Manifestation of Bronchial Hyperreactivity from Exposure to Heavy and Precious Metal Vapors among the Ore Smeltery Workers of Zveçan, Kosovo.

Context: Kosovo is a region in the Western Balkans that is rich in minerals and coal, so pollution is a serious public health problem there. Workers in the heavy and precious metal smeltery in Zveqan, Kosovo, were studied with regard to the roles that vapor from the smelting of metals (Pb, Zn, Au, Ag, P, and Cu) and particulate matter play in causing bronchial hyperreactivity.

Objectives: The purpose of the article was to measure the parameters of lung function as determined by body plethysmography, diagnosis of respiratory diseases, and assessment of respiratory function using a histamine bronchoprovocation test.

Influence of Severe Thoracic Trauma on Choosing the Correct Surgical Strategy in Patients with Polytrauma from Kosovo.

BACKGROUND Severe thoracic trauma (TT) has a significant impact on the selection of treatment strategy in patients with polytrauma. Our aim was to assess the impact of severe TT on choosing the optimal surgical procedure to decrease mortality. MATERIAL AND METHODS Overall, 66 patients with polytrauma and significant TT were analyzed.