Human augmentation using potassium sensors and the UltraLYNX™ power and communication platform
This study aims to improve soldiers' performance by using a special computer (UltraLYNX™) to monitor their bodies. The main goal is to test a device that can sense body changes, send data to the computer, and then give a caffeine patch when needed. It’s about checking if the system works safely, not diagnosing medical conditions. The study also looks at how a mineral called potassium in sweat, along with heart rate and skin activity, changes after someone receives caffeine. They are looking for healthy adults aged 18-40 to take part in a two-hour visit to a lab. Participants will have some measurements taken, including a small blood sample, and then receive a caffeine patch. The study hopes to understand more about how our bodies react to caffeine and exercise.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine a system that could keep an eye on how well your body is doing, especially if you're a soldier needing to perform at your best. This study is exploring just that. Researchers want to see if an existing computer used by soldiers, called UltraLYNX™, can be teamed up with a special device to monitor someone's health and energy levels.
The main idea is to test a new device that can spot changes in your body, send that information to the UltraLYNX™ computer, and then – if needed – automatically give you a caffeine patch. Think of it like a smart system that keeps you performing well. It's important to remember that the main aim here is to make sure this new system works correctly and safely, rather than to make any medical decisions about your health.
On top of that, the researchers are also interested in a mineral called potassium, which can be found in your sweat. They want to see how the amount of potassium changes, along with other body signals like your heart rate, after you’ve had some caffeine. They will also measure how your skin responds. By looking at all these things together, they hope to learn more about how our bodies react to caffeine and physical demands.
Key takeaways
- Researchers are testing a new system for monitoring body performance.
- The study involves measuring physical responses to a caffeine patch.
- It's a single, two-hour visit to a lab at Lancaster University.
- Small blood samples and various sensors will be used.
- Healthy adults aged 18-40 are needed.
- The study aims to improve understanding of human performance.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for healthy adults between 18 and 40 years old, regardless of whether you are male or female. You should not have any long-term medical conditions or be taking prescribed medications regularly. It's also important that you don't use recreational drugs or smoke, and you should not have recently vaped or eaten liquorice.
To ensure your safety and the accuracy of the study, you shouldn't have an intolerance to caffeine or any allergies to sticky plasters or other materials used in the study. If you have a fear of needles or anxiety, this study might not be right for you. You also need to be able to understand English to give your full consent.
For women, you cannot participate if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as caffeine could affect your baby. People with certain health issues like diabetes, epilepsy, glaucoma, or heart rhythm problems are also not able to take part.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 18 and 40 years old?
- Do you consider yourself generally healthy, without long-term medical conditions?
- Are you able to avoid caffeine for 24 hours before your visit?
- Do you prefer not to smoke or use recreational drugs?
- Are you comfortable with a small blood sample being taken?
- Can you understand and speak English well?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll have one visit to the Human Performance Lab at Lancaster University, which will last about two hours. Before your visit, it's a good idea to wear comfortable clothes and avoid all caffeine for 24 hours. For women, a quick urine test will be done to check you're not pregnant, as caffeine isn't safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Your visit will start with reading and signing a consent form, followed by a health check-up. This includes a questionnaire, measuring your height, weight, and blood pressure, and a quick check for heart issues. If everything looks good, you'll continue with the study.
Next, a heart rate monitor will be put on your chest, and a special potassium sensor on your lower back. A small tube, called a cannula, will be placed in a vein in your inner elbow to take a small amount of blood (up to 25ml, which is much less than a typical blood donation). Sensors will also be placed on your fingers to measure skin activity. A caffeine patch, similar to an espresso's caffeine, will then be applied to your skin using a blood pressure cuff to hold it in place. You'll stay seated quietly for a while, and you can read a book to pass the time.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Lancaster UniversityApproximateLancaster, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is the UltraLYNX™ computer?
It's an existing computer platform that soldiers use, and this study wants to see if it can be used to monitor their body performance.
Why are they using a caffeine patch?
The caffeine patch is part of the system being tested. It's a way to deliver caffeine to the body to see how it affects various measurements.
Will I feel sick from the caffeine?
The patch contains a similar amount of caffeine to a single espresso. If you drink coffee regularly, you might not notice much. You can release the cuff and remove the patch if you feel uncomfortable.
How much blood will they take?
They will take a maximum of 25ml of blood, which is a very small amount compared to a regular blood donation.
Who is funding this study?
The study is funded by the Defence and Security Accelerator in the UK, and is run by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (UK).
How to find out more
Christopher Gaffney
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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