Identification of moderator variables by discriminant analysis in a multipredictable group validation model.

Used a multivariate discriminant analysis procedure to identify moderator variables in a multipredictable group validation (mpgv) model. Results from mpgv were compared to those of the univariate simple algebraic and absolute difference techniques. 17 variables, determined for 418 undergraduates (assigned equally to an experimental and a cross-validation group), were investigated as potential moderators of the relationship between the predictor and the criterion (gpa). The 3 techniques revealed moderators different from each other. In addition, number and types of moderators varied according to the composition of the prediction groups in mpgv. Results are discussed with respect to problems with moderator variable techniques. (27 ref.) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

A further note on the fakability of the MTAI.

"This study employed a factorial design to investigate the effects of several conditions of administration on the fakability of the MTAI… the findings support the conclusion that groups of students are not likely to be able to fake the MTAI unless they receive a cue from the faking instructions, or elsewhere, as to what the inventory is about." (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Castration, circumcision, and anti-Semitism.

In this study, the authors look at whether circumcision is a relevant variable in anti-Semitism as measured in a contemporary male gentile population. The 52-item A-S scale described by Levinson and Sanford was administered to 381 students drawn from various psychology courses at Princeton and Rutgers Universities. The subjects (Ss) included in this study are 142 gentile male undergraduates selected from the larger population and divided into two matched groups of 71 each. No reliable differences in attitude were found between circumcised and uncircumcised subjects. These findings indicate the relative unimportance of circumcision as an isolated factor in anti-Semitism. The implications for the relationships involving circumcision, castration, and anti-Semitism are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Comparison of "joint moderators" in three prediction techniques.

Examined the existence of 2 potential "joint moderator" variables (anxiety and study habits), and compared their operation according to 3 different prediction techniques: (a) subgroup analysis, (b) differential prediction of predictability, and (c) moderated regression. Results with 393 undergraduates indicate that anxiety moderated the relationship between GPA and American College Test scores using subgroup analysis and differential predictability techniques. A comparison of moderated regression with linear regression indicated that study habits operated as an independent predictor. None of the techniques identified joint moderators in this situation. Results are discussed in the light of problems and assumptions of each technique. The need for systematic identification of moderators from a large mass of data is indicated. (17 ref.) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

A control theoretic model for piloted approach to landing

A previously developed, optimal control model for manned-vehicle systems analysis is extended to analyze a piloted approach to landing task. The system model that is developed is used to investigate pictorial display requirements for a light aircraft. The effects, on system performance, of different display symbology are predicted by the model and are compared with data obtained in an independent experimental study. The comparison demonstrates the validity of our pilot model and its utility in manned vehicle analysis and synthesis.     

Validity and fairness of physical ability tests for predicting performance in craft jobs.

Problems relating to performance, accidents, and turnover in outdoor telephone craft jobs stimulated 2 experiments aimed at developing and validating a physical test battery. Based on job analysis results, a battery of 9 measures was administered to a sample of 128 Ss (83 males and 45 females) in Exp I. A 2-test battery (dynamic arm strength and reaction time), valid for predicting job task performance and turnover, was selected. Regression equations for males and females were not significantly different. Exp II included a sample of 210 Ss (132 males and 78 females). A 3-test battery consisting of a body density measure, a balance test, and a static strength test was selected based on relationships with training performance. No significant differences were found in the regression equations for males compared to females. The Exp II battery was also significantly related to field performance, training completion, and accidents and was valid for the Exp I criteria. (18 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Radiation Damage to Chromosomes

The foregoing, I think, does give some idea of the types of things that can be done and have been done in experiments on chromosome aberrations. The studies I discussed represent basic radiobiological research on chromosomes. I would like to point out, however, that the information obtained from such basic studies is being used in a practical way. For instance, in the field of cancer radiotherapy knowledge of changes in chromosome sensitivity during the cell cycle is being exploited to devise rational dose fractionation procedures for treatments. Furthermore, attempts are now being made to either oxygenate tumor cells (which are ordinarily anoxic) or to use more densely ionizing radiations. The reason for this is that either method will obviate the difference in radiosensitivity between anoxic tumor cells, which we want to kill, and oxygenated normal cells, which we want to spare. As a basic scientist, I find it particularly gratifying to see that, ever more frequently, concepts     

The generalization of the effects of agreement and correctness on relative competence mediating conformity.

Presented a social communication task to 215 Canadian high school students (Grades 8-13). Results show that correctness and group agreement interacted with grade level, producing varying degrees of perceived competence relative to a simulated group. For Ss in Grades 8-10 only, the experimental manipulation of relative competence influenced conformity; Ss who were told that they were more competent than the group conformed less than those who were told that they were either less competent than or as competent as the group. Ss who perceived themselves to be more competent than the group also conformed less. Other findings are that: (a) females showed significantly higher conformity, (b) Ss in Grades 11-13 indicated more suspicion and awareness of the possibility of deception, and (c) no differences in conformity existed between suspicious and nonsuspicious Ss. (French summary) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)