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Apraxia is a debilitating cognitive motor disorder that frequently occurs after left hemisphere stroke and affects tool-associated and imitative skills. However, the severity of the apraxic deficits varies even across patients with similar lesions. This variability raises the question whether regions outside the left hemisphere network typically associated with cognitive motor tasks in healthy subjects are of additional functional relevance. To investigate this hypothesis, we explored regions where functional magnetic resonance imaging activity is associated with better cognitive motor performance in patients with left hemisphere ischaemic stroke. Thirty-six patients with chronic (>6 months) large left hemisphere infarcts (age ± standard deviation, 60 ± 12 years, 29 male) and 29 control subjects (age ± standard deviation, 72 ± 7, 15 male) were first assessed behaviourally outside the scanner with tests for actual tool use, pantomime and imitation of tool-use gestures, as well as for meaningless gesture imitation. Second, functional magnetic resonance imaging activity was registered during the passive observation of videos showing tool-associated actions. Voxel-wise linear regression analyses were used to identify areas where behavioural performance was correlated with functional magnetic resonance imaging activity. Furthermore, lesions were delineated on the magnetic resonance imaging scans for voxel-based lesion–symptom mapping. The analyses revealed two sets of regions where functional magnetic resonance imaging activity was associated with better performance in the clinical tasks. First, activity in left hemisphere areas thought to mediate cognitive motor functions in healthy individuals (i.e. activity within the putative ‘healthy’ network) was correlated with better scores. Within this network, tool-associated tasks were mainly related to activity in supramarginal gyrus and ventral premotor cortex, while meaningless gesture imitation depended more on the anterior intraparietal sulcus and superior parietal lobule. Second, repeating the regression analyses with total left hemisphere lesion volume as additional covariate demonstrated that tool-related skills were further supported by right premotor, right inferior frontal and left anterior temporal areas, while meaningless gesture imitation was also driven by the left dorso-lateral prefrontal cortex. In summary, tool-related and imitative skills in left hemisphere stroke patients depend on the activation of spared left hemisphere regions that support these abilities in healthy individuals. In addition, cognitive motor functions rely on the activation of ipsi- and contralesional areas that are situated outside this ‘healthy’ network. This activity may explain why some patients perform surprisingly well despite large left brain lesions, while others are severely impaired. * Abbreviations : ATL = : anterior temporal lobe BOLD = : blood oxygen level-dependant IFG = : inferior frontal gyrus IPL = : inferior parietal lobule MCA = : middle cerebral artery PFC = : prefrontal cortex PMC = : premotor cortex SMG = : supramarginal gyrus SPL = : superior parietal lobule VLSM = : voxel-based lesion–symptom mapping

Wissen, so lautet eine in den Sozialwissenschaften weitgehend geteilte Annahme, entsteht und ist kontextgebunden. Entsprechend kann Wahrheit kein transhistorischer Wert sein, sondern muss als Mass fur die Schwere gesehen werden, mit der Einwande gegen Aussagen mit Wahrheitsanspruch formuliert werden konnen. Obgleich dies kaum bestritten wird und vielfach viabel plausibilisiert wurde, wurde diese Erkenntnis selbst sehr unterschiedlich und stets nach den Pramissen des jeweils spezifischen Verwendungszusammenhangs aufgegriffen. Eine sozialkonstruktivistische und politisch bewegte Tradition relativiert den Befund der Konstruiertheit allen Wissens, wenn sie behauptet, Wissen sei nur konstruiert. Damit nahrt sie den Verdacht, Wissen konne primar und unabhangig von den Phanomenen von benennbaren Personen, Gruppen, Organisationen, Staaten oder wem auch immer interessensbezogen und -geleitet konstruiert werden. In dieser Blickrichtung fallt der Wissenssoziologie die Aufgabe zu, die Interessen zu entlarven und dabei tunlichst zu vermeiden, dass der Eindruck entsteht, dass auch das so geschaffene Wissen uber das Wissen anderer nur konstruiert sei. Dass dieser Blick uberdies besser nicht oder nur in Sondersituationen auf das eigene Schaffen oder das Schaffen der engsten Kolleginnen und Kollegen in der eigenen Disziplin gerichtet werden sollte, liegt nahe, denn diese Spur sucht letztlich nach in der Wissenschaft unlauteren oder ruchbaren Erscheinungen wie etwa Zitierkartellen, Machtstrukturen und dergleichen mehr – mithin alles Erscheinungen mit Anklagepotenzial. Die alternative Stromung des radikalen (wahlweise auch operativen oder erkenntnistheoretischen) Konstruktivismus radikalisiert die Aussage der Konstruiertheit stattdessen in all ihren Konsequenzen: Wissen ist konstruiert. Die damit behauptete Alternativlosigkeit und Unhintergehbarkeit der Aussage ermoglicht die empirisch offene Frage nach den Bedingungen fur die Moglichkeit der Wissenskonstruktion – und dies sowohl in der Sach-, Zeit-, Sozialund, wenn man will, auch in der Raumdimension allen Sinngeschehens. Sichtbar gemacht werden konnen die Sonderbedingungen fur die Konstruktion von wissenschaftlichem Wissen ebenso wie die Strukturen der sozialen Kontexte, in denen es entsteht und sich durchsetzt. Dieses anspruchsvolle wissenssoziologische Programm hat sich in den Sozialwissenschaften allerdings kaum durchgesetzt (vgl. fur diese Sicht der Dinge wie auch fur daraus folgende Einzelstudien: Kieserling, 2004). Es scheint dieser differenzierten Position der oftmals wichtige politische Habitus zu fehlen. Der radikale Konstruktivismus glaubt nicht an die Moglichkeit, die Probleme der Gesellschaft durch die Wahl der richtigen Begriffe losen zu konnen, wie es manche Sozialkonstruktivisten anzunehmen scheinen. Dazu bindet diese erkenntnistheoretische Position die Wahl ihrer Begriffe zu eng an die Beobachtungsschemata der von ihr beobachteten Beobachter und ist durch diese Realitatsbindung in ihrer Konstruktion von Wissen keineswegs frei (Luhmann, 1992). Daruber hinaus stosst der Umgang dieser Position mit Empirie bisweilen auf Verwunderung. Wird doch in den Sozialwissenschaften Empirie nicht immer auf all das bezogen, was man aus Erfahrung sagen kann, sondern stattdessen mehrheitlich auf eigens erhobene Daten enggefuhrt und in scharfe Opposition zum Begriff der Theorie gestellt. Die Texte anderer auf ihre Theoriearchitektur und ihre Kontexte hin zu beobachten, gilt in der Regel als nicht empirisch genug, gleichwohl es naturlich solche Arbeiten gibt – etwa von Barnes (1998), Eisel (2009) oder Hard (2003), um einige herausragende Beispiele in der Geographie zu nennen.

