Quasianamorphic optical imaging system with tomographic reconstruction for electron beam imaging.

We have developed a quasianamorphic optical tomography system coupled to a streak camera to provide continuous recording of the electron beam profile of an intense, long-pulse induction accelerator. A tomographic reconstruction method based on a maximum-entropy algorithm is used to reconstruct the images. The system has simplified the calculation of beam moments, eliminated ambiguity due to beam motion, and contributed to accelerator tuning.

Predictors of short-term deterioration and compliance in psychiatric emergency patients: a prospective study of 457 patients referred to the emergency room of a general hospital.

The aim of this study was to identify predictors of (1) short-term outcome and (2) short-term compliance with treatment (for non-hospitalized patients) in psychiatric emergency patients. Subjects comprised 457 patients referred to the emergency ward of a French general hospital and requiring examination by a psychiatrist. Clinical and therapeutic assessments were carried out at baseline, using DSM-IV diagnoses and overall psychopathological scoring scales [Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) and Symptom Checklist-90 Revised]. Clinical outcome and compliance were assessed 3 weeks after entry. For each of the two issues assessed, stepwise logistic regression analysis was performed following univariate comparisons. The three best predictors of deterioration at 3 weeks were lack of compliance to treatment, presence of a previous psychiatric history, and a low BPRS hebephrenic factor score. The best predictors of compliance in non-hospitalized patients were a previous psychiatric history, marital status, a low BPRS hostility factor score, and older age. The main predictor of deterioration was non-compliance. Thus, we emphasize the importance of improving compliance, especially among young patients with no previous psychiatric history.

Serotonine and suicide: a preliminary study concerning a sample of violent suicidal patients.

1. A sample of patients having attempted to commit suicide by using violent methods (hanging, jumping) was investigated according to the following procedure: for each patient, some evaluative tests (the MADRS, the SCL 90 and an agressivity scale) were administered and DSM III diagnosis was provided as well as the therapeutical orientation. 2. The 5 HIAA' level was measured in the CSF soon after the suicide attempt except for patients with rachis fracture or exposed to a cerebral oedeme. 3. Results were compared to those of a control group composed with patients having operated with rachi-anesthesia for orthopedic surgery. 4. The preliminary results show that 5 HIAA' levels were lower for suicide patients except for one schizophrenic patient. 5. This study suggests the possible link between a low 5 HIAA' level in CSF and the clinical aspects of severe suicidal behaviour.