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Perfetti-Bolaño A, Muñoz K, Kolok AS, Araneda A, Barra RO. Analysis of the contribution of locally derived wastewater to the occurrence of Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products in Antarctic coastal waters. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 851:158116. [PMID: 35988631 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCPs) are emerging pollutants detected in many locations of the world including Antarctica. The main objective of this review is to discuss the influence of the human population on the concentration, distribution and biological effects of PPCPs across the Antarctic coastal marine ecosystem. We carried out a review of the scientific articles published for PPCPs in Antarctic, supported by the information of the Antarctic stations reported by Council of Managers of National Antarctic Programs (CONMAP), Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) and Secretariat of the Antarctic Treaty (ATS). In addition, spatial data regarding the Antarctic continent was obtained from Quantarctica. Antarctic concentrations of PPCPs were more reflective of the treatment system used by research stations as opposed to the infrastructure built or the annual occupancy by station. The main problem is that most of the research stations lack tertiary treatment, resulting in elevated concentrations of PPCPs in effluents. Furthermore, the geographic distribution of Antarctic field stations in coastal areas allows for the release of PPCPs, directly into the sea, a practice that remains in compliance with the current Protocol. After their release, PPCPs can become incorporated into sea ice, which can then act as a chemical reservoir. In addition, there is no clarity on the effects on the local biota. Finally, we recommend regulating the entry and use of PPCPs in Antarctica given the difficulties of operating, and in some cases the complete absence of appropriate treatment systems. Further studies are needed on the fate, transport and biological effects of PPCPs on the Antarctic biota. It is recommended that research efforts be carried out in areas inhabited by humans to generate mitigation measures relative to potential adverse impacts. Tourism should be also considered in further studies due the temporal release of PPCPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Perfetti-Bolaño
- Facultad de Ciencias Ambientales y Centro EULA-Chile, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción 4070386, Chile.
| | - Katherine Muñoz
- Institute for Environmental Sciences, University of Koblenz-Landau, Landau 76829, Germany
| | - Alan S Kolok
- Idaho Water Resources Research Institute, University of Idaho, 875 Perimeter Drive, MS 3002, Moscow, ID 83843, USA
| | - Alberto Araneda
- Facultad de Ciencias Ambientales y Centro EULA-Chile, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción 4070386, Chile
| | - Ricardo O Barra
- Facultad de Ciencias Ambientales y Centro EULA-Chile, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción 4070386, Chile; Instituto Milenio en Socio Ecología-Costera (SECOS), Santiago, Chile
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2
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Bruzzi RS, Moraes MM, Martins YAT, Hudson ASR, Ladeira RVP, Núñez-Espinosa C, Wanner SP, Arantes RME. Heart rate variability, thyroid hormone concentration, and neuropsychological responses in Brazilian navy divers: a case report of diving in Antarctic freezing waters. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2022; 94:e20210501. [PMID: 35648992 DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765202120210501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Open-water diving in a polar environment is a psychophysiological challenge to the human organism. We evaluated the effect of short-term diving (i.e., 10 min) in Antarctic waters on autonomic cardiac control, thyroid hormone concentration, body temperatures, mood, and neuropsychological responses (working memory and sleepiness). Data collection was carried out at baseline, before, and after diving in four individuals divided into the supporting (n=2) and diving (n=2) groups. In the latter group, autonomic cardiac control (by measuring heart rate variability) was also assessed during diving. Diving decreased thyroid-stimulating hormone (effect size = 1.6) and thyroxine (effect size = 2.1) concentrations; these responses were not observed for the supporting group. Diving also reduced both the parasympathetic (effect size = 2.6) and sympathetic activities to the heart (ES > 3.0). Besides, diving reduced auricular (effect size > 3.0), skin [i.e., hand (effect size = 1.2) and face (effect size = 1.5)] temperatures compared to pre-dive and reduced sleepiness state (effect size = 1.3) compared to basal, without changing performance in the working memory test. In conclusion, short-term diving in icy waters affects the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis, modulates autonomic cardiac control, and reduces body temperature, which seems to decrease sleepiness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rúbio S Bruzzi
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Escola de Educação Física, Fisioterapia e Terapia Ocupacional, Laboratório de Fisiologia do Exercício, Av. Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Michele M Moraes
