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Seidler RD, Mao XW, Tays GD, Wang T, Zu Eulenburg P. Effects of spaceflight on the brain. Lancet Neurol 2024; 23:826-835. [PMID: 38945144 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(24)00224-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
The number of long duration human spaceflights has increased substantially over the past 15 years, leading to the discovery of numerous effects on the CNS. Microgravity results in headward fluid shifts, ventricular expansion, an upward shift of the brain within the skull, and remodelling of grey and white matter. The fluid changes are correlated with changes to perivascular space and spaceflight associated neuro-ocular syndrome. Microgravity alters the vestibular processing of head tilt and results in reduced tactile and proprioceptive inputs during spaceflight. Sensory adaptation is reflected in postflight effects, evident as transient sensorimotor impairment. Another major concern is that galactic cosmic radiation, which spacefarers will be exposed to when going beyond the magnetosphere around Earth, might have a negative effect on CNS function. Research with rodents points to the potential disruptive effects of space radiation on blood-brain barrier integrity and brain structures. More work is needed to understand and mitigate these effects on the CNS before humans travel to Mars, as the flight durations will be longer than anyone has previously experienced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael D Seidler
- Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Xiao Wen Mao
- Department of Basic Sciences, Division of Biomedical Engineering Sciences, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Grant D Tays
- Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Tianyi Wang
- Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Peter Zu Eulenburg
- Institute for Neuroradiology, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
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2
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Zimmermann PH, Jansen S, Klußmann JP. [ENT in zero g: the cosmic challenges of otolaryngology]. Laryngorhinootologie 2024; 103:275-278. [PMID: 38134908 DOI: 10.1055/a-2192-7502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Manned spaceflight places special demands on the human body, including the organs in the ENT region. These organs play a critical role in maintaining the health and safety of astronauts in space. In this paper, we review common ENT problems of spaceflight, including upper airway edema, middle ear and mastoid effusions, hearing loss, and dizziness with nausea. We discuss the underlying mechanisms contributing to these complaints, their clinical manifestations, and potential treatment strategies. In addition, we examine the potential impact of these conditions on astronaut health and mission outcomes. Finally, we emphasize the importance of preventive measures and future research in this area to optimize astronaut health and safety on future missions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefanie Jansen
- Klinik für Hals-, Nasen- und Ohrenheilkunde und Kopf-Hals-Chirurgie, Universitätsklinik Köln
| | - Jens Peter Klußmann
- Klinik für Hals-, Nasen- und Ohrenheilkunde und Kopf-Hals-Chirurgie, Universitätsklinik Köln
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3
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Tomsia M, Cieśla J, Śmieszek J, Florek S, Macionga A, Michalczyk K, Stygar D. Long-term space missions' effects on the human organism: what we do know and what requires further research. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1284644. [PMID: 38415007 PMCID: PMC10896920 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1284644] [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: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Space has always fascinated people. Many years have passed since the first spaceflight, and in addition to the enormous technological progress, the level of understanding of human physiology in space is also increasing. The presented paper aims to summarize the recent research findings on the influence of the space environment (microgravity, pressure differences, cosmic radiation, etc.) on the human body systems during short-term and long-term space missions. The review also presents the biggest challenges and problems that must be solved in order to extend safely the time of human stay in space. In the era of increasing engineering capabilities, plans to colonize other planets, and the growing interest in commercial space flights, the most topical issues of modern medicine seems to be understanding the effects of long-term stay in space, and finding solutions to minimize the harmful effects of the space environment on the human body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Tomsia
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Toxicology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Julia Cieśla
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Joanna Śmieszek
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Szymon Florek
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Agata Macionga
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Michalczyk
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Dominika Stygar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
- SLU University Animal Hospital, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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Khalid A, Prusty PP, Arshad I, Gustafson HE, Jalaly I, Nockels K, Bentley BL, Goel R, Ferrè ER. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological countermeasures to Space Motion Sickness: a systematic review. Front Neural Circuits 2023; 17:1150233. [PMID: 37396400 PMCID: PMC10311550 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2023.1150233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Space Motion Sickness (SMS) is a syndrome that affects around 70% of astronauts and includes symptoms of nausea, dizziness, fatigue, vertigo, headaches, vomiting, and cold sweating. Consequences range from discomfort to severe sensorimotor and cognitive incapacitation, which might cause potential problems for mission-critical tasks and astronauts and cosmonauts' well-being. Both pharmacological and non-pharmacological countermeasures have been proposed to mitigate SMS. However, their effectiveness has not been systematically evaluated. Here we present the first systematic review of published peer-reviewed research on the effectiveness of pharmacological and non-pharmacological countermeasures to SMS. Methods We performed a double-blind title and abstract screening using the online Rayyan collaboration tool for systematic reviews, followed by a full-text screening. Eventually, only 23 peer-reviewed studies underwent data extraction. Results Both pharmacological and non-pharmacological countermeasures can help mitigate SMS symptoms. Discussion No definitive recommendation can be given regarding the superiority of any particular countermeasure approach. Importantly, there is considerable heterogeneity in the published research methods, lack of a standardized assessment approach, and small sample sizes. To allow for consistent comparisons between SMS countermeasures in the future, standardized testing protocols for spaceflight and ground-based analogs are needed. We believe that the data should be made openly available, given the uniqueness of the environment in which it is collected. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021244131.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akil Khalid
- Leicester Medical School, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Pragnya P. Prusty
- Department of Audio-Vestibular Sciences, Institute of Health Sciences, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Iqra Arshad
- Department of Psychology, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah E. Gustafson
- Department of Health and Human Performance, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Isra Jalaly
- University College London Medical School, London, United Kingdom
| | - Keith Nockels
- Library and Learning Services, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Barry L. Bentley
- Cardiff School of Technologies, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Rahul Goel
- San Jose State University-NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, United States
| | - Elisa R. Ferrè
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Birkbeck University of London, London, United Kingdom
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5
