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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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2
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Liang R, Wang L, Sun S, Zheng C, Yang J, Ming D. Medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampus in mice differently affected by simulate microgravity and social isolation associated with the alternation of emotional and cognitive functions. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2022; 33:21-32. [PMID: 35491026 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2022.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Long-term spaceflight has been proved to cause physical impairments such as motor, cardiovascular and endocrine functions in astronauts. But psychological effects such as mood and social interaction are less well understood. Besides, there are conflicting accounts of their effects on cognitive function. Thus in this study, we exposed mice (18-21 g) to 28-day simulate microgravity and social isolation (SM+SI) and examined its effects on mood, social interaction and cognitive function. We found that four weeks of SM+SI exposure resulted in emotional and specific social barriers, which may be associated with loss of neurons and decreased dendritic spine density in the medial prefrontal cortex. Unexpectedly, SM+SI enhanced the short and long-term cognitive abilities of mice, which may be related to the anti-apoptotic effect of SM+SI regulating the level of apoptotic factors in the hippocampus. These results indicates that SM+SI, as chronic stressor, can induce the body to establish effective coping strategies to enhance individuals' cognitive ability; on the other hand, long-term exposure to SM+SI causes emotional/social barriers. This study further demonstrates SM+SI causes different effects in a brain-region specific manner. Current findings provide a theoretical basis for understanding how SM+SI acts on the brain structure to influence mental health, and may be useful for designing effective prevention for those, including the astronauts, exposed to microgravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Liang
- Institute of Medical Engineering & Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Ling Wang
- School of Precision Instrument and Opto-Electronics Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Shufan Sun
- School of Precision Instrument and Opto-Electronics Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Chenguang Zheng
- School of Precision Instrument and Opto-Electronics Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Brain Science and Neural Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Jiajia Yang
- Institute of Medical Engineering & Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; School of Precision Instrument and Opto-Electronics Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Brain Science and Neural Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China.
| | - Dong Ming
- Institute of Medical Engineering & Translational Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; School of Precision Instrument and Opto-Electronics Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Brain Science and Neural Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China.
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3
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Gatti M, Palumbo R, Di Domenico A, Mammarella N. Affective health and countermeasures in long-duration space exploration. Heliyon 2022; 8:e09414. [PMID: 35607498 PMCID: PMC9123223 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Space research is shifting attention toward interplanetary expeditions. Therefore, whether long-duration spaceflight may influence affective health is becoming an urgent issue. Method To this end, we undertook a literature search and reviewed several behavioral simulation studies on Earth that focused on affective components in space. We concluded with studies showing how spaceflight can impact on affective health of astronauts with a positively laden trajectory. Results By analyzing the multifaceted theoretical concept of affective health, we show that there is a variety of affective states (e.g., stress, coping, adaptation, and resilience) that can be differently affected by spaceflight. Conclusions Countermeasures geared toward promoting positive emotions could play a key role in positive adaptation to extreme environments and thus during long-duration space missions may benefit. Subjective resilience plays a mediating role in adaptation, but its definition needs to be deepened in order to develop robust countermeasures that may prevent the onset of emotional disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Gatti
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Health and Territory, University of Chieti, Italy
| | - Rocco Palumbo
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Health and Territory, University of Chieti, Italy
| | - Alberto Di Domenico
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Health and Territory, University of Chieti, Italy
| | - Nicola Mammarella
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Health and Territory, University of Chieti, Italy
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4