Les scientifiques ne parviennent guère à saccorder sur la signification précise de la notion despace public voir Staeheli & Mitchell 2007). La confusion baby lonienne qui entoure ce concept Selle 2008) peut être expliquée par au moins trois raisons. Premièrement, il nexiste aucune distinction claire entre les termes espace public et sphère publique. Deuxièmement, le terme despace public est entouré dune connotation fortement normative Belina 2005), ce qui ne facilite pas la vision analytique des processus qui conduisent à la construction des espaces publics. Troisièmement, il nexiste pas de consensus relatif à la direction prise par le changement de fonction de lespace public contem porain. Dans les lignes qui suivent, nous revenons briè vement sur chacun de ces trois aspects pour ensuite positionner la contribution de ce cahier thématique par rapport à lespace public et à la diversité sociale.

By means of using biomechanical methods we investigated the relations between muscle activity and ground forces that are produced during walking. Our special attention was directed forwards the touching phase of the foot which was registered via integrated electromyogram (surface electrodes) and force plateform (Kistler). The initial spike of vertical force and its dependence of m. tibialis anterior activity was examined. In addition we observed connections between m. tibialis anterior activity and surface condition of the ground. Further, our results documented a damped movement of the touching fore foot and a steady take over of weight during pressing which was caused by increased tibialis activity. The pressure phase (first part of the vertical force component) was separated in two curves and defined by means of two angles. More data was given for interpretation the activities of m. gastrocnemius, m. peroneus longus and vertical and transversal force components. In further experiments we intend to analyse pathologic conditions.

ZusammenfassungDie Ergebnisse der vorliegenden Studie zeigen die Bedeutung der Biografie als Vulnerabilitätsfaktor für die Entwicklung einer Depression. Insbesondere die biografischen Skalen Primärsozialisation (PS) und Kindliches Kontaktverhalten – ein Teilaspekt der Extraversion– zeigen bei depressiven Patienten ausgeprägte Unterschiede sowohl zu nichtklinischen Probanden als auch zu sonstigen psychisch erkrankten Patienten. Auch finden sich in der Stichprobe von Depressiven signifikant positive Zusammenhänge zwischen der Skala Primärsozialisation (PS) einerseits und Desorganisation (DO) bzw. Neurotizismus (NE) andererseits sowie ein signifikant negativer mit der Skala Zielgerichtetheit (ZG). Außerdem ergab sich eine signifikant positive Korrelation zwischen der Skala Schulisches Engagement (SCH) einerseits und der Skala Rigidität (RI) andererseits. In der Gruppe der depressiven Patienten werden durch die Skala Primärsozialisation (PS) die Gegenwartsskalen Zielgerichtetheit (ZG) gegensinnig, Neurotizismus (NE) und Desorganisation (DO) gleichsinnig signifikant vorhergesagt. Die Skala Schulisches Engagement (SCH) prognostiziert die Skala Rigidität (RI) gleichsinnig signifikant. In der Gruppe der sonstigen psychisch Erkrankten sagt die Skala Kindliches Kontaktverhalten (KI) signifikant gleichsinnig Rigität (RI) sowie Partnerschaftszufriedenheit (PA) vorher und Desorganisation (DO) gegensinnig. Die Skala Schulisches Engagement (SCH) vermag zudem in dieser Gruppe die Skala Idealität (ID) gleichsinnig signifikant vorherzusagen. Bei der Gruppe der nicht-klinischen Probanden eignet sich die Skala Schulisches Engagement (SCH) als gleichsinniger signifikanter Prädiktor der Skala Zielgerichtetheit (ZG) und Berufszufriedenheit (BE). Aus diesen Befunden werden Konsequenzen für die Behandlung depressiver Patienten abgeleitet, nämlich emotionale und kognitive Umstrukturierung von Aspekten der Biografie.

