Polish Hyperbaric Research Feed

Assessment of the Content of the Main Components of Breathing Mix. Part II

Tue, 13 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

In quantitative instrumental analysis, measurement results are most often obtained in the form of relative analytical signals, which require in the calibration process1 reference to measurement standards2 in order to determine the value of the measured quantity3 with the accuracy and precision needed. The measurement results are influenced by a number of interfering factors that are difficult to define unambiguously and simultaneously4 and which shape the magnitude of systematic errors. These are mitigated by carrying out measurements on test samples and reference samples under conditions that are as close to identical as possible, which allows for the determination of appropriate corrections to the measurement results obtained from the conversion of relative analytical signals. The measurement process, which takes such corrections into account, is considered to be under statistical control, i.e. on the assumption that random components are the dominant component of measurement uncertainty.The articles present a method for estimating measurement uncertainty based on measurement standards, used in instrumental analysis, which is under statistical control of the process. It is illustrated by the determination of the content of the main components of breathing mixtures in diving with the separation of components by gas chromatography using a thermal conductivity detector5.

Chemical Composition of Leachates from Municipal Waste Landfills in Southern Poland

Tue, 13 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The aim of the study was the physicochemical characterization of leachates from two municipal waste landfills located in Upper Silesia (Tychy-Urbanowice and Świętochłowice). In the leachate samples from both locations, 19 key physicochemical parameters were determined. In order to assess the degree of contamination, the obtained concentrations were compared to the limit values for class III groundwater quality in Poland, calculating the Nemerow index for each parameter. The leachates are characterized by an alkaline reaction and a high value of specific electrolytic conductivity. The dominant pollutant in both cases is the ammonium ion, the concentration of which exceeds the class III standard by more than 900 times. Leachates from both tested landfills pose a threat to the environment, mainly due to the very high concentrations of ammonium ion and phosphates. The results of the index calculations emphasize the key role of the efficiency of landfill security systems and the need for constant monitoring to protect water resources.

Chloroquine’s Phototoxicity

Tue, 13 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

A 64-year old Caucasian woman with early rheumatoid arthritis was referred to rheumatologist. She was treated for arterial hypertension with enalapril 10mg/day. She had been smoking 20 cigarettes /day for 44 years. The treatment was started with chloroquine (250mg/day) and methylprednisolone (4mg/day). One week after treatment initiation she came to the clinic with skin redness, edema and blisters on the face. She reported smoking on sunny balcony and skin changes appeared on the first day of treatment. Chloroquine was withdrawn and blisters healed leaving slight discoloration. Chloroquine’s phototoxicity was diagnosed. Phototoxicity is the result of cellular damage caused by a nonimmunological inflammatory mechanism resulting from the chemical or pharmacological structure of used drugs.Conclusion: The use of chloroquine requires sunshine avoidance.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy – Application in the Treatment of Infectious Diseases: A Microbiologist’s and Epidemiologist’s Perspective

Tue, 13 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Hyperbaric medicine is currently a dynamically developing medical discipline. This paper presents the possibilities of applying oxygen therapy in various infectious diseases, as well as in thermal burns, Fournier’s gangrene and diabetic foot syndrome, among others. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) constitutes the primary form of treatment in some disease entities, and in the case of infectious diseases it is useful as adjunctive or alternative therapy.

Studies on Saturation Diving in Poland and Practical Applications of Their Findings Part 8. People

Tue, 13 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This part of the study focuses on the people involved in Polish saturation diving: divers, dive supervisors, coordinators, technical staff and the doctors responsible for overseeing the dives. Moreover, it discusses the requirements for obtaining qualifications to perform specific roles, the career paths of individual practitioners, and distinctions between Polish regulations and those of other countries.

Assessment of the Risk of Central Oxygen Toxicity

Tue, 13 Oct 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Whilst investigating1 the impact of combat operations and air transport on the safety of combat divers, a problem arose concerning the various methods of assessing the probability of the risk of developing the neurological form of oxygen toxicity CNSyn.Most commonly, computer software used for the safe assessment and monitoring of the diving process2 relies on reference to NOAA tables. An interesting alternative approach, particularly in combat missions, is to base the assessment of the risk of CNSyn on models derived from survival analysis.

