Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

The present proposal will fund the purchase of a Laser-Doppler blood flow monitoring system. By directing a laser beam into the skin and measuring the amount of scattering due to blood cells moving in vessels next to the skin, the monitor calculates the total rate of blood flow in the skin blood vessels. This information is important because adjustments in skin blood flow changes the rate of heat exchange between the body and the environment, and forms the initial and rapid response to changes in the thermal state of the body. Changes in skin blood flow also provide an indication of the rate of heat transfer from one region to another. The availability of this monitor is critical to Dr. Cheung's research into the effects of extreme hot and cold stress on human physiology and performance, and can lead to advances in ways we cope with sudden or long-term cold exposure in occupational and recreational settings. For example, the monitoring of skin or finger blood flow is critical to gauge the response of workers underneath protective clothing in extremely hot or cold (e.g., astronauts) environments. It can also aid in the design of temperature control systems workers can wear to maintain hand function even in extreme cold. Overall, these research areas have the potential to give important insight into the effects of temperature on human performance and to develop new and innovative solutions to minimize their effects.