Polar physiology on the North Greenland Expedition 1952-54.

Date:
1954
  • Videos

About this work

Description

A report on the studies of human physiology under arctic conditions. The report covers three headings; shelter and clothing; food; adaption. Research on fellow members is carried out and suggestions for future research are discussed. The premise of the expedition is narrated by Lewis as the expedition members disembark and then construct wooden shelters (this effort took a month). The outer garments are described as a man removes each layer (there are many); there is a flap at the back to aid defecation. Food is cooked; the men have to consume may more calories than normal. Outside sledging is hard work. A sledging box is damaged as it capsized; packaging can be improved to prevent spoilage and the problem with weight. The men obtain water from the frozen lake. The men note their sleeping patterns during the dark months in the winter and these are held up to the camera. The observations made relating to adaptation are on weight and increases in subcutaneous fat during the winter months. Basal metabolic observations are made. A 'Harvard pack test' is shown (heart rate measured after exercise with a heavy rucksack).

Publication/Creation

1954.

Physical description

1 videocassette (13:04 min.) (DIGIBETA) : sound, colour
1 DVD (13:04 min.) : sound, colour ; 12 cm

Notes

This film forms part of a group of films donated to the Wellcome Trust in 2006 by The British Medical Association.

Creator/production credits

The Medical Research Council, Division of Human Physiology. Produced by Dr H. E. Lewis and Dr J. P. Masterton. Photography and direction H. E. Lewis. Produced by Macqueen Film Organisation Ltd. Other expedition members credited are P. F. Taylor, C. B. B. Bull, M. E. B. Banks and C. J. M. Slesser for additional photography.

Language note

In English.

Copyright note

Physiological Society.

Type/Technique

Languages

Where to find it

  • Location Access
    Closed stores
    BMAS968

    Note

  • LocationStatusAccess
    Closed stores
    BMAD968

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