European ethical and legal positions with regard to EN vary slightly from country to country but are based on a common tradition derived from Graeco Roman ideas, religious thought and events of the 20th century. The Hippocratic tradition is based on 'beneficience' (do good) and 'non-maleficience' (do no harm). Religious thinking is based upon the presumption of providing food and drink by whatever means unless burden outweighs benefit. The concept of 'autonomy' (the patients right to decide) arose following in the decades after the Second World War and is enshrined in Human Rights law. The competent patient has the right to participate in decision making and to refuse treatment although the doctor is not obliged to give treatment which he or she considers futile or against the patient's interests. The incompetent patient is protected by law. The fourth principle is that of 'justice' i.e. equal access to healthcare for all. The law regards withholding and withdrawing treatment as the same. It also defines the provision of food and drink by mouth as basic care and feeding by artificial means as a medical treatment. It requires doctors to act in the best interests of the patient.

We have previously shown that, in the case of extremely short lived chlorocarbon anions (of CCl 4 , CFCl 3 ) in liquid MCH solutions, one observes the formation and decay of the solvent separated ion pairs (R + ∥Cl - ) s o l v , instead of the geminate ion recombination between the solvent cation (MCH + ) and the fragment anion (Cl - ). For longer lived anions (CHCl - 3) there was no formation of ion pairs (IPs) observable. To evaluate the correlation between IP formation and anion lifetime τ - , three new chlorocarbon solutes (RCl), hexachloroethane (Hexa), pentachloroethane (Penta), and tetrachloroethane (Tetra), were studied, for which a coarse lifetime classification from positronium studies suggested that Hexa- and Penta - should be short lived (IP formation possible) and Tetra - long lived (no IP formation). The results in this paper agree with this expectation and confirm the correlation with τ - . With anion lifetimes of 250 and 150 ns for Hexa- and Penta- at 143 K, ion pairs were observed, whereas Tetra - with τ - = 13.7 μs decayed too late to yield IPs. The solvent separated ion pairs are formed through charge transfer (CT) from MCH + to the fragment radical R* from the anion decay: MCH + + R...Cl - -η → (R + ∥Cl - ) s o l v . The IP absorption is due to the CT band of (R + ← MCH), and the stability relates to the complexing with the solvent. The efficiency η for CT reduces with time and therefore correlates to the anion lifetime: the later R* is freed, the lower η. It also correlates with the ratio of D f a s t /D d i f f (competition of the high mobility approach of MCH + (with D f a s t ) toward Cl- and the diffusional escape of R* (with D d i f f ), away from Cl-). It is shown that η reduces by a factor of about 6 from 133 to 295 K in parallel to D f a s t /D d i f f reducing from 400 to 10. It is concluded that the high mobility of the solvent cation is a requirement for positive CT from MCH + to R*. The IP formation therefore gains importance at very low temperature; however, it loses importance at room temperature. The IP lifetime at 143 K is longest for CCl 4 (τ i p = 111 μs), followed by Hexa (τ i p = 22.7 μs) and Penta (τ i p = 5.3 μs). If no IP is detectable, IP formation is still possible, but τ i p « τ - (probably true for CHCl 3 ). For all IPs so far found (list of 7 given) the IP decay rate constant k i p is characterized by a very low preexponential Arrhenius factor of log A 8-10. For CCl 4 , Hexa, and Penta, the log A values are 9.0 ′ 0.2, 8.3 ′ 0.3, and 10.4 ′ 0.4, respectively. Simulation of the complete mechanism is rather complex, but it is carefully analyzed with schemes of various complexity, particularily with and without the cation mechanism, related to the precursor M + * of the high mobility cation MCH + . It is shown that the details of the cationic mechanism are covered up by the strong absorption from the ion pair IP, if formed.

In the context of studies on the influence of the anion lifetime on the geminate ion kinetics, 1,1,1,2- and 1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane (1112-Tetra and 1122-Tetra) were studied as solutes in liquid m...

A method was developed to measure the degree of sensitisation to intergranular corrosion. This electrochemical reactivation test is fast, non-destructive and quantifies the degree of sensitisation. The test measures the current after reactivation associated with the corrosion of chromium depleted regions. This test was carried out on a stabilised and on a not stabilised steel grade in various heat treatment conditions. The test procedures and the results of the test, which have been verified by a metallographical examination, are presented in this study in comparison to results from conventional tests.

ZusammenfassungIn der vorliegenden Untersuchung kamen zwei Persönlichkeitsfragebögen, das Eysenck Personality Inventory (EPI) und der Biografische Fragebogen für Alkoholabhängige (BIFA-AL). sowie ein Persönlichkeitstest, der Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), zur Anwendung. Insgesamt umfasste die klinische Studie 88 Versuchspersonen: 44 depressive Patienten und 44 in Bezug auf Alter, Geschlecht und Schulbildung parallelisierte gesunde Probanden. Die Ergebnisse des TAT zeigen, dass sich die Patienten in ihren Fantasiegeschichten von ihrer depressiven Einstellungen lösen. Die Bildtafeln scheinen die Patienten zu animieren, ihre passive und negative Einstellungen aufzugeben und in ihren Fantasiegeschichten aktiv und positiv eingestellt in das Geschehen einzugreifen. In ihren Fantasiegeschichten leben sie das aus, was sie im normalen depressiven Leben nicht verwirklichen können, und verhalten sich so, wie sie gerne in Wirklichkeit wären. In den beiden Persönlichkeitsfragebögen konnten deutliche Unterschiede (höherer Neurotizismus, niedrigere Extraversion) zwischen den beiden Stichproben festgestellt werden. In der Skala „Zielgerichtetheit” des BIFA-AL erzielten die Patienten deutlich niedrigere Werte als die gesunden Probanden. Die Patienten erreichten ferner ungünstigere Werte hinsichtlich der Primärsozialisation. Sie schildern ihre Primärsozialisation deutlich ungünstiger und belastender. Vorschläge hinsichtlich psychotherapeutischer Folgerungen aus diesen Befunden werden unterbreitet.

