Episcleral Venous Pressure Device

The NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) has a requirement to measure changes in episcleral venous pressure (EVP), which may play a role in the development of Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS) in astronauts, yet we do not have a device to measure EVP in humans undergoing spaceflight analogs such as head-down tilt, prolonged bedrest, parabolic flight, or true spaceflight on the International Space Station. The gold standard method is to directly insert a pressure transducer into the vein draining the eye, but this invasive procedure is unsuitable for use in humans. In order to meet this need, the Human Research Program requires a minimally-invasive device able to detect the moment the episcleral vein begins to collapse and does not rely upon a subjective endpoint to determine the correct pressure. This must be performed without the use of an optical slit-lamp, which would prevent measurement in supine or head-down tilt positions. The device must also automate the application of pressure to the eye to eliminate operator bias, which is a major source of potential error. NASA/JSC intends to purchase the items from Dr. Arthur Sit with the Mayo Clinic, as market research indicates Dr. Sit's physical device and software developed is significantly developed towards meeting the requirement and there is no other viable option available that could realistically meet our requirement to support the Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome Ground Analog Countermeasure Study in mid to late-FY2020. The Government intends to acquire a commercial item using FAR Part 12. Interested organizations may submit their capabilities and qualifications to perform the effort in writing to the identified point of contact not later than 4:30 p.m. local time on 5/27/2019. Such capabilities/qualifications will be evaluated solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct this procurement on a competitive basis. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed effort on a full and open competition basis, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the government. Oral communications are not acceptable in response to this notice. All responsible sources may submit an offer which shall be considered by the agency. NASA Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. The Center Ombudsman for this acquisition can be found at http://prod.nais.nasa.gov/pub/pub_library/Omb.html .