Dr. Michael Decker at CWRU and Dr. Kingman Strohl at University Hospitals are seeking healthy non-smoking adults 18-61 years of age to participate in a study on the effects of supplemental oxygen and altitude changes on the brain. The study takes place on the CWRU/University Hospitals campus in a hypobaric chamber, a room that simulates a high altitude environment by changing the barometric pressure. The first study visit lasts 3 hours and involves cognitive testing inside the hypobaric chamber during oxygen breathing. Barometric pressures in the chamber will simulate sea level, as well as altitudes of 8,000 ft and 15,000 ft. Measurements include fNIRS, which involves wearing a head cap that uses infrared light to take measurements from the scalp. Blood samples are taken from a catheter placed in an artery in the wrist. The second study visit lasts 30 minutes and takes place 2-3 days following the first visit, where a blood sample will be taken from a vein in the arm. Participants will be compensated. Persons taking daily medications for asthma or those with heart disease, seizure disorder, bleeding disorders, or those who experience claustrophobia or who are currently pregnant/attempting pregnancy are not eligible. Please call Elizabeth Damato at 216-368-0218 for more information.
