[Utilization of a self-contained psychometry-oriented device, for study of affective and cognitive function of a subject].

We appraised the possibility to use the Psycho-Log 24, an ambulatory, adapted to chronopsychometry device, which realizes simplified questionnaires and performance test adaptable to each subject; this device has dimensions like a pocketbook; its storage capacity is compatible with a long time use. 9 adult volunteers (8 healthy subjects and 1 depressive patient) participated to this study. All of them effected reaction times (TRS) during 3 to 31 days at the rate of at least 4 sessions/day; some of them completed mental calculations (CM), letters cancellations (BRL) and auto-estimation scales (from 1 to 9 items, also measured by a classic method).

Circadian rhythm period in reaction time to light signals: difference between right- and left-hand side.

The study was designed to test the hypothesis that the prominent rhythm period tau of simple reaction time (SRT) and three-choice reaction time (CRT) to light signals may vary between the dominant (DH) and non-dominant (NDH) hand. Eleven healthy subjects, 8 males (16-74 years, including two left-handed) and 3 females (18-43 years), synchronized with a diurnal activity (approximately 07.00 h to approximately 23.

Temperature rhythm of patients with major affective disorders: reduced circadian period length.

The aim of the study was to explore circadian alterations of the temperature rhythm in adults with Major Affective Disorders (DSM III-R:296.xx). The axillary temperature of 56 inpatients was recorded (6-min intervals for at least a 48-h span) when major clinical symptoms occurred and thereafter during the remission.

Placebo effect on the circadian rhythm period tau of temperature and hand-grip strength rhythms: interindividual and gender-related difference.

Two different medications, one assumed to be a tranquilizer and the other an antifatigue agent, were tested. Both were found to be ineffective and thus were viewed as placebos and named P1 and P2. The effect of P1 and P2 on the circadian rhythms of a set of variables (e.

[Circadian rhythm of the axillary temperature in mood disorders. Prominent ultradian period in major thymic disorders].

Axillary temperature was recorded in in-patients with affective disorders (DSM III-R). The results suggest that ultradian temperature rhythm could be the indice of an internal desynchronisation associated with acute episode of major affective disorders.

[Axillary temperature rhythms: the predominance of ultradian periodicity in major affective disorders].

Axillary temperature was recorded at least twice during a 48 hrs. span at 6 min. intervals in 10 hospitalized subjects with major affective disorders (DSM III 296.

[Medical jurisprudence problems raised by transsexualism in 1986. Apropos of 148 cases of gender dysphoria].

The authors review the classification of transsexualism and gender dysphoria with respect to a series of 148 patients followed up for 10 years by a multidisciplinary group of endocrinologists, surgeons and psychiatrists; transsexualism is a major problem of self-identity and not a sexual derivation. The principal features of the study population are presented with details of methodology, criteria for selection for sex change treatment, and results obtained. The two main medicolegal problems (changing civil identity and penal medical responsibility) posed by medico-surgical treatment in France are discussed.

[Use of presynaptic alpha-mimetics for withdrawal in heroin addicts].

We report the results of two studies carried out in the Drug Addiction Unit of Fernand-Widal hospital, on the use of presynaptic alpha-mimetic drugs in the treatment of heroin addicts. The authors briefly recall the mode of action of these drugs, and then describe the methodology of these two studies of Guanoxabenz and Guanfacine; characteristics of this group, outcome of therapy, mode of prescription, side effects. The results are analysed and compared with the usual methods of treatment using synthetic opiates.

[A study of bromazepam in hospital practice (author's transl)].

The effectiveness of bromazepam was evaluated in 32 hospital out-patients suffering from reactional depression or anxiety-depression syndrome. Dosages ranged from 6 to 9 mg/24 hours in 3 divided doses. Results were assessed by means of a battery of tests (Hamilton's scale, self-evaluation scores of Hopkins, Pull-Guelfi's scale, Bond's psychometric tests) performed on days 0, 14 and 18.

[Is there a treatment for paranoia? (author's transl)].

Is there a treatment for paranoia? Our answer is yes. A dual sensitive relationship with the patient must be avoided. The ties which link the patient to his practitioner and to the other therapists involved must be supple and diversified.