. Single sheet tester was used for core loss and magnetic permeability measurements. The results showed different textural and magnetic properties in all the CRNO samples. However, the properties were always better in rolling direction where the texture was more.     

Does the choice of mammoplasty pedicle influence the shape of reduced the reduced-sized breast?

Thirty seven patients with breast hypertrophy were restrospectively reviewed with a mean follow-up of 2 years. Reduction mammoplasty was performed with 3 different pedicles (superior, inferior and both) involving a glandular resection of a least 500 g on each side in all cases. The results were evaluated according to both objective and subjective criteria. The choice of pedicle had a considerable influence on the results. The vertical limb usually increased with time (months), although its intraoperative length was 5 cm. The increasing length of the vertical limb varies according to the type of pedicle chosen. The mean length increase was 1.52 cm; 4.18 cm; 4.15 cm for superior, inferior, and both pedicles respectively. The different increase was statistically significant (p < 0.001) when the technic involving a superior pedicle was compared to a technic involving an inferior pedicle. No statistically significant difference was observed between technics using the inferior and both pedicles. A superior pedicle technic entails the lowest increase of the vertical limb length which in turns leads to better long-term cosmetic results.     

Design of experiments to maximize power relative to cost.

Relationships of power of (Fisher) F tests to expected mean squares, E(MS), in the analysis of variance is discussed. While components of variance in the E(MS) are largely a function of nature, the coefficients associated with them are matters of experimental design. Frequently a different cost is associated with each type of experimental unit represented by the different coefficients. It is possible to maximize power relative to cost by optimal allocation of available resources among various types of experimental units—for example, numbers of Ss, duplicate measures, replicates, etc. A simple index of relative power involving the ratio of the estimated F ratio to F alpha is proposed as useful in choosing the allocation of resources most likely to yield significant results. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Criterion validity of objective and projective dependency tests: A meta-analytic assessment of behavioral prediction.

A meta-analysis of published studies in which scores on objective (i.e., self-report) or projective measures of interpersonal dependency were used to predict some aspect of dependency-related behavior revealed that validity coefficients for projective tests (number of comparisons=32) were generally larger than validity coefficients for objective tests (number of comparisons=54). The relationships of setting in which data were collected, source of behavioral ratings, and participant classification method on observed test score–behavior correlations were also assessed. Implications of these findings for use of objective and projective dependency measures in clinical, laboratory, and field settings are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

A reexamination of the WAIS—R factor structure.

The factor structure of Wechsler's Adult Intelligence Scale—Revised (WAIS—R) has been a subject of controversy since the instrument was first published. We performed a series of restricted factor analyses on the 9 cohorts of the WAIS—R standardization sample in an effort to investigate the structure of this instrument. Several indices of fit were used including (a) the likelihood ratio test statistic, chi-square; (b) the LISREL Goodness of Fit Index; (c) the normed-fit index, with both a null and informed baseline; (d) the rescaled Akaike and Schwartz criteria; and (e) the root mean square residual. Results indicated that a 3-factor model accounts best for the relations among the 11 WAIS—R subtests in 8 of the 9 standardization cohorts. The 3 factors correspond to the Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Organization, and Memory/Freedom From Distractibility factors that have been identified in the WAIS. Factor comparison procedures were used to test the generalizability of this structure in psychiatric and medical samples. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Using just noticeable differences to interpret test scores.

This study explored the value of obtaining a just noticeable difference (JND) for a test—the difference in scores needed before observers detect a difference in examinees' behavior—as a means of interpreting the practical meaning of scores. Classical psychophysical methods were adapted and applied to the scores of foreign teaching assistants (TAs) on an achievement test, the Test of Spoken English (TSE), and the ratings for English proficiency that the TAs received from their students. The JND for the TSE scores was substantial, as large as the standard deviation of the scores and much larger than the standard error of measurement and guidelines for the d index of effect size for mean differences, suggesting that both sets of standards may highlight score differences that are not practically significant. This study demonstrates the applicability of JNDs for evaluating scores on educational and psychologists' tests. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Applicability of the single-breath carbon monoxide diffusing capacity in a Norwegian Community Study

