EARLY PERFORMANCE DECREMENT IN PRIMATES FOLLOWING PULSED IONIZING RADIATION
Abstract
Procedure to determine the early effects of ionizing pulsed radiation on primates is described in detail. Data were collected before and after exposure to approximately 12,000 rads, on ten adult male primates (Macaca mulatta) trained in a shock-avoidance behavioral conditioning paradigm. Fatigability and performance efficiency were the two parameters tested. The primates were unable to perform a learned task (i.e., pulling a ring in response to a visual or auditory cue) after exposure to 12,000 rads (performance decrement). The onset time of the performance decrement varied from 1 to 3 minutes after the total dose was delivered, and the duration of the performance decrement varied from 5 to 70 minutes. All animals experienced fatigue during their postexposure work periods. The importance of the rate at which ionizing radiation is delivered--relative to (1) onset time of the decrement, (2) duration of the decrement, (3) severity of the decrement, and (4) homogeneity of biologic effects--is discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0474539
Entities
People
- Edward A. Rice
Organizations
- United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine