Evaluating Q-Collar Effects on Cerebrovascular Control in Response to Exercise

We are doing this research to improve our understanding of how a FDA-cleared device, called the Q-Collar, affects brain blood flow regulation both at rest and in response to exercise. Participants will be asked to complete two study visits over a period of 1 to 4 weeks. Each visit will involve identical assessments, with the Q-Collar worn during one session and not during the other. The order of the sessions will be randomly assigned.

Each visit consists of three main tasks:

Standing Test (approximately 10 minutes): Participants will perform a series of movements, standing up from a seated position, while heart rate, breathing, and brain function are monitored. This test will be repeated three times per session.

Resistive Breathing Test (approximately 10 minutes): Using a mouthpiece that controls breathing difficulty, participants will breathe at specific depths and rates while sensors track gases, heart, lung, and brain activity. This task will be completed once per session.

Stationary Biking Exercise Test (approximately 30 minutes): Participants will perform an exercise test on a stationary bike while monitors measure heart rate, breathing gases, blood pressure, and brain blood flow. The test begins with a 2-minute warm-up, followed by progressively more challenging pedaling, with resistance adjusted based on body weight. Difficulty increases every 1 to 2 minutes until the required pace can no longer be maintained. Periodic ratings of exertion will be recorded. The session concludes with a 2-minute cool-down after maximum effort is reached.