The test of single-breath diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) has been widely used in population surveys. However, little is known about the effect of meeting or failing to meet the criteria for acceptability of this test. The American Thoracic Society (ATS) recommends a breathholding time of 9 to 11 s, two measurements within +/- 10% or 3 ml CO(STPD)/min/mm Hg of the average DLCO, and an inspiratory vital capacity (IVC) of at least 90% of the largest previously measured forced vital capacity (FVC) as criteria for this test. The objective of the present study was to examine the extent to which these criteria were met in a community study. To do this, a random sample of 3,740 persons, aged 15 to 70 yr, of the general population of the city of Bergen and 11 surrounding municipalities on the southwest coast of Norway were enrolled in a two-phase cross-sectional study. In the second phase, a stratified sample (n = 1,512) of the respondents to the postal questionnaire used for recruitment for the study (n = 3,370) were invited to a clinical and respiratory physiologic examination that included the DLCO test. The attendance rate was 84% (1,275 of 1,512). In the examination, all subjects were able to maintain a breathholding time of 9 to 11 s, and 98% had two DLCO values within +/- 10% or 3 ml CO(STPD)/min/mm Hg of the average DLCO. The criterion of an IVC of at least 90% of FVC in the two tests was met by 68% of the subjects. Younger age was an independent predictor of failure to meet the required criteria. Thus, only two-thirds of the participants fulfilled all of the ATS criteria for the DLCO test, the main reason for failure being an IVC of less than 90% FVC. This should not necessarily lead to the exclusion from further analysis of those failing to meet this criterion.     

UCS intensity and instructional set in classical eyelid conditioning: Discrimination conditioning and signal-detection analysis.

Conducted discrimination eyelid conditioning at 2 UCS intensities under inhibitory, neutral, and facilitatory instructional sets, in a experiment involving 144 undergraduates in 6 groups. Instructional set yielded receiver operating characteristic curves that were reasonably straight lines on a normal deviate plot. The tentative conclusion from signal-detection theory of an equal discriminability function across instructional sets was contrasted with 4 indices of discrimination, indicating significant but mutually contradictory changes in discrimination as a function of instructional set. Discrimination differences were produced by UCS intensity, particularly under the neutral instructions. (French summary) (16 ref.) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Effects of self-study for coachable test item types.

Conducted a study to provide further information on the susceptibility to special preparation of 3 Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) analytical item types, determine the efficacy of self-study test familiarization materials for these item types, and to ascertain the effects of several different components of special preparation. Various sets of test preparation materials were mailed to random samples of a total of 6,600 GRE candidates approximately 5 wks before the test administration. About half of the candidates were encouraged to study the materials. Between-groups comparisons of subsequent GRE scores confirmed the susceptibility to special preparation of 2 analytical item types—analysis of explanations and logical diagrams—and suggested little effect on 2 subtypes of a 3rd analytical time type (analytical reasoning). Evidence that candidates can undertake effective self-preparation for "coachable" item types was provided, and some components of test preparation seemed more effective than others. Results strongly suggest that being engaged in some preparation, regardless of the particular kind, is conducive of successful performance on complex item types. (22 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

The efficacy of Ginkgo biloba on cognitive function in Alzheimer disease

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of treatment with Ginkgo biloba extract on objective measures of cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer disease (AD) based on formal review of the current literature. METHODS: An attempt was made to identify all English and non-English-language articles in which G. biloba extract was given to subjects with dementia or cognitive impairment. Inclusion criteria for the meta-analysis were (1) sufficiently characterized patients such that it was clearly stated there was a diagnosis of AD by either Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Revised Third Edition, or National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke-Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Association criteria, or there was enough clinical detail to determine this by our review; (2) clearly stated study exclusion criteria, ie, those studies that did not have stated exclusions for depression, other neurologic disease, and central nervous system-active medications were excluded; (3) use of standardized ginkgo extract in any stated dose; (4) randomized, placebo-controlled and double-blind study design; (5) at least 1 outcome measure was an objective assessment of cognitive function; and (6) sufficient statistical information to allow for meta-analysis. RESULTS: Of more than 50 articles identified, the overwhelming majority did not meet inclusion criteria, primarily because of lack of clear diagnoses of dementia and AD. Only 4 studies met all inclusion criteria. In total there were 212 subjects in each of the placebo and ginkgo treatment groups. Overall there was a significant effect size of 0.40 (P<.0001). This modest effect size translated into a 3% difference in the Alzheimer Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subtest. CONCLUSIONS: Based on a quantitative analysis of the literature there is a small but significant effect of 3- to 6-month treatment with 120 to 240 mg of G. biloba extract on objective measures of cognitive function in AD. The drug has not had significant adverse effects in formal clinical trials but there are 2 case reports of bleeding complications. In AD, there are limited and inconsistent data that preclude determining if there are effects on noncognitive behavioral and functional measures as well as on clinician's global rating scales. Further research in the area will need to determine if there are functional improvements and to determine the best dosage. Additional research will be needed to define which ingredients in the ginkgo extract are producing its effect in individuals with AD.     

