Presented are some guidelines for making intelligent selections when buying computers. The intended primary use of the equipment is seen as the primary point to consider when planning the purchase. Other important points to consider and possible sources of relevant information are noted. (MP)

Eight electronic learning aid products are reviewed. Prices and features are summarized. (MP)

Describes conflicting findings about whether print advertisements are generally informative or persuasive; suggests research needs in this area. (GT)

Discusses improvements since the early 1970s in roof construction and advises an inspection program for existing roofs. (MLF)

Discusses features of different types of door closers that reduce high opening forces. (MLF)

Lists 10 questions that should be asked when evaluating a new scientific information provider, and discusses how to make a decision after the questions are answered. (Author/PEN)

Almost half of AIDS cases among Hispanics associated with sexual transmission. Of 25 condom brands studied, only half provided Spanish instructions. Readability tests indicate these texts pose difficulties for anyone reading below ninth-grade level. Suggests need to modify AIDS education and prevention materials available to Hispanic community.…

Describes the advantages of EPDM, a single-ply rubber roofing system, and the experience of using it in reroofing eight public schools in the Logansport, Indiana, School District. (MLF)

Explains the new U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Guide Pyramid, which can help children and adults visualize the basics of sound nutrition. The pyramid chart places five food groups from top to bottom in inverse proportion to the number of servings that should be consumed. Special symbols are used to indicate fat content and added…

Describes how filtering software programs work, types of filtering software, and common problems that emerge with use. An appendix provides information on Internet-filtering software products, including product name, company name, filter type, platforms supported, price range, Web site, and notes. (AEF)

To cultivate an online market share, companies must design marketing strategies specifically for the Internet. This article examines the nature of business on the Internet, highlighting demographics, user control, accessibility, communication, authenticity, competition, and security and proposes a marketing strategy, including targeting and…

Examines the future of interactive TV where consumers navigate the Internet on their TVs with WebTV set-top boxes. Focuses on competition between cable companies and computer and consumer electronics companies. Highlights nine companies and partnerships developing interactive hardware and services. (PEN)

Describes thin clients as low-cost personal computers that lack hardware features and run applications off of a school's central server or via an application service provider on the Internet. Discusses advantages, including being easy to use, easy to manage, and less costly to service; and considers possible problems. (LRW)

Automotive wheels and tires require knowledge to understand their specifications and use. While the durability and useful life of tires have increased substantially over the last several decades, in all probability consumers will purchase a number of vehicle tires over their lifetime. Knowing how they are made and what the numbers mean will assist…

There is a link between the context of production and the content of rap music singles. This research finds that when independent labels owned most of the charted singles, lyrics emphasized features of the local environment and hostility to corporate music production and values. In contrast, the major-label dominated market featured lyrics…