The following definitions will be useful in understanding the research studies dealing with chronic conditions. Cachexia:
A state of ill health, malnutrition and wasting. Cytokines:
Small protein hormones that stimulate or inhibit many normal cell functions such as cell growth and differentiation. Dynamic Strength:
The amount of force that can be generated through motion (example: pressing a weight through the range of motion of the joint). Isometric Strength:
The amount of force that can be generated against an immovable object (example: pressing against a wall). Protein Metabolism:
The process by which proteins are broken down into amino acids which can be utilized by the body. Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction:
Inefficiency in delivering blood from the left ventricle of the heart through the body: a type of chronic heart failure. Postpolio Muscular Atrophy:
New muscular weakness and atrophy which develops in a patient 15 years or more after they experienced an initial attack by the polio virus. Rheumatoid Arthritis:
A chronic inflammatory disorder resulting in joint deterioration. Tumor Necrosis Factor:
A substance that stimulates the killing of microbes at the site of inflammation, also induces fever.