Evaluation of plate count methods for determination of maximum specific growth rate in mixed microbial communities, and its possible application for diversity assessment.

Two plate count methods are proposed for direct assessment of the maximum specific growth rate (microm) of bacteria in mixed communities. An estimate of microm of individual colonies is obtained by plating samples on an agar medium and determining either the time required to form macroscopically visible colonies, Tv (diameter < or =0.2 mm), or the linear radial growth rate, Kr, of single colonies.

Risperidone versus perphenazine in the treatment of chronic schizophrenic patients with acute exacerbations.

Risperidone (RIS), a new neuroleptic with 5-HT2- and dopamine D2 receptor-blocking properties, was compared with perphenazine (PER) in a double-blind, multicentre, parallel-group study in 107 chronic schizophrenics with acute exacerbation. RIS 5-15 mg or PER 16-48 mg daily was given for 8 weeks. Psychopathology was assessed with the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and Clinical Global Impression.

[Establishing smoking habits among adolescents. A study of 9th-grade students].

A cross-sectional study of 661 9th grade pupils in Bergen municipality was conducted in November 1992. The pupils completed an anonymous questionnaire on their smoking habits. 25% of the girls and 16% of the boys reported smoking daily.