ZusammenfassungZiel der vorliegenden Studie ist die Ergänzung der Lifeevent-Forschung durch den Einfluss von Lebensstress und biographischen Faktoren auf den klinisch-stationären Behandlungsverlauf von Depressionen. Methoden: Die Daten wurden an 152 Patienten erhoben, die sich mit der Diagnose einer affektiven Erkrankung (DSM–III–R) in stationärer Behandlung befanden. Der psychopathologische Status wurde an vier Messzeitpunkten mit der Depressivitätsskala von v. Zerssen dokumentiert und diente als Variable des Behandlungsverlaufes. Zu Beginn wurden die Patienten zu biographischen Aspekten (BIFA–AL), belastenden Lebensereignissen (ILE), chronischen Schwierigkeiten (Liste CS), Krankheitsverarbeitung (FKV) sowie soziodemographischen Merkmalen befragt. Ergebnisse: Kritische Lebensereignisse und chronische Schwierigkeiten beeinflussen die psychopathologische Symptomatik und die klinische Aufenthaltsdauer signifikant, ebenso wie die Faktoren »Neurotizismus« und »Zielgerichtetheit«. Diese beiden Faktoren sowie der Mittelwert der summierten Gesamtbelastung BELWERT eignen sich als gute Prognosefaktoren für den klinischen Verlauf. Ein deutlicher Zusammenhang besteht zwischen den biographischen Dimensionen und der Belastung durch chronisch schwierige Situationen sowie zwischen den Faktoren »Primärsozialisation« und mit negativem Vorzeichen »Zielgerichtetheit« mit der Anzahl belastender Lebensereignisse (ALE). Schlussfolgerung: Die prämorbide Biographie eines Individuums beeinflusst die Empfindlichkeit für Stress und damit das Risiko, an einer affektiven Störung zu erkranken. Die Belastung durch kritische Lebensereignisse und chronische Schwierigkeiten sowie biographische Variablen eignen sich als Prädiktoren für den stationär–klinischen Verlauf depressiver Erkrankungen. Klinische Relevanz: Um die Auslösung einer depressiven Erkrankung durch ein kritisches Lebensereignis bei bekanntem biographischem Risikoprofil zu verhindern, können rechtzeitig präventive therapeutische Maßnahmen ergriffen werden.

Previous research into the causes of burnout has mainly been concerned with external triggers, such as onerous work criteria or organizational or social influences. Factors such as individual reactions and personality have largely been ignored as a possible etiology of burnout. In preparation for a long-term study, this general cross-sectional study investigates the relationship between burnout and personality variables. Different personality variables that have a possible impact on burnout were determined in a number of prestudies. The data were gathered from 119 people working in intensive care units. The Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) was used as well as certain subscales of the following personality questionnaires: Eysenck Personality Inventory (EPI), Inventory of Aggressivity (IA), Trier Personality Questionnaire (TPQ), Scales of Control (SC), Locus of Control (LC), and the Logo-test (LOGO). The scales of mental health, respectively Psychoprotection, external locus of control, and neuroticism, were confirmed as being statistically relevant concerning burnout. The application and significance of this study for future burnout research are discussed.

Despite intensive research in recent decades, the search for the aetiopathogenesis of psychiatric diseases is just as relevant as ever. In recent years, ideas of the aetiopathogenesis of psychotic diseases based on the concept of "vulnerability" in its diverse variations and developments have been gained increasingly ground. The publications of Zubin and associates above all have contributed to a "vulnerability model". According to this descriptive model, schizophrenic disturbances develop as a result of stimuli/irritants or stress factors under modulation of the social and physical environment as well as dependent on the premorbid personality. The increased vulnerability which gives rise to this is perceived as a threshold descensus of the individual towards stimuli/irritants (with a deficit counter--irritants impulses). Apart from that, multi-causality of vulnerability is assumed as the starting point, whereby there is the possibility of several therapy approaches. Moreover, contrary to the prevailing pessimistic view that schizophrenia is a process-type progressive disease, an episodic nature of schizophrenic psychoses is postulated with a prognosis that is indeed positive in the long term. In recent years, although often not explicitly stated, Zubin's concept of vulnerability was also indubitably subjected to various further developments (the vulnerability stress model by Nuechterlein and associates as also the integrative psycho-biological schizophrenia model by Ciompi may serve as examples). Worth mentioning are also various new concepts from system sciences (such as those from cybernetics, synergetics, the chaos theory, the communication theory, structure determinism etc.), which endeavour to clarify the problem of psychosis. The evaluation of central neurophysiological function deviations with schizophrenics and their relations has so far been oriented above all towards the vulnerability model of Zubin and Nuechterlein, which differentiates temporarily relatively stable trait markers with generally unaltered expressivity at the pre-, intra-, and post-psychotic stages as well as episode markers and intermediate markers. However, specific factors contributing to the pathogenesis of schizophrenic disturbances have not as yet been found, in addition, there is still a multitude of methodological problems and distinctive features to fulfill the expectation of a comprehensive concept with which the whole complexity of the occurrence, the progress, and the outcome of psychoses can be explained. Reintroduction of the concept of vulnerability experienced, as Schmidt-Degenhardt put it, "a renaissance in use that appeared almost inflationary and a completely dubious popularisation ... without reference to its historical implications...". Consequently, a critical view of the use of this term would appear to be necessary.

A method to quantify the degree of sensitization on selective corrosion behaviour is the electrochemical potentiokinetic reactivation method (EPR-Method). Due to the potentiokinetic character, however, the application of the EPR-testing method leads to some difficulties. The corrosion is influenced by kinetic effects and electrolytic secondary reactions and shows a huge dependence on time. Therefore a steady state electrochemical reactivation method to quantify the degree of sensitization on selective corrosion behaviour would lead to a reduction of the mentioned problems and the interpretation, comparability and reproducibility of the achieved results would be more simple and clear. This paper presents the first measurements and results which point to a suitable and promising steady state electrochemical testing method.

We have previously shown that in the case of extremely short-lived halocarbon anions RCl − (like CCl 4 − or CFCl 3 − ), one observes the decay of the solvent-separated ion pairs (R + ||Cl − ) instead of the geminate ion recombination between the solvent cation (S + ) and the fragment anion (Cl − ). If the anions live longer (e.g. CHCl 3 − ) then the expected geminate ion kinetics is seen with a primary geminate pair (S + /CHCl 3 − ) and a secondary geminate pair (S + /Cl − ), coupled by the corresponding anion fragmentation rate. Ion pairs like (R + ||Cl − ) represent a product from ion recombination. The t −0.6 kinetic treatment used so far to analyse such geminate ion mechanism now was modified to allow the product from ion recombination to be an optical absorber with e p ≠0. With this theory all the kinetic details of the production of ion pairs (CCl 3 + ||Cl − ) and their decay in the CCl 4 system can now be explained. In order to understand the mechanistic dependence on fast and slow anion fragmentation, the results are compared with additional halocarbons, covering a wider range of anion lifetimes: hexa-, penta- and tetrachloroethane. For CCl 4 the yield of ion pairs is highest and the anion lifetime shortest. The fragment radical CCl 3 is available for charge-transfer from the solvent cations for a very long time. For tetrachloroethane or chloroform the release of the fragment radical R is so late, that the ion pair (R + ||Cl − ) cannot be observed, either due to a rather low efficiency for charge transfer to R, or more likely, because the ion pairs are decaying faster, than they are produced.

Objective: Given the frequency of patients with psychosocial problems and mental disorders in primary care our study focusses on the relationship between the psychosocial qualifications of general practitioners and their management of these patients. Method: A questionnaire was sent to all general practitioners in Hessen asking for sociodemographic and professionrelated data as well as their psychosocial competence and their procedure during a regular day in practice. Based on 396 questionnaires we compared five groups of general practitioners with different psychosocial qualifications, proportionate incidence of diagnoses, medical procedures and referrals to specialists and hospitals. Results: The average age of the participants of our study is 45 years, they have been working for 14 years. 163 general practitioners without and 59 with a special interest in psychosocial qualification and 174 psychosocially qualified physicians participated in the study. Of a total of 65 patients seen during the reference day 18 were diagnosed as suffering from mental disorders. Their number increased with greater psychosocial competence of the physicians. Psychosomatic and reactive disorders are the most frequent mental disorders to be seen in primary care with nearly 60%. Verbal therapy is often applied, procedures of the so-called psychosomatic basic care and prescription of psychotropic drugs play only a minor role. Nearly every fourth patient is referred to other specialists, referrals for inpatient treatment occur with 1.3% only. Discussion: Because of the low response rate our study is not representative. Nevertheless the results permit some conclusions concerning the relationship between psychosocial qualification of general practitioners and their management of patients with mental disorders.

Bei 45 Patienten mit idiopathischem Parkinsonsyndrom wurden die Krankheitsverarbeitung (Freiburger Fragebogen zur Krankheitsverarbeitung, FKV-LIS) und ihre Beziehung zu demographischen und Krankheitsmerkmalen, Kontrolluberzeugungen (Fragebogen zu Kontrolluberzeugungen, IPC) sowie Depressivitat (Depressivitatsskala, D-S) und psychosozialer Anpassung (Social Interview Schedule, SIS) untersucht. Von den 27 Mannern und 18 Frauen mit einem Durchschnittsalter von 56 Jahren und einer mittleren Krankheitsdauer von 9 Jahren wurden vor allem aktive problemorientierte und selbstaufbauende Copingstrategien genutzt und als am hilfreichsten angesehen. Wahrend Alter und Geschlecht nicht mit der Krankheitsverarbeitung assoziiert waren, korrelierten externale Kontrolluberzeugungen positiv mit “depressiver Verarbeitung” und die Krankheitsdauer negativ mit “Ablenkung und Selbstaufbau”. Als maladaptiv angesehene Copingstrategien hingen ebenso wie eine geringe Auspragung internaler Kontrolluberzeugungen mit ungunstigen Werten fur Depressivitat und Zufriedenheit zusammen.

The radical cation of quadricyclane (Q) was studied by pulse radiolysis at 133 K with methylcyclohexane (MCH) as solvent, saturated with N2O. The known solvent radical cations, MCH+ and its precursor M+*, are expected to produce Q+ by charge transfer. Although Q+ was known not to absorb in the visible λ-range, there was a very early absorption band at λmax = 720 nm (the transient is called Q+*), which eventually transformed into the cation of norbornadiene (NBD+) with λmax = 650 nm. The analysis of the geminate ion kinetics with the semiempirical t-0.6 kinetic law revealed that Q+* decays faster than the isomer NBD+ is built up. Q+* must be a precursor to the nonabsorbing Q+, which eventually isomerizes to NBD+, followed by a back reaction with Q to re-form Q+. The quantitative analysis revealed that a substantial amount of the cations is lost before NBD+ is formed. This loss to a fragment or isomer (called F+) occurs from Q+*. As this loss dropped drastically for very low [Q], Q+* must increasingly be by...

The chloroform anion in liquid methylcyclohexane (MCH) fragments during the time scale of geminate ion recombination (143 K ≤ T ≤ 193 K). Its lifetime can only be determined if the geminate ion kinetics can be calculated. The t-0.6 semiempirical law is used. Because CHCl3 quenches M+*, the precursor of the solvent radical cation MCH+, much less effectively than N2O, the fragmentation of M+* to produce the methylcyclohexene cation (MCHene+) has to be considered by theory. The t-0.6 simulation therefore was modified to include the two parallel reactions of the M+* decay, which are forming mixed ion pairs (MCHene+, MCH+/X-). It is found that mixed pairs are still describable by the t-0.6 linearity, yet the mobility factor δ (slope of t-0.6) is now λ-dependent. Complete simulation of the ionic mechanism yields the following results: (1) The fragmentation rate constant for is k1(143 K) = (3.6 ± 0.3) × 106 s-1 with Eact = 4.6 ± 0.5 kJ/mol and logA = 8.2 ± 0.2. The lifetime of 280 ns is substantially larger tha...

We investigated the coping behaviour and its correlation with demographic and illness-related data, depression, locus of control and psychosocial adaptation in 40 patients with intractable epilepsy with primarily or secondarily generalized tonic–clonic seizures. Three standardized self-reporting questionnaires were applied, which are the Freiburg Questionnaire of Coping with Illness (FKV), the von Zerssen Depression Scale (D-S), and the IPC-questionnaire measuring generalized locus of control beliefs; the Social Interview Schedule (SIS), a semi-structured interview, was used to measure the psychosocial adaptation. Active, problem-focused and compliance strategies were predominantly used and regarded as most helpful. Hence, the epileptic patients use similar coping patterns reported in patients with other non life-threatening chronic diseases. The level of depression was moderate and in the range of other chronic somatic diseases. The use of coping patterns, which are regarded as maladaptive, was correlated with distinct depression, a small degree of internal locus of control beliefs and poor psychosocial adaption. These results indicate the possibility to improve psychosocial adjustment by supporting effective strategies.

The t -0.6 rate law by van den Ende et al. (Radiat. Phys. Chem. 22, 55 1984) is one of several methods to describe the kinetics of geminate ion recombination. Due to its simplicity it is a very powerful tool to study geminate ion mechanisms. Complications occur if geminate ions react or fragment. The corresponding theory is given to include one additional ionic reaction and two parallel or two consecutive ionic reactions. The theory is applied to pulse radiolysis results in methylcyclohexane to illustrate the power of the method.

Our purpose in this paper is to show the circumstances and consequences of the extensive growth in employment in the Swiss financial sector that occurred in the 1980s, which are to a large extent responsible for the current patterns of restructuring and dismissal in Swiss banks. Four study areas were chosen: Switzerland as a whole; the city of Zurich; its surrounding suburban regions; and one particular suburban region. All these areas are highly identified with the financial sector. First we evaluate the changes in numbers of employees between 1980 and 1990 and the gender breakdown within different occupational categories in the three study areas. The data for the analysis were gained from the Swiss censuses of 1980 and 1990. Second, we look at the circumstances that caused the suburbanisation of bank back-office functions and the impact on office employment, putting special emphasis on women occupied in clerical–secretarial work. The focus is on one suburban zone around Zurich which experienced the most noticeable growth in office employment of all suburban regions over the last two decades. The findings of this study suggest that the Swiss banks are a male bastion. Women are mainly found in the lower qualified occupations, such as clerical–secretarial work. Moreover, the suburban belt is characterised by a high percentage of women in pink-collar jobs whereas the city is dominated by male employees.

The reactions of cloud water with transition-metal ions may be studies using pivalic acid as buffer and ˙OH scavenger. Commonly used phosphate buffers form strong complexes that may have an important effect on reaction kinetics. Low solubility products limit transition-metal ion concentrations to very low levels (micromolar). With pivalic acid as buffer, we can increase the CuII concentration typically by a factor of 340. At the same time better buffer characteristics and less complex formation is achieved. The scavenger efficiency equals that of tert-butyl alcohol.The rate data and the spectra of pivalic acid radicals have been measured in N2O-saturated solutions of pivalic acid. The acid constant was found to be 4.9 ± 0.1. The rate constants for the reaction of ˙OH with pivalic acid have been re-evaluated: k[(CH3)3CCO2–+˙OH]=(7 ± 2)× 108 dm3 mol–1 s–1 and k[(CH3)3CCO2H +˙OH]= 6.5 × 108 dm3 mol–1 s–1. The importance of including reactions like H˙+˙CH2(CH3)2CCO2H in the reaction model is shown. The rate constants for the recombination of pivalic acid radicals are: k[2˙CH2(CH3)2CCO2H]=(7 ± 1)× 108 dm3 mol–1 s–1, k[˙CH2(CH3)2CCO2H +˙CH2(CH3)2CCO2–]=(7 ± 3)× 108 dm3 mol–1 s–1 and k[2˙CH2(CH3)2CCO2–]=(3.7 ± 0.4)× 108 dm3 mol–1 s–1.