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Dubé S, Santaguida M, Anctil D, Giaccari L, Lapierre J. The Case for Space Sexology. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2023; 60:165-176. [PMID: 34878963 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2021.2012639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Space poses significant challenges for human intimacy and sexuality. Life in space habitats during long-term travel, exploration, or settlement may: detrimentally impact the sexual and reproductive functions of astronauts, restrict privacy and access to intimate partners, impose hygiene protocols and abstinence policies, and heighten risks of interpersonal conflicts and sexual violence. Together, this may jeopardize the health and well-being of space inhabitants, crew performance, and mission success. Yet, little attention has been given to the sexological issues of human life in space. This situation is untenable considering our upcoming space missions and expansion. It is time for space organizations to embrace a new discipline, space sexology: the scientific study of extraterrestrial intimacy and sexuality. To make this case, we draw attention to the lack of research on space intimacy and sexuality; discuss the risks and benefits of extraterrestrial eroticism; and propose an initial biopsychosocial framework to envision a broad, collaborative scientific agenda on space sexology. We also underline key anticipated challenges faced by this innovative field and suggest paths to solutions. We conclude that space programs and exploration require a new perspective - one that holistically addresses the intimate and sexual needs of humans - in our pursuit of a spacefaring civilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Dubé
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University
| | | | - D Anctil
- Department of Philosophy, Jean-de-Brébeuf College
- International Observatory on the Societal Impacts of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technology, Laval University
| | - L Giaccari
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University
| | - J Lapierre
- Faculty of Nursing Science, Laval University
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Gupta U, Baig S, Majid A, Bell SM. The neurology of space flight; How does space flight effect the human nervous system? LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2023; 36:105-115. [PMID: 36682819 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND HYPOTHESIS Advancements in technology, human adaptability, and funding have increased space exploration and in turn commercial spaceflight. Corporations such as Space X and Blue Origin are exploring methods to make space tourism possible. This could lead to an increase in the number of patients presenting with neurological diseases associated with spaceflight. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of spaceflight stressors is required to manage neurological disease in high-risk individuals. OBJECTIVES This review aims to describe the neurological effects of spaceflight and to assess countermeasures such as pre-flight prophylaxis, training, and possible therapeutics to reduce long-term effects. METHODOLOGY A literature search was performed for experimental studies conducted in astronauts and in animal models that simulated the space environment. Many studies, however, only discussed these with scientific reasoning and did not include any experimental methods. Relevant studies were identified through searching research databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar. No inclusion or exclusion criteria were used. FINDINGS Analysis of these studies provided a holistic understanding of the acute and chronic neurological changes that occur during space flight. Astronauts are exposed to hazards that include microgravity, cosmic radiation, hypercapnia, isolation, confinement and disrupted circadian rhythms. Microgravity, the absence of a gravitational force, is linked to disturbances in the vestibular system, intracranial and intraocular pressures. Furthermore, microgravity affects near field vision as part of the spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome. Exposure to cosmic radiation can increase the risk of neurodegenerative conditions and malignancies. It is estimated that cosmic radiation has significantly higher ionising capabilities than the ionising radiation used in medicine. Space travel also has potential benefits to the nervous system, including psychological development and effects on learning and memory. Future work needs to focus on how we can compare a current astronaut to a future space tourist. Potentially the physiological and psychological stresses of space flight might lead to neurological complications in future space travellers that do not have the physiological reserve of current astronauts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udit Gupta
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385a Glossop Road, Sheffield and S10 2HQ, United Kingdom
| | - Sheharyar Baig
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385a Glossop Road, Sheffield and S10 2HQ, United Kingdom; Department of Clinical Neurology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Arshad Majid
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385a Glossop Road, Sheffield and S10 2HQ, United Kingdom; Department of Clinical Neurology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Simon M Bell
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, 385a Glossop Road, Sheffield and S10 2HQ, United Kingdom; Department of Clinical Neurology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
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7
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Seidler RD, Stern C, Basner M, Stahn AC, Wuyts FL, zu Eulenburg P. Future research directions to identify risks and mitigation strategies for neurostructural, ocular, and behavioral changes induced by human spaceflight: A NASA-ESA expert group consensus report. Front Neural Circuits 2022; 16:876789. [PMID: 35991346 PMCID: PMC9387435 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2022.876789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A team of experts on the effects of the spaceflight environment on the brain and eye (SANS: Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome) was convened by NASA and ESA to (1) review spaceflight-associated structural and functional changes of the human brain and eye, and any interactions between the two; and (2) identify critical future research directions in this area to help characterize the risk and identify possible countermeasures and strategies to mitigate the spaceflight-induced brain and eye alterations. The experts identified 14 critical future research directions that would substantially advance our knowledge of the effects of spending prolonged periods of time in the spaceflight environment on SANS, as well as brain structure and function. They used a paired comparison approach to rank the relative importance of these 14 recommendations, which are discussed in detail in the main report and are summarized briefly below.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael D. Seidler
- Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, Health and Human Performance, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Claudia Stern
- Department of Clinical Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR) and ISS Operations and Astronauts Group, European Astronaut Centre, European Space Agency (ESA), Cologne, Germany
- *Correspondence: Claudia Stern,
| | - Mathias Basner
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Alexander C. Stahn
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Floris L. Wuyts
- Department of Physics, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Laboratory for Equilibrium Investigations and Aerospace (LEIA), Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Peter zu Eulenburg
- German Vertigo and Balance Center, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU), Munich, Germany
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8
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Extraterrestrial Gynecology: Could Spaceflight Increase the Risk of Developing Cancer in Female Astronauts? An Updated Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137465. [PMID: 35806469 PMCID: PMC9267413 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Outer space is an extremely hostile environment for human life, with ionizing radiation from galactic cosmic rays and microgravity posing the most significant hazards to the health of astronauts. Spaceflight has also been shown to have an impact on established cancer hallmarks, possibly increasing carcinogenic risk. Terrestrially, women have a higher incidence of radiation-induced cancers, largely driven by lung, thyroid, breast, and ovarian cancers, and therefore, historically, they have been permitted to spend significantly less time in space than men. In the present review, we focus on the effects of microgravity and radiation on the female reproductive system, particularly gynecological cancer. The aim is to provide a summary of the research that has been carried out related to the risk of gynecological cancer, highlighting what further studies are needed to pave the way for safer exploration class missions, as well as postflight screening and management of women astronauts following long-duration spaceflight.