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Worts PR, Mason JR, Burkhart SO, Sanchez-Gonzalez MA, Kim JS. The acute, systemic effects of aerobic exercise in recently concussed adolescent student-athletes: preliminary findings. Eur J Appl Physiol 2022; 122:1441-1457. [PMID: 35303160 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-022-04932-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Examine the acute effects (pre-, during, post-intervention) of two different intensities of aerobic exercise or rest on autonomic, oculomotor, and vestibular function and symptom burden in patients with a recent sport-related concussion (SRC) and compare their responses to sex-matched, age-stratified, non-concussed (HEALTHY) student-athletes. METHODS Student-athletes between the ages of 13 and 18 that presented to the sports medicine clinic within Day 3-7 post-SRC and from local schools were recruited for a randomized controlled trial (RCT). The participants were administered the Vestibular/Ocular Motor Screening (VOMS), King-Devick (K-D), and Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS) before and after the intervention. Heart rate variability (HRV) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were collected before, during, and after the intervention. The intervention was either a single, 20-min session of treadmill walking at 40% (40HR) or 60% of age-predicted max heart rate (60HR), or seated, rest (NOEX). RESULTS 30 participants completed the intervention with the SRC group treated 4.5 ± 1.3 days post-injury. Pre-exercise HRV and MAP were significantly different (p's < 0.001) during treatment but returned to pre-exercise values within 5 min of recovery in both the SRC and HEALTHY groups. Both the SRC and HEALTHY groups exhibited similar reductions pre- to post-intervention for symptom severity and count (p's < 0.05), three VOMS items (p's < 0.05) but not K-D time. CONCLUSIONS To date, this is the first adolescent RCT to report the acute, systemic effects of aerobic exercise on recently concussed adolescent athletes. The interventions appeared safe in SRC participants, were well-tolerated, and provided brief therapeutic benefit. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier NCT03575455.
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Affiliation(s)
- P R Worts
- Tallahassee Orthopedic Clinic, Tallahassee, FL, USA. .,Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA. .,Institute of Sports Sciences and Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA.
| | - J R Mason
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - S O Burkhart
- Children's Health Andrews Institute, Plano, TX, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX, USA
| | | | - J-S Kim
- Department of Nutrition and Integrative Physiology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA.,Institute of Sports Sciences and Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
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5
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Tobita K, Mekjavic IB, McDonnell AC. Individual Variation Exists Within the Psychological Response to Hypoxic Bed Rest: A Retrospective Analysis. Front Physiol 2022; 13:810055. [PMID: 35222078 PMCID: PMC8870828 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.810055] [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: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Individual variation is of interest to Space Agency's, which cannot be explored with astronauts due to anonymity. We retrospectively analysed data collected throughout three projects (LunHab: 10-day male, PlanHab: 21-day male, and FemHab: 10-day female) to elucidate the potentially masked individual variation in the psychological responses to bed rest. The Profile of Mood State (POMS) and Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) - instruments used to asses psychological state - and Lake Louise Mountain Sickness (LLMS) scores were collected prior to, following and throughout three interventions: 1: normoxic bed rest 2: hypoxic bed rest and 3: hypoxic ambulatory confinement. Total Mood Disturbance (TMD) was calculated from the POMS results, positive affect (PA), and negative affect (NA) from PANAS. The three instruments were included in a latent class mixed model. TMD, NA, and LLMS were included in a four-class model, with each class representing a specific type of response (Class 1: descending, Class 2: flat, Class 3: somewhat flat, Class 4: ascending). Responses for PA were assigned to only two classes (Classes 1 and 2). 54.55% or 24 participants were included in Class 2 (TMD, NA, and LLMS), where the responses did not change and neither hypoxia or activity level had a significant effect on emotional state. The remaining participants were allotted to Class 1, 3, or 4, where hypoxia was a significant covariate, while activity (bed rest) was significant only for class 3. For PA, 84.09% or 37 participants were assigned to class 2 indicating a significant effect of hypoxia on the participants responses with no effect of physical activity. Class 1 participants (n = 7) were not affected by hypoxia, however, physical activity improved their PA. Participants undergoing confinement, hypoxia and bed rest do not exhibit a uniform emotional response and may be categorised into 2-4 distinct classes. These results indicate significant individual emotional responses, that may be masked and underreported by traditional statistical approaches like means ± SD. The emotional state of our participants is a complex construct likely influenced by past experiences and different coping mechanisms which allowed some to adapt to the experimental environment more readily.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunihito Tobita
- Department of Sustainable System Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Sakai, Japan
| | - Igor B. Mekjavic
- Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Adam C. McDonnell
