A Non-Dimensional Analysis of Cardiovascular Response to Cold Stress. Part 2. Development of the Non-Dimensional Parameters
Abstract
The thermoregulatory function of the cardiovascular system is extremely complex. Under conditions of cold, the body utilizes a variety of feedback control regulatory mechanisms that attempt both to decrease heat loss to the environment and increase heat production. The primary effector of such control is the cardiovascular system, which has the ability to rapidly change blood flow patterns throughout the body in response to this need. The reaction of the system to a moderately cold stimulus has been studied fairly extensively and is understood quite well. Not so well understood, however, is what happens when one is subjected to extremes of cold, where body reactions can often be quite adverse. Not only is performance greatly restricted in the cold environment due to impaired musculoskeletal function, but a host of pathologic conditions result from the inability of the system to function under extremely low temperatures. This work describes a non-dimensional approach which was taken to describe cardiovascular function. The variables related to properties of blood, the vascular wall, the heart, and the cardiovascular control system were defined using dimensions of mass, length, time, temperature, and charge. From these, a working set of dimensionless parameters was developed using the Buckingham Pi Theorem. This allowed the thermal, mechanical, and chemical properties of the cardiovascular system to be coupled through the non- dimensionalization process. (AW)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA206596
Entities
People
- Daniel J. Schneck
- Sharon A. Starowicz
Organizations
- Naval Medical Research Center