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9
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Arshad I, Ferrè ER. Express: Cognition in Zero Gravity: Effects of Non-Terrestrial Gravity on Human Behaviour. Q J Exp Psychol (Hove) 2022; 76:979-994. [PMID: 35786100 PMCID: PMC10119906 DOI: 10.1177/17470218221113935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
As humanity prepares for deep space exploration, understanding the impact of spaceflight on bodily physiology is critical. While the effects of non-terrestrial gravity on the body are well established, little is known about its impact on human behaviour and cognition. Astronauts often describe dramatic alterations in sensorimotor functioning, including orientation, postural control and balance. Changes in cognitive functioning as well as in socio-affective processing have also been observed. Here we have reviewed the key literature and explored the impact of non-terrestrial gravity across three key functional domains: sensorimotor, cognition, and socio-affective processing. We have proposed a neuroanatomical model to account for the effects of non-terrestrial gravity in these domains. Understanding the impact of non-terrestrial gravity on human behaviour has never been more timely and it will help mitigate against risks in both commercial and non-commercial spaceflight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iqra Arshad
- Department of Psychology, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, UK 3162
| | - Elisa Raffaella Ferrè
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Birkbeck University of London, London, UK 3162
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10
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Reyes DP, Masterova KS, Walton M, Kerstman EL, Antonsen EL. Assessment of Sex-Dependent Medical Outcomes During Spaceflight. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2022; 31:1145-1155. [PMID: 35549913 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2021.0636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: In this study sex-differences in medical outcomes during spaceflight are reviewed and probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) is used to assess the impact on spaceflight missions of varying lengths. Materials and Methods: We use PRA to simulate missions of 42 days, 6 months, and 2.5 years. We model medical outcomes using three crews: two men and two women, four women, or four men. Total medical events (TME), crew health index (CHI), probability (0-1) of medical evacuation (pEVAC), probability of loss of crew life (pLOCL), and influential medical conditions were determined. Results: No differences were seen in any metric for the 42-day mission. There were no differences seen for any mission length, in any crew, for TME, CHI, pLOCL, or environmental causes of pEVAC. Sex-dependent differences are seen for rates of nonemergent pEVAC during the 6 month and 2.5-year missions, where women have a higher pEVAC in the 182-day (0.0388 vs. 0.0354) and 2.5-year missions (0.350 vs. 0.228). These differences were driven by higher incidence of partially treated urinary tract infection (UTI). In the 2.5 year mission, with resupply of medical resources, the influence of UTI in women on pEVAC decreases (0.35-0.11). Discussion: Although resupply is unlikely for deep space missions, modeled results suggest that sex-specific medical needs can be readily managed through preventive measures and inclusion of appropriate medical capabilities. Within its many limitations, PRA is a useful tool to estimate medical risks in unique environments where only expert opinion was previously available.
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Affiliation(s)
- David P Reyes
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Kseniya S Masterova
- School of Medicine and The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Eric L Kerstman
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Erik L Antonsen
- Exploration Medical Capability, Johnson Space Center, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Houston, Texas, USA.,Department of Emergency Medicine and Center for Space Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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11
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Nosikova I, Riabova A, Amirova L, Kitov V, Tomilovskaya E. NAIAD-2020: Characteristics of Motor Evoked Potentials After 3-Day Exposure to Dry Immersion in Women. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:753259. [PMID: 34924980 PMCID: PMC8671694 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.753259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As female astronauts participate in space flight more and more frequently, there is a demand for research on how the female body adapts to the microgravity environment. In particular, there is very little research on how the neuromuscular system reacts to gravitational unloading in women. We aimed to estimate changes in motor evoked potentials (MEPs) in the lower leg muscles in women after 3-day exposure to Dry Immersion (DI), which is one of the most widely used ground models of microgravity. Six healthy female volunteers (mean age 30.17 ± 5.5 years) with a natural menstrual cycle participated in this experiment. MEPs were recorded from the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles twice before DI, on the day of DI completion, and 3 days after DI, during the recovery period. To evoke motor responses, transcranial and trans-spinal magnetic stimulation was applied. We showed that changes in MEP characteristics after DI exposure were different depending on the stimulation site, but were similar for both muscles. For trans-spinal stimulation, MEP thresholds decreased compared to baseline values, and amplitudes, on the contrary, increased, resembling the phenomenon of hypogravitational hyperreflexia. This finding is in line with data observed in other experiments on both male and female participants. MEPs to transcranial stimulation had an opposing dynamic, which may have resulted from the small group size and large inter-subject variability, or from hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle. Central motor conduction time remained unchanged, suggesting that pyramidal tract conductibility was not affected by DI exposure. More research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms.
