Operations and Management of Government Owned - Contractor Operated Microwave Exposure Facility. Volume 2. Pulsed Microwave Effects on Rat Blood Pressure and Heart Rate

摘要

Using a specialized waveguide exposure system, the head and neck of 15 Sprague Dawley rats were selectively exposed to 1250 MHz pulsed microwaves. Blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature were continually recorded. Statistical analysis of the physiological parameters that were recorded continuously revealed that during the exposure the animals exhibited no statistically significant change in core or head temperature, while heart rate decreased over 20%. The mean blood pressure remained constant but exhibited a sinusoidal undulation during exposure that was disassociated from heart rate. Cardiovascular parameters returned to normal soon after cessation of exposure. In summary, statistically significant changes were recorded concomitant with microwave exposure. Blood pressure exhibited a heretofore unreported oscillation, disassociated from heart rate. It is possible that this microwave reaction is mediated via baroreceptor cardiodepressor mechanisms. Keywords: Radiation effects; Response biology; Physiological effects. (kt)