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Escola de Educação Física, Fisioterapia e Terapia Ocupacional, Laboratório de Fisiologia do Exercício, Av. Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Patologia, Av. Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (NUPAD- FM/UFMG), Núcleo de Ações e Pesquisa em Apoio Diagnóstico, Rua Alfredo Balena, 189, 30130-100 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Ygor A T Martins
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Escola de Educação Física, Fisioterapia e Terapia Ocupacional, Laboratório de Fisiologia do Exercício, Av. Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Alexandre S R Hudson
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Escola de Educação Física, Fisioterapia e Terapia Ocupacional, Laboratório de Fisiologia do Exercício, Av. Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Roberto V P Ladeira
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (NUPAD- FM/UFMG), Núcleo de Ações e Pesquisa em Apoio Diagnóstico, Rua Alfredo Balena, 189, 30130-100 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Cristian Núñez-Espinosa
- Universidad de Magallanes, Escuela de Medicina, Laboratorio de Fisiología, Avenida Bulnes, Punta Arenas, Chile
| | - Samuel P Wanner
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Escola de Educação Física, Fisioterapia e Terapia Ocupacional, Laboratório de Fisiologia do Exercício, Av. Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Rosa M E Arantes
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Patologia, Av. Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (NUPAD- FM/UFMG), Núcleo de Ações e Pesquisa em Apoio Diagnóstico, Rua Alfredo Balena, 189, 30130-100 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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3
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Spinelli E, Werner Junior J. Human adaptative behavior to Antarctic conditions: A review of physiological aspects. WIREs Mech Dis 2022; 14:e1556. [PMID: 35419979 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The Antarctic environment induces adaptive metabolic and neuroendocrine changes associated with survival, as well as increased risks to physical and mental health. Circadian disruption has been observed in Antarctic expeditioners. The main consequences appear in quality of sleep, which can affect physical and cognitive performance. Physiological adaptation to cold is mediated by the norepinephrine and thyroid hormones (T3 and 3,5-T2 metabolite). The observed changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis of expeditioners varied according to temperature, photoperiod, time spent in the cold environment and stress level. The decrease in T3 levels has frequently been associated with mood swings. Psychological and physical stressors cause disturbances in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, with consequent maintenance of high cortisol levels, leading to memory impairment, immunosuppression, and cardiometabolic and reproductive disorders. Preventive measures, such as provision of adequate food, well-established eating times, physical activity and even the use of phototherapy, can all help maintain the circadian rhythm. In addition, the use of high-tech clothing and room temperature control in research stations provide greater protection against the effects of intense cold. However, psychological stress requires a more individualized approach based on the crew's sociocultural characteristics, but it can be mitigated by mental healthcare and training in coping strategies. This article is categorized under: Cardiovascular Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology Cardiovascular Diseases > Environmental Factors Metabolic Diseases > Environmental Factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliani Spinelli
- School of Pharmacy, Fluminense Federal University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Kang JM, Cho SJ, Cho SE, Bang T, Chae BD, Yi E, Bae SM, Na KS, Jung J, Kang SG. Mood and Sleep Status and Mental Disorders During Prolonged Winter-Over Residence in Two Korean Antarctic Stations. Nat Sci Sleep 2022; 14:1387-1396. [PMID: 35982827 PMCID: PMC9379312 DOI: 10.2147/nss.s370659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Antarctica is a region with extreme climate, characterized by extreme cold and photoperiod. No research has been conducted on the mental health of Korean Antarctic dispatchers. The aim of this study was to investigate the status of mental illness and changes in mood and sleep among Korean crew members staying for a long-term period in the Antarctic station. METHODS From 2017 to 2020, crew members who were dispatched from South Korea to two Antarctic stations for a one-year period participated in this study. The crew were evaluated for mood and sleep status and mental illness through psychological tests and interviews by board-certified psychiatrists once before departure and twice during their stay in Antarctica. The incidence of mental illness was confirmed and changes in sleep and depression were analyzed. RESULTS A total of 88 participants were included in the final analysis, and 7 of them (8.0%) were diagnosed with mental disorders such as insomnia in early winter. The total Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) score increased significantly in the early winter period, and the total Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Inventory (PSQI) scores increased in both early and late winter. The difference in changes in mood and sleep symptoms before, during, and after dispatch between the two stations was not significant. CONCLUSION This is the first study to investigate the mental illness and mood and sleep status of Korean crews dispatched to Antarctica. In early winter, there were significant increases in mental illness and depressive symptoms, and a worsening of sleep status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Myeong Kang
