Gradient Factors Explained July 19, 2006
Posted by Andy Carroll in : Decompression , add a commentOver at Yorkshire Divers Garf and Mark Powell have collaborated to produce a nice explanation of Gradient Factors. Gradient factors are used in some decompression software packages to adjust the Buhlmann algorithm, usually with the aim of inserting ‘deep stops’.
CNS toxicity in closed-circuit oxygen diving: symptoms reported from 2527 dives. July 18, 2006
Posted by Andy Carroll in : Decompression , add a commentI found this interesting article on a blog called tenfootstop. It covers some research conducted by a group at the Israel Naval Medical Institute in Haifa, Israel and led by Dr.s Arieli, Shochat and Adir. The study examined dives done using a close circuit oxygen rebreather and sampled 2527 dives from 473 divers. The results follow;
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Research suggests Maximum Ascent Rate should be 9 m per min July 13, 2006
Posted by Andy Carroll in : Decompression , add a commentResearchers are recommending that the maximum ascent rate be reduced to 9 mtrs per minutes after a study which examined brain lesions in scuba divers. There theory is that ascent rates above that rate are releated to lesions they found in the nervous system.
Of course, we should already be ascending at speeds below 9 mtrs per min, and we should slow this ascent rate the nearer we get to the surface. This post at divester is a reminder why.
Here’s some info from the Abstract;
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To Exercise or Not to Excercise After a Dive? June 30, 2006
Posted by Andy Carroll in : Decompression, Uncategorized , 1 comment so farWithin my technical diving training and spending many hours reading medical texts, I have always thought the general concensus is that exercising before a dive is fine, but exercising after a dive is a big no no, and empirically I have felt this myself. Whenever I simply chill out and make special efforts not to do anything representing exercise after a dive I have felt better than those times where I have immediately jumped up and hurried around the boat tidying kit away and lifting cylinders about. Obviously me ‘feeling’ better has nothing to do with the bubbles in my system, but it is generally accepted that you could create or aggravate any bubbles by exercising too much after a dive.
Well, this piece of research now suggests that strenuous exercise after dive also reduces bubble formation, therefore turning the whole theory on its head.
Suunto Dive Computers Recalled; Software Bug ‘A Potential Risk to Divers’ June 23, 2006
Posted by Andy Carroll in : Decompression, News, scuba gear , add a comment
Suunto have announced a recall of some D6 and D9 dive computers following the discovery of a software bug. To help spread this around here is the press release in full, and the actions to take are at the bottom;
Quality and safety are paramount concerns for Suunto. Our testing program for the D9 and D6 product by Suunto employees and independent divers all over the world has been extensive.
Despite this, Suunto Oy has identified a software bug in the D9 and D6 instruments. The software bug may cause the D9 and D6 to incorrectly track dive time on rare occasions, potentially causing a risk to the diver.
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DAN America and Chamber Operator, SSS, Reach Settlement April 28, 2006
Posted by Andy Carroll in : Decompression, News , 1 comment so farIt appears that DAN members across America can breathe a sigh of relief that they will be able to get treatment from SSS chambers in the event of emergencies, as they and DAN have settled their previous dispute over treatment fees.
Underwater Times report;
Representatives of SSS announced that DAN America insurance is once again accepted as a result of the resolution of the outstanding claims that were the basis for the lawsuit. The terms of the settlement remained confidential. The SSS Network of Recompression Chambers and DAN America have pledged to work closely together to ensure that injured divers will receive the most appropriate and effective medical care.
