[German Translation of the COPD Self-Efficacy Scale: Development and Validation of a Short Form].

Illness-specific self-efficacy is important in the disease-management of patients with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). Nevertheless, there is no instrument to measure the illness-specific self-efficacy in the German speaking countries. The purposes of the study were to translate the COPD Self-Efficacy Scale (CSES) into German (CSES-D) and to determine the psychometric criteria.

Is an individual prediction of maximal work rate by 6-minute walk distance and further measurements reliable in male patients with different lung diseases?

Background: In patients with chronic lung diseases, the work rate for endurance training is calculated by the maximal work rate (Wmax). Because the assessment bears side effects, a prediction by easier accessible tests would be of practical use.

Objective: We addressed the reliability of predicting Wmax on the basis of the 6-min walk distance (6MWD) test and a set of further parameters in patients with different lung diseases.

Long-term efficacy of pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with occupational respiratory diseases.

Background: Pulmonary rehabilitation is a well-recognized treatment option in chronic obstructive lung disease improving exercise performance, respiratory symptoms and quality of life. In occupational respiratory diseases, which can be rather cost-intensive due to the compensation needs, very little information is available.

Objectives: This study aims at the evaluation of the usefulness of pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with occupational respiratory diseases, partly involving complex alterations of lung function and of the sustainability of effects.

A fuzzy-classifier using a marker panel for the detection of lung cancers in asbestosis patients.

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic power of a fuzzy classifier and a marker panel (CYFRA 21-1, NSE, CRP) for the detection of lung cancers in comparison to asbestosis patients at high-risk of developing lung cancer.

Patients And Methods: A panel of four tumour markers, i.e.