- Department of Psychiatry, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Jin Cho
- Department of Psychiatry, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo-Eun Cho
- Department of Psychiatry, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Taemo Bang
- Artificial Intelligence and Big-Data Convergence Center, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Do Chae
- Unit of Frontier Exploration, Korea Polar Research Institute, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eojin Yi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Min Bae
- Department of Psychiatry, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung-Sae Na
- Department of Psychiatry, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaehun Jung
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Gul Kang
- Department of Psychiatry, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Republic of Korea
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Goncharova N, Chigarova O, Oganyan T. Age-related and individual features of the HPA axis stress responsiveness under constant light in nonhuman primates. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1051882. [PMID: 36699023 PMCID: PMC9870316 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1051882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is a key adaptive neuroendocrine system, dysfunction of which plays an important role in the increasing incidence of stress-dependent age-related pathology. Among the environmental factors effecting increase age-related diseases, great importance is given to disturbances of the light-dark schedule, particularly with increased illumination at night. While disruption of the light-dark schedule has long been recognized as a powerful behavioral stressor, little is known regarding stress reactivity of the HPA under constant light (CL) conditions, especially with aging and depending on the features of stress behavior. The purpose of this investigation was to study the age-related and individual features of the HPA axis response to acute stress exposure (ASE) under chronic CL in nonhuman primates that are known to differ in behavioral responsiveness to stress. Young and old female rhesus monkeys (with control standard behavior or anxiety and depression-like behavior) were exposed to CL (24 h light/day, 330-400 lux for 4 to 8 weeks). Control young and old monkeys were exposed to standard lighting (SL) with natural light during the day and darkness at night. All animals were subjected to ASE (restriction of mobility for 2 hours), functional tests with corticotrophin-releasing hormone and arginine-vasopressin, and study of circadian rhythms of cortisol and pineal melatonin secretion. For the first time an inhibitory effect of CL on the reaction of the adrenal cortex to ASE was revealed in all individuals, regardless of age and preexisting behavior stress reactivity, the mechanisms of which were age-dependent: due to inhibition of the pituitary ACTH secretion in young animals and mainly not affecting the ACTH secretion in old individuals. There were no significant changes in melatonin secretion both in young and old animals. The observed CL inhibition of adrenal cortical reactivity to ASE may be useful to correct increased vulnerability to ASE observed in individuals with preexisting anxiety and depression-like stress behaviors. On the other hand, the CL induced decrease in adrenal stress reactivity of behaviorally normal animals suggests a potential risk of reducing the adaptive capacity of the organism under conditions of continuous light exposure.
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Wolak RJ, Johnson JC. Social dynamics in an isolated, confined, and extreme workplace. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2021; 65:437-451. [PMID: 33230641 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-020-02043-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
There can be few indoor workplaces that are more subject to the meteorological and atmospheric conditions of their locations than permanent stations on the high, inland polar plateau of Antarctica. The US Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station is such a workplace, totally isolated during the 8-9 months of the austral winter, more than 800 miles (1287 km) from the nearest other human habitation. The wintering party at the South Pole must deal with all the demands and stressors of an isolated, confined, and extreme environment without the prospect of relief from the outside world. In 1975, the seventeen men chosen to winter at the South Pole had an additional challenge. In February, as the austral winter was about to begin, a new geodesic-domed research station had just been completed. The station was the first of its kind, and the vagaries of its design and construction would be significant factors in the health and well-being of station residents as winter progressed. Potential physical and psychological problems from isolation literature are commented upon, and some significant events from this noteworthy winter are described. In addition, supporting quantitative data from current research at South Pole are used to better understand these events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Wolak
- First Year Programs & Learning Communities, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA.