Comparison of factor structures and criterion-related validity coefficients for two measures of personality based on the five factor model.

The factor structure and criterion-related validity for 2 types of personality measures that are based on 5 factor models were studied. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to compare a 5 versus 6 factor model in an applied setting. In addition, criterion-related validity coefficients were examined for the 2 inventories. Two Big Five measures were used—1 was an adjective-based bipolar inventory and the other was a questionnaire (NEO-Personality Inventory; PI)—to shed light on the relationships between inventory characteristics, factor structure, and criterion-related validity. The sample consisted of 423 flight attendant trainees. Results indicated that the 6 factor model provided a better fit for both measures compared with the 5 factor model. Scales from the NEO-PI were significantly correlated with measures of training success, whereas scales from the bipolar inventory were not. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Factors influencing sexual performance in male rhesus monkeys.

Describes a 5-yr retrospective study of the sexual behavior of 8 adult rhesus monkeys showing that sexual vigor declined over the years but testosterone levels in peripheral vein plasma did not. Two prospective experiments were carried out on these males during the 6th yr: (a) The 4 poorest performers were injected daily for 28 days with testosterone propionate (1 mg/kg). There was no significant increase in level of performance, and behavior was not correlated with plasma levels of testosterone either before or 24 hrs after the last hormone injection. (b) All 8 males were exposed to novel nonspecific sensory stimulation during tests of sexual behavior. Eight different adult male rhesus strangers—present in the room but not in the test cage—were used as stimuli, one for each experimental test. Sexual behavior during experimental and control tests did not differ. (44 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

The scalability of behavioral expectation scales as a function of developmental criteria.

Conducted a scalogram analysis of the items on behavioral expectation scales (BES) to test the assumption that such scales are unidimensional and cumulative. The effects of varying developmental criteria on the scalability of BES were also examined. BES items developed for faculty evaluation were randomly ordered on a checklist and presented to 48 undergraduates. The reproducibility coefficients of the original scales ranged from .65 to .81. Analyses indicated that higher coefficients resulted from a free ordering of items or elimination of items on the basis of applying a more stringent standard deviation criterion. Reallocation percentage agreement did not affect reproducibility. Scalogram analysis is suggested as an addition to BES developmental procedures. (15 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Enhancing a sense of agency through career planning.

Tested the effectiveness of a program for parents to help their adolescent sons and daughters develop a greater sense of agency regarding a career. In a pretest–posttest control group design involving 39 families in the experimental group and 25 families in a wait-listed control group, a multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) with repeated measures was used to test improvement on 6 variables concerned with career and a sense of agency. The MANOVA yielded a significant effect for groups over time. ANOVA with repeated measures showed that 4 of 6 univariate tests were also significant. Through career planning with a parent, adolescents in Grade 12 showed a greater career certainty, less indecision, more career salience, and stronger ego identity. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Disguise and the structured self-report assessment of psychopathology: I. An analogue investigation.

Explored the utility of disguise in structured self-report assessments of psychopathology in 3 experiments with 370 university students. Exp I used items from the Basic Personality Inventory (BPI); Exp II used the BPI, the Desirability scale of the Personality Research Form—Form E, and 4 criterion measures; and Exp III used 2 of the criterion measures and the BPI. Data indicate that under normal test-taking circumstances, the use of disguised test items was not advantageous. This relationship, however, was moderated by a number of dimensional parameters. When faking response sets in terms of desirability was induced, the use of disguised test item content was not useful. Data are interpreted in terms of the various strategies of test construction underlying the assessment of psychopathology. Results support a rational strategy of test construction emphasizing the use of relevant test item content. It is concluded that, in structured self-report assessments, the most valid results may be obtained through the use of direct questions with cooperative test respondents. (43 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)