The Role of a Sports Psychologist in Preparing a Female Athlete for the Paralympic Games

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Sport psychology is a field that is gaining importance in response to the growing demand for a comprehensive approach to athlete development. The conducted study focused on exploring the role of a sport psychologist in preparing a female athlete for the Paralympic Games. The research employed the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) method along with a semi-structured interview technique. The qualitative analysis enabled the identification of key concepts and codes reflecting the psychologist’s influence both within and beyond the domain of physical culture. The findings clearly confirmed the significant role of the sport psychologist in fostering the mental resilience of the athlete under study.

A Case of Cerebral Air Embolism as a Late Complication of Pulmonary Barotrauma in a Diver

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The article describes a correctly diagnosed lung pressure injury in a diver - amateur. The case was initially asymptomatic. Then the symptoms of the central nervous system appeared. A patient effectively treated with the use of air recompression tables - healing decompression and then hospitalized at the 7th Naval Hospital in Gdańsk.

Variability of Selected Physicochemical Parameters in the Coastal Zone of the Mitręga Reservoir

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Retention of clean water in river valleys is possible, among other things, thanks to the construction of water facilities and the adaptation of flat-bottomed river valleys to this by creating embankments. There are many such reservoirs in Upper Silesia (southern Poland). One example of such a reservoir is the Mitręga Reservoir, created at the mouth of the Mitręga River to the Czarna Przemsza. This reservoir also serves as a fishing and recreational area. In 2024, two measurement series were carried out, which included tests of temperature, pH, electrolytic conductivity and chloride concentration in the reservoir. The highest electrolytic conductivity values in the summer series were measured at the mouth of the Mitręga River to the Mitręga Pond (342 μS/cm), and the lowest equal to 293 μS/cm at the outlet of water from the reservoir. In the winter series, the conductivity values were lower and reached 275 μS/cm. In the waters of the reservoir, a large variability of pH and chloride content was observed. The concentration of chlorides exceeded 250 mg/l in some measurement points.

Why Nanopartocles Are the Most Commonly Used Form of Silver in Cosmetic and Medicinal Products?

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Silver is used in cosmetic and medicinal products due to its antibacterial, antifungal, immunostimulating and anti-inflammatory properties.Aim: The aim of the study was to analyze the composition of cosmetic and medicinal products containing silver available on the Polish market. An attempt was made to find an answer to the question what forms of silver and why are most often used by producers of cosmetics and medicinal products.Materials and methods: In the period from September 2023 to February 2024, information was collected on available cosmetic and medicinal products containing silver. Drugstores and stationary pharmacies and their websites were visited. When searching for offers on the Internet, the following words were entered: “cosmetics with silver”, “silver”, “colloidal silver”, “nanosilver”.Results: Information was obtained on 42 cosmetic preparations and 32 medicinal preparations containing silver. The collected cosmetic products containing silver included face masks, body gels, antiperspirant sticks and sprays, shaving gels, aftershave balms, makeup brushes and sponges, combs, toothpastes, nail tincture, tonic, shampoos, gels for washing the face, facial serum, peelings, creams, gels for intimate hygiene, hygienic wipes, soaps, emulsions and body gels, shower gels. Medicinal products containing silver collected included: throat sprays, lozenges, eye drops, solutions, gels, foot sprays, vaginal capsules, spray powder, creams, ointments, emulsions and wart removal sticks, clothing and tourniquets containing silver ions. The forms of silver in cosmetic and medicinal products are most often silver nanoparticles.Conclusion: Medicinal and cosmetic products most often contain silver in the form of nanoparticles for its antimicrobial properties.