| | - Jeffrey C Johnson
- Department of Anthropology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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Çotuk HB, Duru AD, Aktaş Ş. Monitoring Autonomic and Central Nervous System Activity by Permutation Entropy during Short Sojourn in Antarctica. ENTROPY 2019. [PMCID: PMC7515415 DOI: 10.3390/e21090893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to monitor acute response patterns of autonomic and central nervous system activity during an encounter with Antarctica by synchronously recording heart rate variability (HRV) and electroencephalography (EEG). On three different time-points during the two-week sea journey, the EEG and HRV were recorded from nine male scientists who participated in “The First Turkish Antarctic Research Expedition”. The recordings were performed in a relaxed state with the eyes open, eyes closed, and during a space quantity perception test. For the EEG recordings, the wireless 14 channel EPOC-Emotiv device was used, and for the HRV recordings, a Polar heart rate monitor S810i was used. The HRV data were analyzed by time/frequency domain parameters and ordinal pattern statistics. For the EEG data, spectral band power in the conventional frequency bands, as well as permutation entropy values were calculated. Regarding HRV, neither conventional nor permutation entropy calculations produced significant differences for the different journey time-points, but only permutation entropy was able to differentiate between the testing conditions. During the cognitive test, permutation entropy values increased significantly, whereas the conventional HRV parameters did not show any significant differences. In the EEG analysis, the ordinal pattern statistics revealed significant transitions in the course of the sea voyage as permutation entropy values decreased, whereas spectral band power analysis could not detect any significant difference. Permutation entropy analysis was further able to differentiate between the three testing conditions as well between the brain regions. In the conventional spectral band power analysis, alpha band power could separate the three testing conditions and brain regions, and beta band power could only do so for the brain regions. This superiority of permutation entropy in discerning subtle differences in the autonomic and central nervous system’s responses to an overwhelming subjective experience renders it suitable as an analysis tool for biomonitoring in extreme environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. Birol Çotuk
- Department of Sport Health Sciences, Marmara University, 34810 İstanbul, Turkey;
- Correspondence:
| | - Adil Deniz Duru
- Department of Sport Health Sciences, Marmara University, 34810 İstanbul, Turkey;
| | - Şamil Aktaş
- Department of Underwater and Hyperbaric Medicine, İstanbul University, 34093 İstanbul, Turkey;
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Stahl MH, Kumar A, Lambert R, Stroud M, Macleod D, Bastawrous A, Peto T, Burton MJ. Antarctica eye study: a prospective study of the effects of overwintering on ocular parameters and visual function. BMC Ophthalmol 2018; 18:149. [PMID: 29940901 PMCID: PMC6019514 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-018-0816-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2013 five polar explorers attempted to complete the first Trans-Antarctic Winter Traverse (TAWT). This study presents the ophthalmological findings for this group, who overwintered in Antarctica as part of the White Mars Human Science Protocol. Antarctic crews are exposed to extreme cold, chronic hypoxia and altered day-night cycles. Previous studies of Antarctic explorers have focused on the prolonged effect of ultraviolet radiation including the development of ultraviolet keratitis and accelerated cataract formation. This is the first study of its kind to investigate the effect of overwintering in Antarctica on the human eye. METHODS Pre and post-expedition clinical observations were made including visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, colour vision, auto-refraction, subjective refraction, retinal examination, retinal autofluoresence and retinal thickness, which were graded for comparison. During the expedition additional observations were made on a monthly basis including LogMAR visual acuity, autorefraction and intraocular pressure. RESULTS No significant differences between pre and post-expedition observations were found, including visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, colour vision, refraction, visual fields, intraocular pressure and retinal examination. There was a small but statistically significant decrease in retinal thickness across all regions of the retina, except for the macular and fovea, in all explorers. Intra-expedition observations remained within normal limits. CONCLUSION Reassuringly, the human eye remains largely unchanged by exposure to the extreme conditions encountered during the Antarctic winter, however, further research is needed to investigate changes in retinal thickness. This may have implications for scientists who spend prolonged periods of time in the polar regions, as well as those who have prolonged exposure to the extreme cold or chronic hypoxia in other settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew H. Stahl
- University College London, London, UK
- Department of Medicine, Wexham Park Hospital, Wexham, Slough, SL2 4HL UK
| | - Alexander Kumar
- King’s College London, London, UK
- University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Robert Lambert
- Department of Trauma & Orthopaedic Surgery, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Michael Stroud
- University of Southampton Medical School, Southampton, UK
| | - David Macleod
- Clinical Research Department, International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Andrew Bastawrous
- Clinical Research Department, International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Tunde Peto