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12
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Putman EJ, Galvan-Garza RC, Clark TK. The Effect of Noisy Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation on Learning of Functional Mobility and Manual Control Nulling Sensorimotor Tasks. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:756674. [PMID: 34803637 PMCID: PMC8595260 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.756674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) is a non-invasive method of electrically stimulating the vestibular system. We investigated whether the application of GVS can alter the learning of new functional mobility and manual control tasks and whether learning can be retained following GVS application. In a between-subjects experiment design, 36 healthy subjects performed repeated trials, capturing the learning of either (a) a functional mobility task, navigating an obstacle course on a compliant surface with degraded visual cues or (b) a manual control task, using a joystick to null self-roll tilt against a pseudo-random disturbance while seated in the dark. In the “learning” phase of trials, bilateral, bipolar GVS was applied continuously. The GVS waveform also differed between subjects in each task group: (1) white noisy galvanic vestibular stimulation (nGVS) at 0.3 mA (2) high-level random GVS at 0.7 mA (selected from pilot testing as destabilizing, but not painful), or (3) with the absence of stimulation (i.e., sham). Following the “learning” trials, all subjects were blindly transitioned to sham GVS, upon which they immediately completed another series of trials to assess any aftereffects. In the functional mobility task, we found nGVS significantly improved task learning (p = 0.03, mean learning metric 171% more than the sham group). Further, improvements in learning the functional mobility task with nGVS were retained, even once the GVS application was stopped. The benefits in learning with nGVS were not observed in the manual control task. High level GVS tended to inhibit learning in both tasks, but not significantly so. Even once the high-level stimulation was stopped, the impaired performance remained. Improvements in learning with nGVS may be due to increased information throughput resulting from stochastic resonance. The benefit of nGVS for functional mobility, but not manual control nulling, may be due to the multisensory (e.g., visual and proprioceptive), strategic, motor coordination, or spatial awareness aspects of the former task. Learning improvements with nGVS have the potential to benefit individuals who perform functional mobility tasks, such as astronauts, firefighters, high performance athletes, and soldiers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther J Putman
- Ann and H.J. Smead Aerospace Engineering Sciences, University of Colorado, Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
| | | | - Torin K Clark
- Ann and H.J. Smead Aerospace Engineering Sciences, University of Colorado, Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
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13
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Bretl KN, Clark TK. Predicting individual acclimation to the cross-coupled illusion for artificial gravity. J Vestib Res 2021; 32:305-316. [PMID: 34806642 DOI: 10.3233/ves-210019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cross-coupled (CC) illusion and associated motion sickness limits the tolerability of fast-spin-rate centrifugation for artificial gravity implementation. Humans acclimate to the CC illusion through repeated exposure; however, substantial inter-individual differences in acclimation exist, which remain poorly understood. To address this, we investigated several potential predictors of individual acclimation to the CC illusion. METHODS Eleven subjects were exposed to the CC illusion for up to 50 25-minute acclimation sessions. The metric of acclimation rate was calculated as the slope of each subject's linear increase in spin rate across sessions. As potential predictors of acclimation rate, we gathered age, gender, demographics, and activity history, and measured subjects' vestibular perceptual thresholds in the yaw, pitch, and roll rotation axes. RESULTS We found a significant, negative correlation (p = 0.025) between subjects' acclimation rate and roll threshold, suggesting lower thresholds yielded faster acclimation. Additionally, a leave-one-out cross-validation analysis indicated that roll thresholds are predictive of acclimation rates. Correlations between acclimation and other measures were not found but were difficult to assess within our sample. CONCLUSIONS The ability to predict individual differences in CC illusion acclimation rate using roll thresholds is critical to optimizing acclimation training, improving the feasibility of fast-rotation, short-radius centrifugation for artificial gravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrine N Bretl
- University of Colorado Boulder, 3775 Discovery Drive, Boulder, CO, United States
| | - Torin K Clark
- University of Colorado Boulder, 3775 Discovery Drive, Boulder, CO, United States
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14
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Tays GD, Hupfeld KE, McGregor HR, Salazar AP, De Dios YE, Beltran NE, Reuter-Lorenz PA, Kofman IS, Wood SJ, Bloomberg JJ, Mulavara AP, Seidler RD. The Effects of Long Duration Spaceflight on Sensorimotor Control and Cognition. Front Neural Circuits 2021; 15:723504. [PMID: 34764856 PMCID: PMC8577506 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2021.723504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Astronauts returning from spaceflight typically show transient declines in mobility and balance. Other sensorimotor behaviors and cognitive function have not been investigated as much. Here, we tested whether spaceflight affects performance on various sensorimotor and cognitive tasks during and after missions to the International Space Station (ISS). We obtained mobility (Functional Mobility Test), balance (Sensory Organization Test-5), bimanual coordination (bimanual Purdue Pegboard), cognitive-motor dual-tasking and various other cognitive measures (Digit Symbol Substitution Test, Cube Rotation, Card Rotation, Rod and Frame Test) before, during and after 15 astronauts completed 6 month missions aboard the ISS. We used linear mixed effect models to analyze performance changes due to entering the microgravity environment, behavioral adaptations aboard the ISS and subsequent recovery from microgravity. We observed declines in mobility and balance from pre- to post-flight, suggesting disruption and/or down weighting of vestibular inputs; these behaviors recovered to baseline levels within 30 days post-flight. We also identified bimanual coordination declines from pre- to post-flight and recovery to baseline levels within 30 days post-flight. There were no changes in dual-task performance during or following spaceflight. Cube rotation response time significantly improved from pre- to post-flight, suggestive of practice effects. There was also a trend for better in-flight cube rotation performance on the ISS when crewmembers had their feet in foot loops on the “floor” throughout the task. This suggests that tactile inputs to the foot sole aided orientation. Overall, these results suggest that sensory reweighting due to the microgravity environment of spaceflight affected sensorimotor performance, while cognitive performance was maintained. A shift from exocentric (gravity) spatial references on Earth toward an egocentric spatial reference may also occur aboard the ISS. Upon return to Earth, microgravity adaptions become maladaptive for certain postural tasks, resulting in transient sensorimotor performance declines that recover within 30 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant D Tays
- Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Kathleen E Hupfeld
- Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Heather R McGregor
- Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Ana Paula Salazar
- Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | | | | | | | | | - Scott J Wood
- NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | | | | | - Rachael D Seidler
- Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States.,Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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15
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Tomilovskaya E, Amirova L, Nosikova I, Rukavishnikov I, Chernogorov R, Lebedeva S, Saveko A, Ermakov I, Ponomarev I, Zelenskaya I, Shigueva T, Shishkin N, Kitov V, Riabova A, Brykov V, Abu Sheli N, Vassilieva G, Orlov O. The First Female Dry Immersion (NAIAD-2020): Design and Specifics of a 3-Day Study. Front Physiol 2021; 12:661959. [PMID: 34194336 PMCID: PMC8236811 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.661959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This article describes procedures and some results of the first study of females undergoing 3-day Dry Immersion. The experiment “NAIAD-2020” was carried out at the Institute of Biomedical Problems (Moscow, Russia) with the participation of six healthy women volunteers (age 30.17 ± 5.5 years, height 1.66 ± 0.1 m, weight 62.05 ± 8.4 kg, BMI 22.39 ± 2.2 kg/m2) with a natural menstrual cycle. During the study, a standard protocol was used, the same as for men, with a minimum period of time spent outside the immersion bath. Before, during and after Immersion, 22 experiments were carried out aimed at studying the neurophysiological, functional, metabolic and psychophysiological functions of the body, the results of which will be presented in future publications. The total time outside the bath for women did not exceed that for men. Systolic and diastolic pressure did not significantly change during the immersion. In the first 24 h after the end of the immersion, heart rate was significantly higher than the background values [F(4,20) = 14.67; P < 0.0001]. Changes in body temperature and water balance were consistent with the patterns found in men. No significant changes in height and weight were found during immersion. All women reported general discomfort and pain in the abdomen and back. The results of this study did not find significant risks to women’s health and showed the feasibility of using this model of the effects of space flight in women of reproductive age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Tomilovskaya
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Liubov Amirova
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Inna Nosikova
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ilya Rukavishnikov
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Roman Chernogorov
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Svetlana Lebedeva
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alina Saveko
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ivan Ermakov
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ivan Ponomarev
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Inna Zelenskaya
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Tatiana Shigueva
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Nikita Shishkin
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Vladimir Kitov
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexandra Riabova
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Vitaly Brykov
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Nelly Abu Sheli
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Galina Vassilieva
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Oleg Orlov
- Russian Federation State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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16
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Davis CM, Allen AR, Bowles DE. Consequences of space radiation on the brain and cardiovascular system. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART C, TOXICOLOGY AND CARCINOGENESIS 2021; 39:180-218. [PMID: 33902387 DOI: 10.1080/26896583.2021.1891825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Staying longer in outer space will inevitably increase the health risks of astronauts due to the exposures to galactic cosmic rays and solar particle events. Exposure may pose a significant hazard to space flight crews not only during the mission but also later, when slow-developing adverse effects could finally become apparent. The body of literature examining ground-based outcomes in response to high-energy charged-particle radiation suggests differential effects in response to different particles and energies. Numerous animal and cellular models have repeatedly demonstrated the negative effects of high-energy charged-particle on the brain and cognitive function. However, research on the role of space radiation in potentiating cardiovascular dysfunction is still in its early stages. This review summarizes the available data from studies using ground-based animal models to evaluate the response of the brain and heart to the high-energy charged particles of GCR and SPE, addresses potential sex differences in these effects, and aims to highlight gaps in the current literature for future study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine M Davis
- Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Antiño R Allen
- Division of Radiation Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Dawn E Bowles
- Division of Surgical Sciences, Department of Surgery, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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17
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Jégaden D, Menaheze M, Lucas D. Influence du mal de mer sur le travail de chercheurs embarqués à bord de navires océanographiques français. ARCH MAL PROF ENVIRO 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.admp.2019.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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18
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Kolev OI. Self-Motion Versus Environmental-Motion Perception Following Rotational Vestibular Stimulation and Factors Modifying Them. Front Neurol 2019; 10:162. [PMID: 30873110 PMCID: PMC6400846 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Motion perception following rotational vestibular stimulation is described either as a self-motion or as an environmental-motion. The purpose of the present study was to establish frequency of occurrence of both sensations in healthy humans; what other sensations they experience and how factors insinuation and visual cues modify them. Twenty-four healthy subjects were rotated with constant velocity of 80°/s in four combinations of opened and closed eyes during the rotation and after a sudden stop. After the cessation of the rotation they reported their spontaneous or insinuated illusory motion. During spontaneous perception after sudden cessation of rotation and with the subject's eyes open, the illusory sensations of self- and environmental-motion were almost equally presented. There was no simultaneous illusory perception of self-motion and environmental-motion. Insinuation modified the perception of motion; presence or absence of visual cues prior to the cessation of the rotation and the presence or absence of visual cues immediately after the cessation of the rotation changed the motion sensation. There is a gender effect in motion perception. This finding might be of benefit in further exploring the gender difference in the susceptibility to motion sickness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ognyan I Kolev