Hyperbaric Therapy in COVID-19 and Longcovid Syndrome – A Review of Journal Databases

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This article presents a review of available research on the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in the treatment of acute COVID-19 and long COVID syndrome. The analysis included papers published in peer-reviewed scientific databases and clinical projects registered in international registries. In most clinical reports, including small groups of patients from China, the USA, Israel, and Europe, HBOT was associated with improved oxygenation parameters, reduced need for mechanical ventilation, reduced mortality, and a beneficial effect on neurocognitive functions and symptoms of post-COVID syndrome. The results also indicate the potential of HBOT in mitigating inflammatory processes and improving patients’ quality of life. At the same time, all studies emphasize the limited sample size, lack of standardized protocols, and the need for further randomized controlled trials. The authors highlight the threat posed by the unauthorized use of so-called “soft chambers” for commercial purposes, which do not meet medical standards and may pose a serious risk to patients. The conclusion is that HBOT is a potentially promising therapy, but should currently only be used in controlled clinical trials or in exceptional situations after careful consideration of the benefit-risk ratio.

The Effect of Aflatoxin B1 on Memory Processes, Morphological and Biochemical Blood Parameters of Mice

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Mycotoxins are toxic products of the metabolism of mold fungi common in the environment. Mycotoxins include aflatoxins produced by fungi of the Aspergillus genus. Cereal grains are most often contaminated with aflatoxins, which results from improper storage. Aflatoxins are divided into three groups: B, G and M. Toxins from the first two groups are produced by fungi and occur in the environment, the next group are metabolites of aflatoxins of group B (AFB), present in cow’s milk and dairy products. The strongest effects are demonstrated by: AFB1, AFB2 and AFG1, AFG2. AFB1 metabolism takes place in the liver with the participation of cytochrome P450. Substances are formed that are excreted in urine and bile from the body, as well as adducts that accumulate in the microsomal fraction, combining with nucleic acids and liver proteins. They have mutagenic and carcinogenic effects. The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified AFB1 as carcinogenic to humans. Aflatoxins have immunotoxic effects. A safe dose of mycotoxins has not been determined. Aflatoxin poisoning can be acute or chronic.The aim of the study was to collect data on the mechanisms of the toxic effects of aflatoxin B1 on mammals and to check whether the intraperitoneal route of AFB1 administration can be used to model poisoning with this mycotoxin in laboratory animals.The experiment was conducted on female Albino Swiss mice. The animals were randomly divided into 4 groups of 8. The animals were administered AFB1 intraperitoneally for 28 consecutive days once a day.Group I received AFB1 at a dose of 0.1 LD50 (1 mg/kg b.w.).Group II received AFB1 at a dose of 0.2 LD50 (2 mg/kg b.w.).Group III received AFB1 at a dose of 0.5 LD50 (5 mg/kg b.w.).Group IV received 0.9% NaCl.After the first and last dose, a fresh spatial memory test was performed in the Y-maze. After the experiment was completed, the animals were decapitated.Blood was collected for laboratory tests: morphology and biochemistry.No statistically significant differences were found between groups in memory, peripheral blood count, transaminases, bilirubin, cholesterol, triglycerides, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, creatinine. A statistically significantly lower total protein concentration was demonstrated after the experiments in the AFB1 1 mg/kg group (mean ±SD= 4.9g/dL±0.243) compared to the control group (5.428g/dL±0.278) (p <0.05) and a statistically significant lower urea concentration in AFB11 mg/kg group (39.05mg/dL±0.844) compared to AFB1 5 mg/kg group (49.505mf/dL±4.774) (p<0.05).Conclusion Intraperitoneal exposure to AFB1 does not cause significant abnormalities in morphological or biochemical blood tests. No dose-effect relationship.

The Impact of Selected Adapted Sports on the Quality of Life of People with Physical Disabilities: A Comparative Analysis of Diving and Wheelchair Rugby

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Adaptive sport is a recognized tool for improving the quality of life (QoL) of people with physical disabilities. However, the existing literature rarely delves into diverse impact of specific disciplines. The purpose of this study was to conduct a quantitative comparative assessment of quality of life of four groups of people with physical disabilities: scuba divers (G1), wheelchair rugby players (G2), those active in other sports (G3), and a physically inactive group (G4). The cross-sectional study involved 134 wheelchair users. The WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire was used to assess the quality of life. Statistically significant differences were found between the groups in the domains such as social relationships (p=0.012), environmental (p=0.009) and physical health (p=0.048). The scuba diving group (G1) scored highest in all domains, rating their quality of life in the environmental domain significantly higher than group G3 (p=0.005). Group G3 (“other sports”) rated the domain of social relationships significantly higher than wheelchair rugby players (G2) (p=0.007). The type of sport practiced is a significant factor that differentiates the impact in various aspects of the quality of life. Scuba diving, due to the unique properties of the aquatic environment, may offer exceptional psychophysiological benefits. In contrast, the confrontational nature of rugby, despite the advantages of teamwork, may influence the perception of social relationships differently.