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Queens University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Matthew J. Burton
- Clinical Research Department, International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Pattyn N, Mairesse O, Cortoos A, Marcoen N, Neyt X, Meeusen R. Sleep during an Antarctic summer expedition: new light on “polar insomnia”. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2017; 122:788-794. [DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00606.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Revised: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Sleep complaints are consistently cited as the most prominent health and well-being problem in Arctic and Antarctic expeditions, without clear evidence to identify the causal mechanisms. The present investigation aimed at studying sleep and determining circadian regulation and mood during a 4-mo Antarctic summer expedition. All data collection was performed during the continuous illumination of the Antarctic summer. After an habituation night and acclimatization to the environment (3 wk), ambulatory polysomnography (PSG) was performed in 21 healthy male subjects, free of medication. An 18-h profile (saliva sampling every 2 h) of cortisol and melatonin was assessed. Mood, sleepiness, and subjective sleep quality were assessed, and the psychomotor vigilance task was administered. PSG showed, in addition to high sleep fragmentation, a major decrease in slow-wave sleep (SWS) and an increase in stage R sleep. Furthermore, the ultradian rhythmicity of sleep was altered, with SWS occurring mainly at the end of the night and stage R sleep at the beginning. Cortisol secretion profiles were normal; melatonin secretion, however, showed a severe phase delay. There were no mood alterations according to the Profile of Mood States scores, but the psychomotor vigilance test showed an impaired vigilance performance. These results confirm previous reports on “polar insomnia”, the decrease in SWS, and present novel insight, the disturbed ultradian sleep structure. A hypothesis is formulated linking the prolonged SWS latency to the phase delay in melatonin. NEW & NOTEWORTHY The present paper presents a rare body of work on sleep and sleep wake regulation in the extreme environment of an Antarctic expedition, documenting the effects of constant illumination on sleep, mood, and chronobiology. For applied research, these results suggest the potential efficiency of melatonin supplementation in similar deployments. For fundamental research, these results warrant further investigation of the potential link between melatonin secretion and the onset of slow-wave sleep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Pattyn
- VIPER Research Unit, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Experimental and Applied Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
- Human Physiology and Sports Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Olivier Mairesse
- VIPER Research Unit, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Experimental and Applied Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
- Sleep Unit, CHU Brugmann, Brussels, Belgium; and
| | - Aisha Cortoos
- VIPER Research Unit, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium
- Sleep Unit, Department of Pneumology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nele Marcoen
- VIPER Research Unit, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Experimental and Applied Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Xavier Neyt
- VIPER Research Unit, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Romain Meeusen
- Human Physiology and Sports Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
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Pattyn N, Van Puyvelde M, Fernandez-Tellez H, Roelands B, Mairesse O. From the midnight sun to the longest night: Sleep in Antarctica. Sleep Med Rev 2017; 37:159-172. [PMID: 28460798 DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2017.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2015] [Revised: 03/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Sleep disturbances are the main health complaints from personnel deployed in Antarctica. The current paper presents a systematic review of research findings on sleep disturbances in Antarctica. The available sources were divided in three categories: results based on questionnaire surveys or sleep logs, studies using actigraphy, and data from polysomnography results. Other areas relevant to the issue were also examined. These included chronobiology, since the changes in photoperiod have been known to affect circadian rhythms, mood disturbances, exercise, sleep and hypoxia, countermeasure investigations in Antarctica, and other locations lacking a normal photoperiod. Based on the combination of our reviewed sources and data outside the field of sleep studies, or from other geographical locations, we defined hypotheses to be confirmed or infirmed, which allowed to summarize a research agenda. Despite the scarcity of sleep research on the Antarctic continent, the present review pinpointed some consistent changes in sleep during the Antarctic winter, the common denominators being a circadian phase delay, poor subjective sleep quality, an increased sleep fragmentation, as well as a decrease in slow wave sleep. Similar changes, albeit less pronounced, were observed during summer. Additional multidisciplinary research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms behind these changes in sleep architecture, and to investigate interventions to improve the sleep quality of the men and women deployed in the Antarctic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Pattyn
- Vital Signs and Performance Research Unit, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium; Human Physiology Dept, School for Exercise Science, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium; Experimental and Applied Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium; British Antarctic Survey Medical Unit, Derriford Hospital, Plymouth, UK.
