Field evaluation of thermal and acoustical comfort in eight North-American buildings using embedded radiant systems.

We performed a post-occupancy assessment based on 500 occupant surveys in eight buildings using embedded radiant heating and cooling systems. This study follows-up on a quantitative assessment of 60 office buildings that found radiant and all-air buildings have comparable temperature and acoustic satisfaction with a tendency for increased temperature satisfaction in radiant buildings. Our objective was to investigate reasons of comfort and discomfort in the radiant buildings, and to relate these to building characteristics and operations strategies.

Comparative study of biological glues: cryoprecipitate glue, two-component fibrin sealant, and "French" glue.

Background: Although biological glues have been used clinically in cardiovascular operations, there are no comprehensive comparative studies to help clinicians select one glue over another. In this study we determined the efficacy in controlling suture line and surface bleeding and the biophysical properties of cryoprecipitate glue, two-component fibrin sealant, and "French" glue containing gelatin-resorcinol-formaldehyde-glutaraldehyde (GRFG).

Methods: Twenty-four dogs underwent a standardized atriotomy and aortotomy; the incisions were closed with interrupted 3-0 polypropylene sutures placed 3 mm apart.

Usefulness of influenza vaccination in the elderly.

Since influenza morbidity and mortality are high in the elderly, the usefulness of vaccination has been evaluated. One hundred and twenty-six older persons aged 60-90 yr were given a vaccine consisting of the 3 antigens Singapore, Shanghaï and Yamagata, the latter 2 being new antigens. Antibody levels for each of the antigens were determined by ELISA calibrated in HA units prior to and 1 month after vaccination.

Supratentorial extracerebral cysts in infants and children.

Twelve cases of supratentorial extracerebral cysts in infants and children are reported. Eight were located in the Sylvian fissure, two in the interhemispheric fissue, and two over the convexity of the cerebral hemispheres. Irrespective of their precise location these cysts, in their common, uncomplicated form, give rise to a clinical syndrome different from that recorded in older patients, with a symmetrical macrocrania of a severe degree unassociated with any neurological signs or abnormalities in psychomotor development.