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An update from Base Camp
Following our arrival at Base Camp, we began the scientific experiments by testing ourselves. This included microcirculation and nitric oxide studies, cardiopulmonary exercise testing and muscle biopsies. This was logistically very difficult as, not only was it extremely cold (reaching lows of -28 degrees C) resulting in our equipment misbehaving on numerous occasions, but organising our investigators to test each other on the various pieces of equipment proved extremely complex.
Once our investigator testing was complete, our first trekkers to reach Base Camp were the Sherpa treks A, B and C. This provided us with invaluable information about the differences between Sherpa and lowlander physiology. Following this we had Treks D, E and F join us. Again, we were able to gain fantastic data from these subjects and are extremely grateful for their hard work. The Champion Trek was next to reach Base Camp and we conducted an experiment called the Whole Body Nitrate study which involved taking repeated blood and saliva samples late into the night which was a little chilly (!) but the trekkers were brilliant and completed the experiment without complaint. Currently, we are in the midst of testing Trek G, a trek of 7 westerners and 7 Sherpas.
Since the main investigator team arrived we have been working very hard testing ourselves and the trekkers. However, we have managed to have a few days off. Free time is generally spent tidying personal tents, doing some washing or having a well earned bucket shower! Some of the team conquered Kala Patar, others have taken day trips to Gorak Shep to stretch their legs and we have explored Pumori base camp.
Everest base camp has changed greatly since the logistics team arrived over 6 weeks ago. Xtreme Everest 2 were the first team to arrive at base camp, now there is a metropolis of hundreds of tents sprawling over the glacier. With over 40 teams hoping to reach the summit this year, the number of climbers tackling the treacherous Khumbu Ice Fall early before sunrise gets greater every day. We wish all the climbers a safe and successful trip to the summit.
Ali Cobb
Laboratory Manager, Everest Base Camp
Created 19th Apr 2013 |
EBC Investigators 2
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