Memory codes and episodes in models of word identification: A reply to Johnston, van Santen, and Hale.

Proposes that the activation model of identification benefits for repeated words and pseudowords proposed by J. C. Johnston et al (see record 1986-11005-001) is a variant of the present authors' (see record 1986-03032-001) code/episode model, which was used to explain the temporary and long-lasting effects of repetitions. The X and Y factors of Johnston et al may reflect the operation of episodic memory traces and codification, respectively. (15 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Building permanent memory codes: Codification and repetition effects in word identification.

Three experiments, with 46 university students, investigated the memory processes that underlie 2 phenomena in threshold identification: word superiority over pseudowords and the repetition effect (a prior presentation of an item facilitates later identification of that item). Codification (i.e., the development of a single memory code that can be triggered even by fragmented input information) explains the faster and more accurate identification of words than pseudowords. The present studies traced the development and retention of such codes for repeated pseudowords and examined the growth and loss of the repetition effect for both pseudowords and words. After approximately 5 prior occurrences, words and pseudowords were identified equally accurately in 2 types of threshold identification tasks, suggesting that codification had been completed for pseudowords. Although the initial word advantage disappeared, the accuracy of identification still increased with repetitions. The facilitation caused by repetition was not affected much by spacing within a session, but it dropped from day to day and disappeared after a delay of 1 yr. Results suggest an episodic basis for the repetition effect. After 1 yr, performance was equal for old pseudowords and new and old words: All these levels were superior to that for new pseudowords, suggesting that the learned codes for pseudowords are as strong and permanent as the codes for words. A model of identification is presented in which feedback from old codes and episodic images in memory facilitates better processing. (63 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Episodic and lexical contributions to the repetition effect in word identification.

Conducted 5 experiments (1 in 2 parts) with undergraduates (N?=?198) to study the repetition effect (RE); this term refers to the finding that the speed and accuracy of naming a visually presented word is enhanced by a single prior presentation of the word. Procedures are described in detail, and the findings of the experiments are compared and discussed. A model was developed that outlines the relative contributions to the RE in word and nonword identification that are made (a) by episodic traces for particular events and (b) by unitized representations of words in semantic memory. A prominent role in the model is played by the unitization that characterizes identification of words and is missing for nonwords. (51 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Hybrid electric transit bus pollutes less, conserves fuel

This true low-floor bus prototype has the performance of a conventional diesel-powered vehicle with hardly any fumes. The authors discuss the design of this series hybrid bus, and in particular the propulsion system. Four independent AC drives, one integrated into each driven wheel, are used. They are powered by a battery assisted auxiliary power unit consisting of a downsized heat engine coupled to an alternator. The authors describe the tests carried out on this bus