| | - Martine Van Puyvelde
- Vital Signs and Performance Research Unit, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Helio Fernandez-Tellez
- Vital Signs and Performance Research Unit, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium; Human Physiology Dept, School for Exercise Science, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium
| | - Bart Roelands
- Human Physiology Dept, School for Exercise Science, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium
| | - Olivier Mairesse
- Vital Signs and Performance Research Unit, Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium; Human Physiology Dept, School for Exercise Science, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium; Sleep Laboratory and Unit for Chronobiology, Brugmann University Hospital, Free University of Brussels, Belgium
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11
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Simpson A. The effect of Antarctic residence on energy dynamics and aerobic fitness. Int J Circumpolar Health 2016; 69:220-35. [DOI: 10.3402/ijch.v69i3.17625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Chen N, Wu Q, Li H, Zhang T, Xu C. Different adaptations of Chinese winter-over expeditioners during prolonged Antarctic and sub-Antarctic residence. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2016; 60:737-747. [PMID: 26842369 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-015-1069-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Revised: 09/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/21/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Prolonged residence in Antarctica is characterized by exposure to isolated, confined, and extreme (ICE) environment. Winter-over expeditioners at research stations often exhibit a complex of psychophysiological symptoms, which varied by stations and sociocultural backgrounds. To understand the different patterns of psychophysiological responses provoked by environmental stress, we conducted a longitudinal assessment of mood and endocrine function in two groups of Chinese expeditioners who were deployed to sub-Antarctic (Great Wall Station, 62°S, N = 12) and Antarctic (Zhongshan Station, 66°S, N = 16) from December 2003 to 2005. Measures of mood, thyroid function, the levels of plasma catecholamine, and circulating interleukins were obtained at departure from China, mid-winter (Antarctica), end of winter (Antarctica), and return to China, respectively. The Zhongshan Station crew experienced significant increases in fatigue, anger, tension, confusion, and decrease in free thyroxine (FT4), norepinephrine (NE), and epinephrine (E) during the winter, increase in thyrotropin (TSH) and total triiodothyronine (TT3) when returning, whereas their counterparts at Great Wall Station only experienced increased TT3 after deployment. Moreover, compared with the Great Wall Station crew, the Zhongshan Station crew exhibited greater increase in anger, greater decrease in FT4, total thyroxine (TT4), NE and E over the winter, and greater increase in TSH when returning. Chinese expeditioners who lived and worked at the Antarctic station and the sub-Antarctic station for over a year showed different change patterns in mood and endocrine hormones. Negative mood and endocrine dysfunction were positively associated with the severity of environment. The study is a supplement to scientific knowledge on psychophysiological variation under ICE environment, which has certain applied value for the development of preventive countermeasures or interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Chen
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Quan Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing, 100035, China
| | - Hao Li
- Beijing Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Chengli Xu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China.
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Santos AF, Pires F, Jesus HE, Santos ALS, Peixoto R, Rosado AS, D'Avila-Levy CM, Branquinha MH. Detection of proteases from Sporosarcina aquimarina and Algoriphagus antarcticus isolated from Antarctic soil. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2015; 87:109-19. [PMID: 25806979 DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765201520130519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Accepted: 04/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Two psychrophilic bacterial samples were isolated from King George Island soil, in Antarctica. The phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA (rrs) gene led to the correlation with the closest related isolates as Sporosarcina aquimarina (99%) and Algoriphagus antarcticus (99%), with query coverage of 99% and 98%, respectively. The spent culture media from both isolates displayed proteolytic activities detected by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis containing gelatin as protein substrate. Under the employed conditions, S. aquimarina showed a 55 kDa protease with the best activity detected at pH 7.0 and at 27°C. A. antarcticus also showed a single extracellular protease, however its molecular mass was around 90kDa and its best activity was detected at pH 9.0 and at 37°C. The proteases from both isolates were inhibited by 1,10-phenanthroline and EDTA, two metalloprotease inhibitors. This is the first record of protease detection in both species, and our results may contribute to broaden the basic knowledge of proteases from the Antarctica environment and may help prospecting future biotechnological applications of these enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anderson F Santos
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Fabiano Pires