The concise curriculum vitae of the founder of existential analysis is followed by an introduction to the five stages of the development of that psychotherapy: the stage of learning, of practice, of criticism, of the alternative to psychoanalysis and of reconciliation. The criticism aimed especially at Freud's naturalism and at the concept of drive. These concepts were opposed by ontoanalytic doctrines derived from the Heidegger's ontoanalysis. The differences between both psychotherapies were exemplified by a presentation of the treatment of a "hysterical phobia" which was originally explained in psychoanalytic and later in ontoanalytic terminology.

The catalytic decay of O2− radicals due to Cu+ and Cu2+ ions in O2 saturated solutions of low ionic strength was studied by pulse radiolysis and computer simulation of the entire reaction mechanism. Phosphate was used as buffer and formate was used to convert OH radicals into O2−. At pH ≈ 6, the very low solubility products of Cu2+ with OH− and PO43- limited the copper concentration to the order of μM. In experiments with [Cu2+] > [O2−], the rate constant k (Cu2++O2−) = (8.0±0.5)·109 M−1 s−1 was determined. In systems with [O2−]>[Cu]tot, steady state for the copper ions is attained with apparent first-order kinetics, which correlates k (Cu2++O2−) with k (Cu++O2−). The O2− decay rate decreased with increasing pH due to Cu2+ complexation with HPO42-. Correspondingly the pK(CuHPO4) was found to be -4.0±0.2 under the assumption that k (CuHPO4+O2−)≤0.01·k (Cu2++O2−. With this value, k (Cu++O2−) could be determined as (9.4±0.8)·109 M−1 s−1 by an iterative procedure. The consequences for the chemistry of atmospheric waters are discussed.

In Laboruntersuchungen mit synthetischen Gaswassern, welche die Gase Ammoniak, Kohlendioxid, Schwefelwasserstoff und Cyanwasserstoff enthielten, wurde der Einflus der Medienkomponenten auf die Korrosion des Werkstoffs 1.4539, sowie der Nickelbasis-Werkstoffe Hastelloy C-4, C-22 und C-276 untersucht. Schwefelwasserstoff wurde als die korrosionsbestimmende Verbindung identifiziert. Fur den Chromnickelstahl wurden in einem kritischen pH-Bereich bei Sulfid-Konzentrationen > 2% bereits bei 50°C Abtragsgeschwindigkeiten um 2 mm ° a−1 ermittelt. Da Cyanid die Korrosion durch Auflosung sulfidischer Deckschichten durch Komplexierung der Eisenionen stimuliert, wird im kritischen Bereich eine Erhohung der Massenverlustrate bei zunehmender Cyanid-Konzentration gefunden. Die wesentlich bestandigeren Nickelbasis-Legierungen wiesen erst bei Erhohung der Temperatur auf 100°C merkliche Massenverluste nach Auslagerung im Autoklav auf. Die Abstufung in den Verlustraten C-22 >P C-4 > C-276 konnte durch die unterschiedlichen Gehalte an hoherwertigen Legierungselementen erklart werden. Die Uberprufung der Nickelbasis-Legierungen des Typs Hastelloy und der Werkstoffe 1.4539 sowie 1.4571 mit Hilfe des dynamischen Zugversuchs (CERT-Methode) hat in den untersuchten Medien keine Gefahr bezuglich Spannungsriskorrosion aufgezeigt. Die mechanischen Kennwerte, wie Bruchenergie, Bruchdehnung und Brucheinschnurung ergaben im Vergleich zu den in neutralem Medium (Glycerin) gepruften Proben keine Veranderung. Die metallographische Analyse zeigt in Abhangigkeit von der Aggressivitat der flussigen Phase lokale Korrosionserscheinungen im stark verformten Einschnurbereich, der uber Grubchenbildung bis zu begrenzten Oberflachenrissen fuhren. Diese Erscheinungen treten bei allen Werkstoffen etwa gleich ausgepragt auf.

The application of tert-butanol as an OH scavenger in aqueous, oxygenated solutions was studied by pulse radiolysis and computer simulation of the entire reaction mechanism. In such systems, the initially produced tert-butanol radical (· Rtb) reacts with O2 with a rate constant of k = 1.4 · 109 M−1 s−1. The UV absorption-spectrum of the resulting tert-butanol peroxy-radical, · OOR,tb, was determined. The rate constant for its dimerization, 2 · OORtb RtbO4Rtb, is k = 1.8 · 108 M−1 s−1. The formation of HO2 from the decay of RtbO4Rtb has often been neglected in earlier studies. Our reinvestigation showed a yield of 5 ± 2%. In deoxygenated systems we confirmed the rate constant for · Rtb dimerization to be k = 6 · 108 M−1 s−1. The UV spectrum of · Rtb was determined to be slightly different from literature data.

Facial skeletal malformations may not only lead to impaired function, but also diminish psychosocial well-being. Negative social experiences often arise from stereotyped character judgments such as those connected with the profile of the jaw. In this study, 146 orthodontic patients aged between nine and 14 years and student control subjects judged silhouettes of typical Angle class I, II/1 and III profiles on the basis of semantic differential and sociometric choice techniques. Moreover, the satisfaction of the subjects with the appearance of their heads and bodies, as well as their self-perceived personalities, were assessed with the aid of psychological inventories. Class II/1 profiles were characterised as rather shy, reserved, and melancholic, while to class III profiles were attributed reduced social acceptance and less popularity at school. In general, judgement of the silhouette profiles proved to be independent of the judge's own profile. Thus, the existence of trait stereotypes vis-a-vis class II/1 and class III profiles can be confirmed experimentally in children, too. The impact of social stereotypes on psychological well-being, however, is likely to be modified by numerous factors, in particular by social interaction.