- University Hospital of Neurology and Psychiatry, Sofia, Bulgaria.,Institute of Neurobiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
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19
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Galvan-Garza RC, Clark TK, Sherwood D, Diaz-Artiles A, Rosenberg M, Natapoff A, Karmali F, Oman CM, Young LR. Human perception of whole body roll-tilt orientation in a hypogravity analog: underestimation and adaptation. J Neurophysiol 2018; 120:3110-3121. [PMID: 30332330 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00140.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Overestimation of roll tilt in hypergravity ("G-excess" illusion) has been demonstrated, but corresponding sustained hypogravic conditions are impossible to create in ground laboratories. In this article we describe the first systematic experimental evidence that in a hypogravity analog, humans underestimate roll tilt. We studied perception of self-roll tilt in nine subjects, who were supine while spun on a centrifuge to create a hypogravity analog. By varying the centrifuge rotation rate, we modulated the centripetal acceleration (GC) at the subject's head location (0.5 or 1 GC) along the body axis. We measured orientation perception using a subjective visual vertical task in which subjects aligned an illuminated bar with their perceived centripetal acceleration direction during tilts (±11.5-28.5°). As hypothesized, based on the reduced utricular otolith shearing, subjects initially underestimated roll tilts in the 0.5 GC condition compared with the 1 GC condition (mean perceptual gain change = -0.27, P = 0.01). When visual feedback was given after each trial in 0.5 GC, subjects' perceptual gain increased in approximately exponential fashion over time (time constant = 16 tilts or 13 min), and after 45 min, the perceptual gain was not significantly different from the 1 GC baseline (mean gain difference between 1 GC initial and 0.5 GC final = 0.16, P = 0.3). Thus humans modified their interpretation of sensory cues to more correctly report orientation during this hypogravity analog. Quantifying the acute orientation perceptual learning in such an altered gravity environment may have implications for human space exploration on the moon or Mars. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Humans systematically overestimate roll tilt in hypergravity. However, human perception of orientation in hypogravity has not been quantified across a range of tilt angles. Using a centrifuge to create a hypogravity centripetal acceleration environment, we found initial underestimation of roll tilt. Providing static visual feedback, perceptual learning reduced underestimation during the hypogravity analog. These altered gravity orientation perceptual errors and adaptation may have implications for astronauts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel C Galvan-Garza
- Jenks Vestibular Physiology Laboratory, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Massachusetts.,Man-Vehicle Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Torin K Clark
- Jenks Vestibular Physiology Laboratory, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Massachusetts.,Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School , Boston, Massachusetts.,Man-Vehicle Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge, Massachusetts.,Smead Aerospace Engineering Sciences, University of Colorado , Boulder, Colorado
| | - David Sherwood
- Jenks Vestibular Physiology Laboratory, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Massachusetts.,Man-Vehicle Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Ana Diaz-Artiles
- Jenks Vestibular Physiology Laboratory, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Massachusetts.,Man-Vehicle Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge, Massachusetts.,Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University , Ithaca, New York.,Aerospace Engineering, Texas A&M University , College Station, Texas
| | - Marissa Rosenberg
- Jenks Vestibular Physiology Laboratory, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Massachusetts.,KBRwyle Science, Technology, and Engineering Group , Houston, Texas
| | - Alan Natapoff
- Man-Vehicle Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Faisal Karmali
- Jenks Vestibular Physiology Laboratory, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Massachusetts.,Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School , Boston, Massachusetts.,Man-Vehicle Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Charles M Oman
- Man-Vehicle Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Laurence R Young
- Man-Vehicle Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology , Cambridge, Massachusetts
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20
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21
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Li X, Ohgami N, Omata Y, Yajima I, Iida M, Oshino R, Ohnuma S, Ahsan N, Akhand AA, Kato M. Oral exposure to arsenic causes hearing loss in young people aged 12-29 years and in young mice. Sci Rep 2017; 7:6844. [PMID: 28754998 PMCID: PMC5533757 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-06096-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is no information on the association between oral exposure to arsenic (As) and hearing loss in humans or mice. In this combined epidemiological study and experimental study, the association of oral exposure to As with hearing loss in people aged 12–29 years and young mice was examined. Subjects in the exposure group (n = 48), who were drinking tube well water contaminated with As, showed significantly higher risks of hearing loss at 4 kHz [odds ratio (OR) = 7.60; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.56, 57.88], 8 kHz (OR = 5.00; 95% CI: 1.48, 18.90) and 12 kHz (OR = 8.72; 95% CI: 2.09, 47.77) than did subjects in the control group (n = 29). We next performed an experiment in which young mice were exposed to As via drinking water at 22.5 mg/L, which is a much greater concentration than that in human studies. The exposure group showed hearing loss and accumulation of As in inner ears. Ex vivo exposure of the organ of Corti from mice exposed to As significantly decreased the number of auditory neurons and fibers. Thus, our combined study showed that oral exposure to As caused hearing loss in young people and young mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Li
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Nobutaka Ohgami
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.,Nutritional Health Science Research Center, Chubu University, 1200 Matsumoto, Kasugai, 487-8501, Aichi, Japan.,Voluntary Body for International Health Care in Universities, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Omata
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Ichiro Yajima
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.,Voluntary Body for International Health Care in Universities, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Machiko Iida
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.,Nutritional Health Science Research Center, Chubu University, 1200 Matsumoto, Kasugai, 487-8501, Aichi, Japan
