First names and popularity in grade school children

The relationship between first name desirability and popularity was studied using 780 boys and 768 girls from six elementary schools. Girls' popularity, as demonstrated by positive sociometric choices, was significantly related to the desirability of their first names. There is also a slight indication that boys' popularity with girls was influenced by the boys' first names. Sociometric rejections were not related to first name desirability for either boys or girls. The findings for girls remained significant when the effects of parental education and ethnicity were partialled out; the single finding for boys did not.     

Sampling period determination for heart rate logging under an exercise regimen

Using a mathematical procedure, we determine appropriate sampling rates for logging heart rate, at a variety of exercise intensities. The mathematical procedure involves correlating exercise and heart rate data to determine a dynamical mathematical model, from which the frequency response of the relationship between exercise intensity and heart rate can be determined. The sampling rate is then straightforwardly deduced by making appropriate measurements on the frequency response curve. We show how careful consideration needs to be given to the choice of dynamical model structure and the work regimen, so that consistent and convincing conclusions can be drawn. We demonstrate that the dynamics of the work-rate/heart-rate system are dependent on the nominal work/heart rate, but a 5-s sampling period, as used in many commercial heart rate monitors, appears to be adequate, especially when some averaging is performed before logging.     

"Show and tell" in the gymnasium revisited: developmental differences in modeling and verbal rehearsal effects on motor skill learning and performance.

Little research has investigated the observational learning process from a developmental perspective. The purpose of this study was to extend previous research by considering two factors: performance versus learning and sequencing versus form scores. Children (N = 60) comprising two age groups (5-0 to 6-11 and 8-0 to 9-11 years) were randomly assigned to verbal rehearsal only, model only, or model plus verbal rehearsal conditions. The task was a 6-part motor skill sequence in which proper sequencing and quality of form were assessed. A 2 x 3 x 4 (age group by model type by trial blocks) repeated measures MANOVA revealed a significant three-way interaction. Older children performed equally well under any of the model type conditions during both performance and learning. For younger children, a model plus rehearsal was superior to rehearsal only on sequence and form at performance and learning and superior to model only on sequence scores during the first two performance trial blocks. Model only and model plus rehearsal conditions were equally effective on form scores. These results suggest that age differences exist in the modeling of motor skills under conditions varying in model type, sequence and form scores, and performance and learning phases.     

Some approaches to modeling complex information systems

State-of-the-art of modeling complex information systems is briefly discussed. A distinction is made between macrolevel and microlevel modeling of such systems. Modeling approaches and techniques, appropriate for each of these two levels are described and assessed.     

The use of a website in the implementation of a communication policy in an enterprise

The possibility of using an enterprise’s website to implement its communication policy is considered. The classification of websites is presented and the interconnection of objectives for constructing an electronic representation and its information content is described. The role of an enterprise’s information service employees in the construction, support, and promotion of the enterprise’s website is defined.     

VINITI RAN abstract database: Prospects of information postprocessing using methods of data analysis

The All-Russian Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of the Russian Academy of Sciences (VINITI RAN) is active in the development of information and analysis technologies at a conceptual and practical level, using both its own and available domestic and foreign information resources. The aim of this paper is to describe (in the light of emerging trends in the institute) promising approaches to more in-depth information processing and analysis of available data, as well as to discuss the possibilities for creating new types of information products and services designed to support management decisions, not only in science and industry, but also, indirectly, in the economy as a whole.