Current theories and research on distributed activation in sleep are reviewed, and a neurocognitive theory of sleep is presented that is based on distributed activation. Neural and cognitive relationships described by the theory are translated into connectionist models, and simulations are described. (SLD)

The potential for bias in reliability estimation and for errors in item selection when alpha or unit-weighted omega coefficients are used is explored under simulated conditions. Results suggest that composite reliability may be an assessment tool but should not be an item selection tool in structural equations. (SLD)

The effect of the conditioning score on the results of differential item functioning (DIF) analysis was examined with simulated data. The study demonstrates that results of DIF that rely on a conditioning score can be quite different depending on the conditioning variable that is selected. (SLD)

Describes examples of simulations and strategies for teaching about psychology that were developed in Indonesia and Malaysia to incorporate and address controversies related to cultural differences. A model that simulates the influence of a client's cultural context in counseling is explained, and developing stereotyped synthetic cultures is…

Describes SimBiz, a computer-mediated simulation of business communication using e-mail. (SR)

Reviews the literature concerning practical computer-based simulation systems for the management of construction projects and/or firms and describes a conceptual model of a prototype system that simulates the decision making of construction site management. Research and development required to produce the system for use in industry is discussed.…

Virtual reality, a three-dimensional simulation technology, may best be used (1) when training mistakes would be costly; (2) when the environment cannot be experienced in the real world; (3) to improve human-machine interfaces; (4) to make training situations real; and (5) to make the perceptible imperceptible. (SK)

Effectiveness of jackknife methods in reducing bias in estimation of the log-1 autocorrelation parameter p1 was evaluated through a Monte Carlo study using sample sizes ranging from 6 to 500. These estimates appear less biased in the small sample case than many that have been investigated recently. (SLD)

The nonparametric Mokken model of test data was compared with parametric models using simulated data through latent class analysis. It is demonstrated that latent class analysis provides a consistent comparison of item response models. (SLD)

A variation of the Mantel Haenszel procedure is proposed that improves detection rates of nonuniform differential item functioning (DIF) without increasing the Type I error rate. The procedure, which is illustrated with simulated examinee responses, involves splitting the sample into low- and high-performing groups. (SLD)

A model that can be used to show the arrangement of light and heavy chains, disulfide linkages, domains, and subclass variations in antibodies is given. It can be constructed and modified to illustrate Fab, F(ab')2, and Fc fragments, single domain and bifunctional antibodies, and labeling of antibodies. (Author)

Used experimental driving simulator as basis for strategy to encourage a reduction in drunk driving prevalence using adult male subjects (n=36) who participated in a study group and controls (n=36). Results indicated study group subjects significantly decreased their drunk driving compared to the control group. (ABL)

The first of two articles discusses virtual reality (VR) and online databases; the second one reports on an interview with Thomas A. Furness III, who defines VR and explains work at the Human Interface Technology Laboratory (HIT). Sidebars contain a glossary of VR terms and a conversation with Toni Emerson, the HIT lab's librarian. (LRW)

How item bias indexes based on item response theory (IRT) identify bias that results from multidimensionality is demonstrated. Simulation results suggest that IRT-based bias indexes detect multidimensional items with bias but do not detect multidimensional items without bias. They also do not confound between-group differences on the primary test.…

McAteer discusses how simulations can provide rich learning environments and explains how to design behavioral simulations. MacDonald describes the use of the listening vignette in workshops on listening skills. (JOW)