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Thomas Adams, Ph.D.

Professor of Physiology Associate Chairperson of Undergraduate Education Ph.D., University of Washington (Seattle)

Research interests are related to defining the physiological and biophysical principles of body temperature regulation, especially as they relate to human heat and cold stress. Additional interests include computer-based problem solving in physiology, basic science and clinical evaluations of acid-base balance, and forensic applications of basic science principles.

Most recent research involves investigation of topics in neurophysiology; temperature regulation and environmental physiology. We have also examined the importance of cranial bone motility in defining total cranial compliance in mammals. These data along with intracranial and spinal subarachnoid space compliance measurements provide information about the mechanisms for pressure buffering of central nervous system tissue. We have also been involved in collecting data from intact human and animal skin to measure the water and electrolyte diffusion mechanisms that determine epidermal hydration. Computer models are developed to describe the time course of transepidermal water diffusion associated with atrichial sweat gland activity and with exposure to humid environments. Additional projects involve measuring quantitatively gastrointestinal motility in experimental animals and in humans. These data are important for understanding the intrinsic and autonomic regulatory pathways in controlling gut motility and for documenting patterns and strengths of sphincteric contraction.

PUBLICATIONS:
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