AFRL Partners With Local Health Network for Human Performance Research

  • Published
  • By Christina Wooten, AFRL/RHOR
  • Human Effectiveness Directorate
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  AFRL recently embarked on a collaborative research effort with the Kettering [Ohio] Health Network (KHN) to explore the relationship between human stress and fatigue. The primary intent of this joint venture is to identify viable methods for improving human performance in stressful situations. Though commonplace in the warfighter environment, stress-inducing conditions and resultant fatigue are by no means unique to the military. The outcome of this research endeavor thus promises to aid warfighters and civilians alike.

Made possible through a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement between the Air Force and KHN, the program combines the expertise of health industry, academic, and military domains in pursuing innovative solutions and avoiding duplication of effort across these realms. The result is not only a better-protected warfighter but a better quality of life for many members of the civilian community as well. Just as military personnel enduring lengthy missions with little (or no) rest can benefit from novel counterfatigue measures, so too can sleep-deprived professionals in jobs ranging from surgeon to trucker.

One reason for investigating the value of different fatigue-fighting strategies, such as nutritional supplements and alternate training methods, is to minimize the need for chemical intervention and its potential for side effects. Researchers will also focus on advancing medical imaging techniques, as well identifying individualized diagnostic and treatment options for people in poor health. AFRL fatigue countermeasures expert Dr. J. Lynn Caldwell will assist in leading research activity from offices at the Kettering Medical Center (KMC) laboratory. Under separate agreements, Siemens Medical Solutions will place its latest imaging technology at KMC, and the University of Dayton Research Institute will provide researchers.