Individual Presentation or Panel Title
Effects of Negative Air Ionization on Physiological Measures in a Non-Vulnerable Population
Abstract
Physiological effects of negative air ion exposure were measured in a sample without mood disorders using a pulse monitor and blood oximeter. Twelve female college students ages 18-22 participated in the study for four sessions at thirty minutes each. Blood oxygenation levels were significantly higher in the group exposed to negative ions. Pulse rate did not follow a discernible pattern based on exposure. Rates decreased significantly between the first and second sessions and increased significantly between the second and fourth sessions. Regression analysis of the fourth session yielded significant results in only three participants (one in experimental group and two in the control group). Prior research at Hollins University has indicated that individuals with seasonal affective disorder have a decreased pulse rate in response to negative ion exposure. These findings suggest that individuals without a mood disorder have a physiological response to negative ions, but not the same response or not to the same degree as those who do have a mood disorder, specifically seasonal affective disorder.
Location
Glass Dining Room
Start Date
21-4-2012 3:30 PM
End Date
21-4-2012 4:20 PM
Effects of Negative Air Ionization on Physiological Measures in a Non-Vulnerable Population
Glass Dining Room
Physiological effects of negative air ion exposure were measured in a sample without mood disorders using a pulse monitor and blood oximeter. Twelve female college students ages 18-22 participated in the study for four sessions at thirty minutes each. Blood oxygenation levels were significantly higher in the group exposed to negative ions. Pulse rate did not follow a discernible pattern based on exposure. Rates decreased significantly between the first and second sessions and increased significantly between the second and fourth sessions. Regression analysis of the fourth session yielded significant results in only three participants (one in experimental group and two in the control group). Prior research at Hollins University has indicated that individuals with seasonal affective disorder have a decreased pulse rate in response to negative ion exposure. These findings suggest that individuals without a mood disorder have a physiological response to negative ions, but not the same response or not to the same degree as those who do have a mood disorder, specifically seasonal affective disorder.