Preliminary Technical Risk Analysis for Heliox Training Saturation Dives Carried Out in Ktpp Amw Part II

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 00:00:00 GMT

The safe implementation of saturation dives in KTPP AMW1 in accordance with the plan of professional development in SZRP realised at the experimental deep-sea diving complex DGKN – 1202 requires an assessment of potential inherent technical risks in order to identify, quantify and prioritise potential hazards of the saturated hyperbaric exposure process. The process is impacted by a considerably vast number of factors, the relative values of which should be kept at an acceptable level. In certain cases, even despite corrective measures, control over them may not be optimal and fully implemented. In such cases, the elements in question become elements of the residual risk of the saturation exposure process using the DGKN-120 habitat. An acceptable level of safety for diving using technical means should be guaranteed and the hazards identified during an iterative and systematic analysis of the residual risk of the process under consideration.

The Accidents in Hyperbaric Chambers – Retrospective Analysis

Sat, 29 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a well-established medical intervention with documented clinical benefits. Nevertheless, the operation of hyperbaric chambers involves significant safety risks, particularly the potential for fire and explosion in high-oxygen environments. This study provides a retrospective analysis of extraordinary incidents associated with hyperbaric chamber operation, with the objective of identifying primary causes, consequences, and effective preventive strategies.Methods: This study was conducted as a narrative review of available scientific and grey literature. Eleven documented incidents meeting the specified inclusion criteria were evaluated. Data were organized by time and geographical location, aetiology, technical parameters of the equipment, consequences, and safety measures implemented. The data were then subjected to qualitative comparative analysis.Result: Of the 11 events analyzed, 72.7% were attributed to fire or explosion resulting from sparks or non-compliance with oxygen safety protocols. Technical malfunctions accounted for 54.5% of cases, and human error contributed to 27.3%. These incidents resulted in 31 human fatalities and one animal fatality. The analysis identified the absence of a unified international incident reporting system as a barrier to effective prevention and knowledge dissemination. Conclusion: Mitigation of safety risks associated with HBOT requires the implementation of a unified global incident reporting system, comprehensive technical inspections, mandatory staff training, and explicit standards for non-clinical facilities. Systematic risk management and international collaboration are essential to improve the safety of both patients and personnel.

Effect of Patulin Poisoning on TNF-α Levels in Mouse Livers

Sat, 29 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Patulin is a mycotoxin mainly produced by Penicillium expansum, widely distributed in the environment, and commonly found in spoiled fruits, especially apples. This compound exhibits multiple toxic effects, including hepatotoxic, nephrotoxic, neurotoxic, and immunosuppressive activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of patulin on the concentration of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α in the livers of Albino Swiss mice following intoxication with various doses of the toxin. The animals were divided into six groups and administered patulin intraperitoneally in both acute and chronic doses. Analysis of TNF-α levels showed a significant increase in this cytokine in groups receiving a single dose of 0.5 LD50 and 0.2 LD50 of patulin. No significant changes were observed after chronic administration of a 0.1 LD50 dose. The results suggest that patulin toxicity may be associated with an enhanced inflammatory response in the liver, depending on the magnitude and nature of the dose.

The System of Disability Assessment and Socio-Vocational Rehabilitation in Poland Based on the Example of the Lublin Voivodeship: An Analysis of Challenges and Directions for Development

