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International Journal of Biomedical
Computing (1991), 27(3-4): 277-289.
A computerized test battery for the
assessment of cardiovascular reactivity.
Debski TT,
Kamarck TW,
Jennings JR,
Young LW, Eddy MJ,
Zhang YX.
University of Pittsburgh, School of Medicine, Western
Psychiatric Institute and Clinic, PA 15213-2593.
Recent evidence has suggested a possible relationship between the
tendency to exhibit excessive cardiovascular reactions during
psychological challenge and the risk of cardiovascular disease. Valid
techniques for reliably assessing such reactions are, however, minimally
available. A test battery for the assessment of cardiovascular
reactivity to experimental challenge is currently being developed at the
University of Pittsburgh in conjunction with the University of Miami and
Duke University. An IBM-AT compatible microcomputer is being used for
the concurrent collection of physiological data and presentation of the
laboratory stressors. Digitized cardiovascular data being collected
include EKG, Impedance Cardiogram (ICG), phonocardiogram, and a
peripheral pulse wave measure. Blood pressure readings are also being
collected and stored on disk. The computer presents three challenging
video games, each designed to elicit cardiovascular reactions.
Processing programs are being used and developed for the standardized
scoring of the digitized signals. To assist in epidemiological research
a mobile testing unit has been assembled for the easy administration of
the test battery in varying geographical locations. The test battery
being developed will increase the feasibility of epidemiological and
clinical assessment of stress-induced cardiovascular responses which may
substantiate a link between reactivity and cardiovascular disease.
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