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Hugo E Jesus
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - André L S Santos
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Raquel Peixoto
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Alexandre S Rosado
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | | | - Marta H Branquinha
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
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Yadav AP, Chaturvedi S, Mishra KP, Pal S, Ganju L, Singh SB. Evidence for altered metabolic pathways during environmental stress: (1)H-NMR spectroscopy based metabolomics and clinical studies on subjects of sea-voyage and Antarctic-stay. Physiol Behav 2014; 135:81-90. [PMID: 24910139 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2014.05.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Revised: 04/25/2014] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The Antarctic context is an analogue of space travel, with close similarity in ambience of extreme climate, isolation, constrained living spaces, disrupted sleep cycles, and environmental stress. The present study examined the impact of the harsh habitat of Antarctica on human physiology and its metabolic pathways, by analyzing human serum samples, using (1)H-NMR spectroscopy for identification of metabolites; and quantifying other physiological and clinical parameters for correlation between expression data and metabolite data. Sera from seven adult males (of median age 36years) who participated in this study, from the 28th Indian Expeditionary group to the Antarctica station Maitri, were collected in chronological sequence. These included: i) baseline control; ii) during ship journey; iii) at Antarctica, in the months of March, May, August and November; to enable study of temporal evolution of monitored physiological states. 29 metabolites in serum were identified from the 400MHz (1)H-NMR spectra. Out of these, 19 metabolites showed significant variations in levels, during the ship journey and the stay at Maitri, compared to the base-line levels. Further biochemical analysis also supported these results, indicating that the ship journey, and the long-term Antarctic exposure, affected kidney and liver functioning. Our metabolite data highlights for the first time the effect of environmental stress on the patho-physiology of the human system. Multivariate analysis tools were employed for this metabonomics study, using (1)H-NMR spectroscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anand Prakash Yadav
- Immunomodulation Laboratory, Defence Institute of Physiology & Allied Sciences, Lucknow Road, Timarpur, Delhi 110054, India
| | - Shubhra Chaturvedi
- Cyclotron & Radiopharmaceutical Sciences Division, Institute of Nuclear Medicine & Allied Sciences, Lucknow Road, Timarpur, Delhi 110054, India
| | - Kamla Prasad Mishra
- Immunomodulation Laboratory, Defence Institute of Physiology & Allied Sciences, Lucknow Road, Timarpur, Delhi 110054, India
| | - Sunil Pal
- Cyclotron & Radiopharmaceutical Sciences Division, Institute of Nuclear Medicine & Allied Sciences, Lucknow Road, Timarpur, Delhi 110054, India
| | - Lilly Ganju
- Immunomodulation Laboratory, Defence Institute of Physiology & Allied Sciences, Lucknow Road, Timarpur, Delhi 110054, India.
| | - Shashi Bala Singh
- Immunomodulation Laboratory, Defence Institute of Physiology & Allied Sciences, Lucknow Road, Timarpur, Delhi 110054, India
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Horiuchi M, Kanesada H, Miyata T, Watanabe K, Nishimura A, Kokubo T, Kirisako T. Ornithine ingestion improved sleep disturbances but was not associated with correction of blood tryptophan ratio in Japanese Antarctica expedition members during summer. Nutr Res 2013; 33:557-64. [PMID: 23827130 DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2013.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2012] [Revised: 04/17/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Members of expeditions to Antarctica may show changes in biological and physiological parameters involved in lipid, glucose, and thyroid hormone metabolism as they adapt to the environment; however, alterations in amino acid (AA) levels and sleep among expedition members in Antarctica have yet to be fully elucidated. We hypothesized that there would be alterations of blood AA levels, and ornithine (Orn) ingestion would affect biological parameters and sleep in Japanese expedition members during the summer in Antarctica. Japanese Antarctica Research Expedition members (22 people) who stayed in Antarctica for 3 months from December 2010 were examined, and a randomized double-blind study of Orn ingestion (400 mg/d) for 4 weeks was performed. Sleep conditions were evaluated subjectively by the Oguri-Shirakawa-Azumi (brief version) questionnaire. The blood of Japanese Antarctica Research Expedition members in Antarctica showed higher creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, and ammonia levels than that in Japan. On blood AA analysis, aspartate, Orn, and serine were significantly higher, and alanine and tryptophan (Trp) were significantly lower in Antarctica than in Japan. The Trp ratio, the value of Trp divided by the sum of phenylalanine, tyrosine, and branched-chain AAs, was significantly lower in Antarctica than in Japan. Although sleep deteriorated during the stay in Antarctica, Orn ingestion, to some extent, improved sleep compared with the placebo group in Antarctica, suggesting that Orn is effective for people with heavy physical workloads in places such as Antarctica.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahisa Horiuchi