Sat, 29 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Introduction: The Polish support system for persons with disabilities is fragmented across six distinct assessment regimes, which generates administrative barriers and hinders effective socio-vocational rehabilitation. The Lublin Voivodeship, a region with one of the highest disability rates in the country (≈14% of the population), serves as a valuable case study illustrating the accumulation of problems typical for the entire state.Aim: The aim of this review was to conduct an interdisciplinary analysis of the system of disability assessment and rehabilitation mechanisms in Poland, with consideration of their implementation in the Lublin Voivodeship, to identify key challenges, and to formulate directions for development consistent with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.Material and methods: A qualitative review was conducted, encompassing scientific literature, legal acts, governmental and local government strategies, reports from the Supreme Audit Office (NIK), the Commissioner for Human Rights (RPO), Statistics Poland (GUS), and data from the State Fund for Rehabilitation of Disabled Persons (PFRON) and the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS) for the years 2019-2024. The analysis was supplemented with regional BAEL (Labour Force Survey) indicators. A critical comparative method was applied, confronting the medical model of assessment with the functional paradigm of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).Results: The study found that: (1) the fragmentation of the assessment system forces multiple procedures and prolongs waiting times for decisions; (2) the dominance of the medical approach limits the personalization of support; (3) the effectiveness of rehabilitation is low – the employment rate for persons with disabilities in the Lublin Voivodeship is 27-28% compared to 75% for the general population; (4) the allocation of PFRON funds is concentrated on care and therapeutic forms at the expense of vocational activation (≈6% of funds).Conclusions: The key directions for reform are: the integration of assessment systems into a unified structure, the full implementation of the ICF functional assessment, the introduction of a ‘case-management’ model in rehabilitation, and increased funding directed towards supported employment. The implementation of these recommendations requires coordinated action by governmental, local government, and non-governmental organizations, and in peripheral regions – the strengthening of mobile and digital forms of service delivery for beneficiaries.

Testing of the Argo Rescue Device in Simulated Marine Environment Conditions

Sat, 29 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

This material is a continuation of previously published works related to the construction of a rescue device for the ARGO profiling float. Earlier publications presented design variants of such a device. Moreover, previous publications present a multi-criteria analysis of the developed designs, which resulted in the selection of a variant for construction. This material describes the course and results of preliminary laboratory tests of a technology demonstrator for such a device, which confirmed its design assumptions and form the basis for planning further experiments in conditions that more closely reflect real-life conditions. The work is being carried out as part of the Argo-Poland consortium, which is part of the European research infrastructure

Good Waters Status as One of Quality Factors of Life in Small Communes

Sat, 29 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Enabling citizens to live in more sustainable cities that guarantee well-being and comfortable living conditions is a significant challenge of the 21st century. Factors affecting urban health have components relative to health issues, social, economic and environmental aspects. One of the factors in the last group is access to water with appropriate quality parameters. This is particularly important in small communes that are located in the area of karst aquifers which can be problematic because of unstable discharge regimes and high vulnerability to pollution. Research conducted for waters in the Halszka spring (Niegowa commune, southern Poland) indicate that the quality of these waters is very good, and the only health hazard can be the alkalinity (about 250 mgCaCO3/l). Since there are many users of such water, it should be subject to constant quality monitoring and resource protection.

CO2 Monitoring in Space Simulations for Future Bioregenerative Life Support Systems

Sat, 29 Aug 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Regulation of carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentration is a key factor in maintaining safety and habitability in isolated environments. Elevated CO₂ levels are known to impair cognitive functions, disrupt physiological homeostasis, and increase long-term health risks for crew members during extended missions in isolation. Although numerous chemical and mechanical methods exist for removing excess CO₂ from enclosed spaces, they can be unreliable due to wear, system degradation, or limited resources. These limitations highlight the need for sustainable life support strategies. Although the main principles are known in general, there is a missing gap regarding the crew composition. In this work, we focused particularly on this parameter to determine how biodiversity in humans, especially circadian rhythms in confined space, affects levels of CO₂ in isolated environments [1].Data from twelve analog space mission simulations conducted in the AATC habitat, with a total usable area of 57 m², were analyzed to evaluate different operational and crew scenarios. Correlations between environmental and physiological data were taken into account.The results show that variations in crew size, metabolic activity, and life support system efficiency significantly influence atmospheric stability. The findings provide quantitative guidelines for defining safe operational thresholds, optimizing CO₂ scrubber placement, and developing redundancy strategies within Environmental Control and Life Support Systems (ECLSS). This study contributes to the development of resilient life support architectures for future long-duration crewed missions in isolated environments.