Lung function in divers.

Correct lung function is indispensible to perform work underwater. Thus, spirometric tests of lung function remain an important element in the process of selecting candidates for professional diving. Studies conducted in the population of divers identified the phenomenon called 'large lungs', which is often associated with spirometric indices characteristic of obstructive impairment of lung function.

Prevalence of acute respiratory tract diseases among soldiers deployed for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Respiratory diseases are one of the most common health problems among service personnel assigned to contemporary military operations which are conducted in areas characterized by adverse environmental conditions. This article reviews the results of the studies into the prevalence of acute respiratory tract diseases among soldiers of the Polish Military Contingent deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. The article also discusses a number of factors which increase the prevalence of diseases diagnosed in the population of soldiers on a military mission in different climatic and sanitary conditions.

The implementation of factor analysis for the evaluation of selected blood parameter changes induced by hyperbaric exposure.

This paper discusses the application of factor analysis when used to compare selected blood parameter (a three-parameter smear, hematocrit, C3c, C4, IgG, IgA, IgM, CRP, fibrinogen and the level of factor XII) properties, just before, and after exposure to pressure changes, and 24-hours after the completion of decompression. To-date the most popular method of statistical analysis was based only on investigation of the significance of the separated individual parameters. This factor analysis that has not been applied previously in the analysis of such problems, enabled the neutral hierarchic evaluation of the significant parameter changes within their chosen range, and mutual relationships.

[A proposal of the use of selected medical databases and net services as an element of the early epidemiological recognition].

In the paper the actual system of collection and distribution of epidemiological data as well as the threats of national and society security, resulting from delayed reaction to bioterroristic attack are described. Furthermore, the authors' opinion on importance of rapid collection and instant distribution of medical data, potentially useful during the early epidemiological recognition, including the practical use of selected medical databases and net services is presented.