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima, Japan
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16
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Yadav AP, Mishra KP, Ganju L, Singh SB. Wintering in Antarctica: impact on immune response of Indian expeditioners. Neuroimmunomodulation 2012; 19:327-33. [PMID: 22868480 DOI: 10.1159/000339512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2012] [Accepted: 05/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune system is one of the major thrust areas in understanding the effects of adverse climatic conditions on human health. Exposure to the Antarctic environment, such as isolation, cold, UV radiations, magnetic field, blizzards, circadian biorhythms, and fear of the unknown, modify various components of the immune system. Members of Antarctic expeditions suffer significant emotional strain as a result of physical isolation and social deprivation. The present study was performed on winter team members of the 28th Indian Scientific Expedition. In this study, different immunological parameters, which mainly include cytokines (TNF-α, IFN-γ, TGF-β, and IL-4), chemokine MIP-1α, immunoglobulins (IgA, IgM and IgG), cortisol and netrin-1, were assayed in sera by ELISA. Results showed that TNF-α and MIP-1α levels were significantly increased in March, May and August while IFN-γ levels were increased in March and May while TGF-β levels showed a significant decrease in March and May. Serum IgA levels were significantly increased during the entire period of the stressful expedition. Therefore, the present study suggests that serum IgA could be a potential biomarker for extreme environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anand Prakash Yadav
- Immunomodulation Laboratory, Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences, Delhi, India
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17
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Smith SM, Gardner KK, Locke J, Zwart SR. Vitamin D supplementation during Antarctic winter. Am J Clin Nutr 2009; 89:1092-8. [PMID: 19225122 DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.2008.27189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persons with limited exposure to ultraviolet B light, including space travelers, may not receive enough vitamin D. Recent studies indicate that optimal serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] should be > or = 80 nmol/L. OBJECTIVE This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of 3 doses of vitamin D to raise and maintain 25(OH)D to a concentration >80 nmol/L in persons with limited ultraviolet B light exposure. DESIGN This was a 5-mo, prospective, randomized, double-blind study of vitamin D supplementation. It was conducted during winter in Antarctica at the McMurdo Station, when ultraviolet B radiation levels are essentially zero. The 55 subjects were randomly divided into 3 groups for vitamin D supplementation: 2000 IU/d (n = 18), 1000 IU/d (n = 19), and 400 IU/d (n = 18). An additional 7 subjects did not take supplements or took supplements of their own choosing. Blood samples were collected about every 2 mo during the winter. RESULTS About 5 mo after supplementation started, 25(OH)D increased to 71 +/- 23 nmol/L in the 2000-IU/d group, 63 +/- 25 nmol/L in the 1000-IU/d group, and 57 +/- 15 nmol/L in the 400-IU/d group and decreased to 34 +/- 12 nmol/L in the group not taking supplements. CONCLUSIONS These data will enable us to provide space crews with evidence-based recommendations for vitamin D supplementation. The findings also have implications for other persons with limited ultraviolet light exposure, including polar workers and the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott M Smith
- Space Life Sciences Directorate, NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX 77058, USA.
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Aponte VM, Finch DS, Klaus DM. Considerations for non-invasive in-flight monitoring of astronaut immune status with potential use of MEMS and NEMS devices. Life Sci 2006; 79:1317-33. [PMID: 16757003 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2006.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2006] [Revised: 03/25/2006] [Accepted: 04/04/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The dynamics of how astronauts' immune systems respond to space flight have been studied extensively, but the complex process has not to date been thoroughly characterized, nor have the underlying principles of what causes the immune system to change in microgravity been fully determined. Statistically significant results regarding overall immunological effects in space have not yet been established due to the relatively limited amount of experimental data available, and are further complicated by the findings not showing systematically reproducible trends. Collecting in vivo data during flight without affecting the system being measured would increase understanding of the immune response process. The aims of this paper are to briefly review the current knowledge regarding how the immune system is altered in space flight; to present a group of candidate biomarkers that could be useful for in-flight monitoring and give an overview of the current methods used to measure these markers; and finally, to further establish the need and usefulness of incorporating real-time analytical techniques for in-flight assessment of astronaut health, emphasizing the potential application of MEMS/NEMS devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- V M Aponte
- Aerospace Engineering Sciences, 429 UCB, University of Colorado, Boulder, 80309, USA.
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