| | - Reina Oshino
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.,Voluntary Body for International Health Care in Universities, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Shoko Ohnuma
- Voluntary Body for International Health Care in Universities, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Nazmul Ahsan
- Voluntary Body for International Health Care in Universities, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Anwarul Azim Akhand
- Voluntary Body for International Health Care in Universities, Nagoya, Japan.,Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Masashi Kato
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan. .,Voluntary Body for International Health Care in Universities, Nagoya, Japan.
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22
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Feasibility and Neurobehavioral Changes of 10-Day Simulated Microgravity in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2017; 96:838-842. [PMID: 28604410 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000000765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to investigate feasibility and functional changes of simulated microgravity with 6-degree head-down-tilt (HDT) bed rest in acute ischemic stroke. DESIGN Patients without lesions in the cingulate cortex and/or cerebellum were enrolled. They underwent HDT for 30 minutes twice per day for 10 weekdays. Systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and heart rate were measured before the HDT, immediately after, and also 30 minutes after the stop. Mini-Mental State Examination, Geriatric Depression Scale, Neurobehavioral Tests (i.e., span test, finger-tapping test, continuous performance test, and trail-making test) were conducted before and after the 10-day HDT. RESULTS One male and four female patients (median age = 64.6 yrs [SD = 10.5 yrs]) were recruited. Changes in the finger-tapping test (57.80 [SD = 40.96 ] vs. 85.80 [SD = 0.46], P = 0.08) and in the digit span backward test (3.60 [SD = 1.14] vs. 1.42 [SD = 1.75], P = 0.07) were noticed. Few changes were found in other scales. No significant changes in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, or heart rate were observed, and no adverse effects occurred. CONCLUSIONS The 6-degree HDT revealed no adverse effects on the cardiovascular system, showing nonsignificant increment in the finger-tapping test (representative of motor speed and performance) and nonsignificant reduction in the digit backward span test (representative of spatial memory).
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23
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Van Ombergen A, Laureys S, Sunaert S, Tomilovskaya E, Parizel PM, Wuyts FL. Spaceflight-induced neuroplasticity in humans as measured by MRI: what do we know so far? NPJ Microgravity 2017. [PMID: 28649624 PMCID: PMC5445591 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-016-0010-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Space travel poses an enormous challenge on the human body; microgravity, ionizing radiation, absence of circadian rhythm, confinement and isolation are just some of the features associated with it. Obviously, all of the latter can have an impact on human physiology and even induce detrimental changes. Some organ systems have been studied thoroughly under space conditions, however, not much is known on the functional and morphological effects of spaceflight on the human central nervous system. Previous studies have already shown that central nervous system changes occur during and after spaceflight in the form of neurovestibular problems, alterations in cognitive function and sensory perception, cephalic fluid shifts and psychological disturbances. However, little is known about the underlying neural substrates. In this review, we discuss the current limited knowledge on neuroplastic changes in the human central nervous system associated with spaceflight (actual or simulated) as measured by magnetic resonance imaging-based techniques. Furthermore, we discuss these findings as well as their future perspectives, since this can encourage future research into this delicate and intriguing aspect of spaceflight. Currently, the literature suffers from heterogeneous experimental set-ups and therefore, the lack of comparability of findings among studies. However, the cerebellum, cortical sensorimotor and somatosensory areas and vestibular-related pathways seem to be involved across different studies, suggesting that these brain regions are most affected by (simulated) spaceflight. Extending this knowledge is crucial, especially with the eye on long-duration interplanetary missions (e.g. Mars) and space tourism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelique Van Ombergen
- Antwerp University Research Centre for Equilibrium and Aerospace (AUREA), University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, Antwerp, 2020 Belgium.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, Wilrijk (Antwerp), 2610 Belgium.,Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biomedical Physics, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, Antwerp, 2020 Belgium
| | - Steven Laureys
- Coma Science Group, GIGA-Research & Neurology Department, University and University Hospital of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Stefan Sunaert
- KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Department of Imaging & Pathology, Translational MRI, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Elena Tomilovskaya
- SSC RF-Institute of Biomedical Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Paul M Parizel
- Department of Radiology, Antwerp University Hospital & University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Floris L Wuyts
- Antwerp University Research Centre for Equilibrium and Aerospace (AUREA), University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, Antwerp, 2020 Belgium.,Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biomedical Physics, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, Antwerp, 2020 Belgium
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24
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Gemignani J, Gheysens T, Summerer L. Beyond astronaut's capabilities: The current state of the art. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2016; 2015:3615-8. [PMID: 26737075 DOI: 10.1109/embc.2015.7319175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Space agencies have developed extensive expertise with sustaining human presence in low earth orbits and microgravity. Prolonged human presence in space beyond EarthâĂŹs orbit presents additional, some still unsolved issues. These are linked to the distance to Earth (impossibility of effective tele-operation, psychological effects linked to remoteness from Earth, required autonomy, the handling of emergencies, long mission durations), and to the environments beyond the Earth magnetosphere (radiation levels, local environments including atmospheres, dust, gravity, day-night cycles). These issues have impacts on the spacecraft design, the mission operations, astronaut selection and preparation and required supporting/ enabling technologies. This paper builds upon previous work by Rossini et al. , in critically reviewing and updating the current state of scientific research on enhancing astronaut's capabilities to face some of these challenges. In particular, it discusses the pertinence and feasibility of two approaches aiming at enhancing the chances of success of human missions: induced hibernation state and brain-machine interfaces.
