[Role of human olfaction in detection of space vehicle air contamination by gases emitted during thermal destruction of polymers].

The paper deals with the ability of human olfaction to identify odours associated with thermal destruction of polymers. The investigations confirmed the ability of early detection of equipment overheating and subjective odour evaluation using the 5-point intensity scale and calculating the relation of odour intensity to the maximum admissible concentration of volatile chemical contaminants aboard piloted space vehicles. Emission of gases by polymers in electrical equipment starts with heating temperature rise to 100 degrees C.

[Comparative evaluation of Russian and foreign methods of off-gas testing of polymer materials].

Comparative evaluation of Russian and foreign (NASA/USA) off-gas tests for polymers proposed for use onboard the NASA space vehicles was fulfilled with a polymer hardware model. Qualitative and quantitative composition of gases emitted in the model was determined with the gas-chromatographic technique. Data of the evaluation allow the suggestion that informational capacity of the NASA technique is insufficient for making conclusions on suitability of a polymer or a device for long-operating manned vehicles.

[Radiographic evaluation of the clinical course and outcome in acute pneumonias].

The authors review the data of x-ray functional examinations of 525 patients with acute parenchymatoys pneumonia, 393 convalescents after pneumonia 3-6 months after the disease and analyze 480 case histories of patients, hospitalized for acute pneumonia 10 years ago. Development, x-ray picture, and resolution of the process are described. Besides traditional x-ray examination, roentgenography in oblique projections and pulmonary sonography are recommended in order to specify the anatomic changes in the lungs.

[Toxicological evaluation of health risk of local fire in a closed environment].

Local fire in an enclosed environment was simulated, and the composition and toxicity of compounds outgassed by the polymers were investigated. Highly toxic compounds, e.g.