Determining the optimal number of factors to retain in exploratory factor analysis (EFA) has long been a subject of debate in social sciences research. Finch (2020) addresses this challenge by comparing the performance of fit index difference values and parallel analysis, a well-established method in this field. The study offers …
Hui Zheng’s study offers an in-depth analysis of cognitive functioning trends across generations, highlighting notable improvements and subsequent declines in specific cohorts. This research provides critical data for understanding the factors influencing cognitive health over time and their broader implications for aging populations. Background The research examines cognitive performance trends …
Short-form (SF) IQ estimations are often used in clinical settings to provide efficient assessments of intelligence without administering the full test. Lace et al. (2022) examined the effectiveness of various five- and four-subtest combinations for estimating full-scale IQ (FSIQ) on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Fifth Edition (WISC-V). Their findings …
Babcock and Hodge (2020) address a significant challenge in educational measurement: accurately equating exam scores when sample sizes are limited. Their study evaluates the performance of Rasch and classical equating methods, particularly for credentialing exams with small cohorts, and introduces data pooling as a potential solution. Background Equating ensures fairness …
The study by Shi and Maydeu-Olivares (2020) analyzes how different estimation methods influence key fit indices in Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). By focusing on methods such as Maximum Likelihood (ML), Unweighted Least Squares (ULS), and Diagonally Weighted Least Squares (DWLS), the authors explore the nuances of model fit across various …
Holleran et al. (2020) investigated the relationship between white matter microstructure and cognitive ability in patients with schizophrenia and healthy individuals. Drawing on data from the ENIGMA Consortium, the study analyzed how global and regional white matter connectivity relates to cognitive performance, offering a comprehensive perspective on the structural underpinnings …
Gaylord et al. (2020) conducted an extensive analysis of the neurodevelopmental disabilities linked to early-life exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in the United States between 2001 and 2016. The study also examined the economic costs of these exposures, emphasizing the significance of effective public health interventions. Background Endocrine-disrupting chemicals are …
This post reviews the findings of Widen et al. (2019), who examined how maternal prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) and gestational weight gain (GWG) affect cognitive outcomes in children. The study focused on a diverse, low-income, multiethnic cohort to explore potential sex-specific differences in child neurodevelopment linked to maternal obesity. …
Burgoyne, Harris, and Hambrick’s (2019) study examines how individual differences, including cognitive ability, music aptitude, and mindset, influence the acquisition of piano skills among beginners. By focusing on individuals with little to no prior experience, this research offers insights into the early stages of learning a musical instrument. Background The …
Midday napping is a common practice in many cultures, especially among children. Liu et al. (2019) investigated the potential benefits of this habit for cognitive, emotional, and physical health outcomes in children. Their findings provide valuable insights into how napping may influence various aspects of child development. Background The study …