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25
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Zhang H, Ren NT, Zhou FQ, Li J, Lei W, Liu N, Bi L, Wu ZX, Zhang R, Zhang YG, Cui G. Effects of Hindlimb Unweighting on MBP and GDNF Expression and Morphology in Rat Dorsal Root Ganglia Neurons. Neurochem Res 2016; 41:2433-42. [DOI: 10.1007/s11064-016-1956-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Revised: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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26
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Watenpaugh DE. Analogs of microgravity: head-down tilt and water immersion. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2016; 120:904-14. [DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00986.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
This article briefly reviews the fidelity of ground-based methods used to simulate human existence in weightlessness (spaceflight). These methods include horizontal bed rest (BR), head-down tilt bed rest (HDT), head-out water immersion (WI), and head-out dry immersion (DI; immersion with an impermeable elastic cloth barrier between subject and water). Among these, HDT has become by far the most commonly used method, especially for longer studies. DI is less common but well accepted for long-duration studies. Very few studies exist that attempt to validate a specific simulation mode against actual microgravity. Many fundamental physical, and thus physiological, differences exist between microgravity and our methods to simulate it, and between the different methods. Also, although weightlessness is the salient feature of spaceflight, several ancillary factors of space travel complicate Earth-based simulation. In spite of these discrepancies and complications, the analogs duplicate many responses to 0 G reasonably well. As we learn more about responses to microgravity and spaceflight, investigators will continue to fine-tune simulation methods to optimize accuracy and applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald E. Watenpaugh
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, Texas
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27
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Gao Y, Li S, Xu D, Wang J, Sun Y. Changes in apoptotic microRNA and mRNA expression profiling in Caenorhabditis elegans during the Shenzhou-8 mission. JOURNAL OF RADIATION RESEARCH 2015; 56:872-82. [PMID: 26286471 PMCID: PMC4628221 DOI: 10.1093/jrr/rrv050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/21/2015] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Radiation and microgravity exposure have been proven to induce abnormal apoptosis in microRNA (miRNA) and mRNA expression, but whether space conditions, including radiation and microgravity, activate miRNAs to regulate the apoptosis is undetermined. For that purpose, we investigated miRNome and mRNA expression in the ced-1 Caenorhabditis elegans mutant vs the wild-type, both of which underwent spaceflight, spaceflight 1g-centrifuge control and ground control conditions during the Shenzhou-8 mission. Results showed that no morphological changes in the worms were detected, but differential miRNA expression increased from 43 (ground control condition) to 57 and 91 in spaceflight and spaceflight control conditions, respectively. Microgravity altered miRNA expression profiling by decreasing the number and significance of differentially expressed miRNA compared with 1 g incubation during spaceflight. Alterations in the miRNAs were involved in alterations in apoptosis, neurogenesis larval development, ATP metabolism and GTPase-mediated signal transduction. Among these, 17 altered miRNAs potentially involved in apoptosis were screened and showed obviously different expression signatures between space conditions. By integrated analysis of miRNA and mRNA, miR-797 and miR-81 may be involved in apoptosis by targeting the genes ced-10 and both drp-1 and hsp-1, respectively. Compared with ground condition, space conditions regulated apoptosis though a different manner on transcription, by altering expression of seven core apoptotic genes in spaceflight condition, and eight in spaceflight control condition. Results indicate that, miRNA of Caenorhabditis elegans probably regulates apoptotic gene expression in response to space environmental stress, and shows different behavior under microgravity condition compared with 1 g condition in the presence of space radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Gao
- Institute of Environmental Systems Biology, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Linghai Road 1, Dalian 116026, China
| | - Shuai Li
- Institute of Environmental Systems Biology, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Linghai Road 1, Dalian 116026, China
| | - Dan Xu
- Institute of Environmental Systems Biology, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Linghai Road 1, Dalian 116026, China
| | - Junjun Wang
- Institute of Environmental Systems Biology, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Linghai Road 1, Dalian 116026, China
| | - Yeqing Sun
- Institute of Environmental Systems Biology, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Linghai Road 1, Dalian 116026, China
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