The semi-empirical rate law for geminate-ion recombination by van den Ende, Warman, and Hummel, which predicts a linear dependence of the ion concentration with t−0.6, is modified to include simultaneous ion fragmentation. The theory is applied to the kinetics, as observed by pulse radiolysis of liquid methylcyclohexane (MCH) solutions of N2O, CHCl3, or tert-butylchloride (t-BuCl) at low temperatures. In MCH saturated with N2O (−130 °C), the solvent cation (MCH+, λmax = 550 nm) moves about 400 times faster than prediced by diffusion. With the known conductivity data at room temperature, an activation energy of about 2.7 kJ/mol can be derived. The solvent cation MCH+ does not appear to fragment. With t-BuCl added to MCH (−134 °C), MCH+ (λmax = 550 nm) and t-BuCl− (λmax = 450 nm) are observed simultaneously. The initial kinetics corresponds to the parent ion (MCH+) recombination with t-BuCl−. Then the MCH+ fragmentation with k1(−134 °C) = 3 × 105 s−1 is observed, followed by the geminate recombination of some fragment cation with t-BuCl−. The fragment cation recombines 300 times slower than the parent cation. With CHCl3 added to MCH (−130 °C), the MCH+ absorption is hidden within the [Formula: see text] band (λmax = 470 nm); however, the fragmentation is detected from kinetic analysis to occur in about 2 × 106 s−1. The modified t−0.6 rate law appears to be a very useful tool to study simultaneous ion recombination and ion fragmentation.

Despite intensive research in recent decades, the search for the aetiopathogenesis of psychiatric diseases is just as relevant as ever. In recent years, ideas of the aetiopathogenesis of psychotic diseases based on the concept of "vulnerability" in its diverse variations and developments have been gained increasingly ground. The publications of Zubin and associates above all have contributed to a "vulnerability model". According to this descriptive model, schizophrenic disturbances develop as a result of stimuli/irritants or stress factors under modulation of the social and physical environment as well as dependent on the premorbid personality. The increased vulnerability which gives rise to this is perceived as a threshold descensus of the individual towards stimuli/irritants (with a deficit counter--irritants impulses). Apart from that, multi-causality of vulnerability is assumed as the starting point, whereby there is the possibility of several therapy approaches. Moreover, contrary to the prevailing pessimistic view that schizophrenia is a process-type progressive disease, an episodic nature of schizophrenic psychoses is postulated with a prognosis that is indeed positive in the long term. In recent years, although often not explicitly stated, Zubin's concept of vulnerability was also indubitably subjected to various further developments (the vulnerability stress model by Nuechterlein and associates as also the integrative psycho-biological schizophrenia model by Ciompi may serve as examples). Worth mentioning are also various new concepts from system sciences (such as those from cybernetics, synergetics, the chaos theory, the communication theory, structure determinism etc.), which endeavour to clarify the problem of psychosis. The evaluation of central neurophysiological function deviations with schizophrenics and their relations has so far been oriented above all towards the vulnerability model of Zubin and Nuechterlein, which differentiates temporarily relatively stable trait markers with generally unaltered expressivity at the pre-, intra-, and post-psychotic stages as well as episode markers and intermediate markers. However, specific factors contributing to the pathogenesis of schizophrenic disturbances have not as yet been found, in addition, there is still a multitude of methodological problems and distinctive features to fulfill the expectation of a comprehensive concept with which the whole complexity of the occurrence, the progress, and the outcome of psychoses can be explained. Reintroduction of the concept of vulnerability experienced, as Schmidt-Degenhardt put it, "a renaissance in use that appeared almost inflationary and a completely dubious popularisation ... without reference to its historical implications...". Consequently, a critical view of the use of this term would appear to be necessary.

Given the frequency of patients with psychosocial problems and mental disorders in primary care our study focuses on the relationship between the psychosocial qualifications of general practitioners and their management of these patients.A questionnaire was sent to all general practitioners in Hessen asking for sociodemographic and profession-related data as well as their psychosocial competence and their procedure during a regular day in practice. Based on 396 questionnaires we compared five groups of general practitioners with different psychosocial qualifications, proportionate incidence of diagnoses, medical procedures and referrals to specialists and hospitals.The average age of the participants of our study is 45 years, they have been working for 14 years. 163 general practitioners without and 59 with a special interest in psychosocial qualification and 174 psychosocially qualified physicians participated in the study. Of a total of 65 patients seen during the reference day 18 were diagnosed as suffering from mental disorders. Their number increased with greater psychosocial competence of the physicians. Psychosomatic and reactive disorders are the most frequent mental disorders to be seen in primary care with nearly 60%. Verbal therapy is often applied, procedures of the so-called psychosomatic basic care and prescription of psychotropic drugs play only a minor role. Nearly every fourth patient is referred to other specialists, referrals for inpatient treatment occur with 1.3% only.Because of the low response rate our study is not representative. Nevertheless the results permit some conclusions concerning the relationship between psychosocial qualification of general practitioners and their management of patients with mental disorders.

In 45 patients with Parkinson's disease, we investigated coping behavior and its correlations to demographic and disease-related data, locus of control, depression, and psychosocial adaptation. Active, problem oriented, and self-reorganizing strategies were predominantly used and regarded as especially helpful by the 27 men and 18 women (age: 56 years; duration of illness: 9 years). While age and sex were not associated with coping, external locus of control correlated positively to "depressive coping" and duration of illness correlated negatively to "distraction and self-affirmation." Coping strategies regarded as maladaptive and a small degree of internal locus of control correlated to unfavourable results for depression and satisfaction.