- Department of Automation, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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6
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Mhatre SD, Iyer J, Puukila S, Paul AM, Tahimic CGT, Rubinstein L, Lowe M, Alwood JS, Sowa MB, Bhattacharya S, Globus RK, Ronca AE. Neuro-consequences of the spaceflight environment. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 132:908-935. [PMID: 34767877 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.09.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
As human space exploration advances to establish a permanent presence beyond the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) with NASA's Artemis mission, researchers are striving to understand and address the health challenges of living and working in the spaceflight environment. Exposure to ionizing radiation, microgravity, isolation and other spaceflight hazards pose significant risks to astronauts. Determining neurobiological and neurobehavioral responses, understanding physiological responses under Central Nervous System (CNS) control, and identifying putative mechanisms to inform countermeasure development are critically important to ensuring brain and behavioral health of crew on long duration missions. Here we provide a detailed and comprehensive review of the effects of spaceflight and of ground-based spaceflight analogs, including simulated weightlessness, social isolation, and ionizing radiation on humans and animals. Further, we discuss dietary and non-dietary countermeasures including artificial gravity and antioxidants, among others. Significant future work is needed to ensure that neural, sensorimotor, cognitive and other physiological functions are maintained during extended deep space missions to avoid potentially catastrophic health and safety outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddhita D Mhatre
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA; KBR, Houston, TX, 77002, USA; COSMIAC Research Center, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Janani Iyer
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA; Universities Space Research Association, Columbia, MD, 21046, USA
| | - Stephanie Puukila
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA; Universities Space Research Association, Columbia, MD, 21046, USA; Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Amber M Paul
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA; Universities Space Research Association, Columbia, MD, 21046, USA
| | - Candice G T Tahimic
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA; KBR, Houston, TX, 77002, USA; Department of Biology, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA
| | - Linda Rubinstein
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA; Universities Space Research Association, Columbia, MD, 21046, USA
| | - Moniece Lowe
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA; Blue Marble Space Institute of Science, Seattle, WA, 98154, USA
| | - Joshua S Alwood
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA
| | - Marianne B Sowa
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA
| | - Sharmila Bhattacharya
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA
| | - Ruth K Globus
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA
| | - April E Ronca
- Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, 94035, USA; Wake Forest Medical School, Winston-Salem, NC, 27101, USA.
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7
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Wang Q, Dong L, Wang M, Chen S, Li S, Chen Y, He W, Zhang H, Zhang Y, Pires Dias AC, Yang S, Liu X. Dammarane Sapogenins Improving Simulated Weightlessness-Induced Depressive-Like Behaviors and Cognitive Dysfunction in Rats. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:638328. [PMID: 33841208 PMCID: PMC8032884 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.638328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Our studies demonstrated that the space environment has an impact on the brain function of astronauts. Numerous ground-based microgravity and social isolation showed that the space environment can induce brain function damages in humans and animals. Dammarane sapogenins (DS), an active fraction from oriental ginseng, possesses neuropsychic protective effects and has been shown to improve depression and memory. This study aimed to explore the effects and mechanisms of DS in attenuating depressive-like behaviors and cognitive deficiency induced by simulated weightlessness and isolation [hindlimb suspension and isolation (HLSI)] in rats. Methods: Male rats were orally administered with two different doses of DS (37.5, 75 mg/kg) for 14 days, and huperzine-A (1 mg/kg) served as positive control. Rats were subjected to HLSI for 14 days except the control group during drug administration. The depressive-like behaviors were then evaluated by the open-field test, the novel object recognition test, and the forced swimming test. The spatial memory and working memory were evaluated by the Morris water maze (MWM) test, and the related mechanism was further explored by analyzing the activity of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the hippocampus of rats. Results: The results showed that DS treatment significantly reversed the HLSI-induced depressive-like behaviors in the open-field test, the novel object recognition test, and the forced swimming test and improved the HLSI-induced cognitive impairment in the MWM test. Furthermore, after DS treatment, the ChAT and SOD activities of HLSI rats were increased while AChE activity was significantly suppressed. Conclusions: These findings clearly demonstrated that DS might exert a significant neuropsychic protective effect induced by spaceflight environment, driven in part by the modulation of cholinergic system and anti-oxidation in the hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Wang
- Affiliated (T.C.M) Hospital, Sino-Portugal Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) International Cooperation Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.,Institute of Food Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing, China
| | - Li Dong
- Affiliated (T.C.M) Hospital, Sino-Portugal Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) International Cooperation Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Mengdi Wang
- Affiliated (T.C.M) Hospital, Sino-Portugal Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) International Cooperation Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Shanguang Chen
- National Key Laboratory of Human Factors Engineering, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- Affiliated (T.C.M) Hospital, Sino-Portugal Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) International Cooperation Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.,Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yongbing Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenlu He
- Affiliated (T.C.M) Hospital, Sino-Portugal Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) International Cooperation Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yongliang Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Human Factors Engineering, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, China
| | - Alberto Carlos Pires Dias
- Affiliated (T.C.M) Hospital, Sino-Portugal Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) International Cooperation Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.,Department of Biology, University of Mihno, Braga, Portugal
| | - Sijin Yang
- Affiliated (T.C.M) Hospital, Sino-Portugal Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) International Cooperation Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xinmin Liu
- Affiliated (T.C.M) Hospital, Sino-Portugal Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) International Cooperation Center, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.,Research Center for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Institute of Medicinal Plant Development (IMPLAD), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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8
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Effects of centrifugation and whole-body vibrations on blood-brain barrier permeability in mice. NPJ Microgravity 2020; 6:1. [PMID: 31934612 PMCID: PMC6946672 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-019-0094-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Modifications of gravity levels induce generalized adaptation of mammalian physiology, including vascular, brain, muscle, bone and immunity functions. As a crucial interface between the vascular system and the brain, the blood–brain barrier (BBB) acts as a filter to protect neurons from pathogens and inflammation. Here we compare the effects of several protocols of hypergravity induced by centrifugation and whole-body vibrations (WBV) on BBB integrity. The immunohistochemistry revealed immunoglobulin G (IgG) extravasation from blood to hippocampal parenchyma of mice centrifuged at 2 × g during 1 or 50 days, whereas short exposures to higher hypergravity mimicking the profiles of spaceflight landing and take-off (short exposures to 5 × g) had no effects. These results suggest prolonged centrifugation (>1 days) at 2 × g induced a BBB leakage. Moreover, WBV were similarly tested. The short exposure to +2 × g vibrations (900 s/day at 90 Hz) repeated for 63 days induced IgG extravasation in hippocampal parenchyma, whereas the progressive increase of vibrations from +0.5 to +2 × g for 63 days was not able to affect the IgG crossing through the BBB. Overall, these results suggest that the BBB permeability is sensitive to prolonged external accelerations. In conclusion, we advise that the protocols of WBV and centrifugation, proposed as countermeasure to spaceflight, should be designed with progressively increasing exposure to reduce potential side effects on the BBB.
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9
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Basner M, Nasrini J, Hermosillo E, McGuire S, Dinges DF, Moore TM, Gur RC, Rittweger J, Mulder E, Wittkowski M, Donoviel D, Stevens B, Bershad EM. Effects of −12° head-down tilt with and without elevated levels of CO2 on cognitive performance: the SPACECOT study. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2018; 124:750-760. [DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00855.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Microgravity and elevated levels of CO2 are two common environmental stressors in spaceflight that may affect cognitive performance of astronauts. In this randomized, double-blind, crossover trial (SPACECOT), 6 healthy males (mean ± SD age: 41 ± 5 yr) were exposed to 0.04% (ambient air) and 0.5% CO2 concentrations during 26.5-h periods of −12° head-down tilt (HDT) bed rest with a 1-wk washout period between exposures. Subjects performed the 10 tests of the Cognition Test Battery before and on average 0.1, 5.2, and 21.0 h after the initiation of HDT bed rest. HDT in ambient air induced a change in response strategy, with increased response speed (+0.19 SD; P = 0.0254) at the expense of accuracy (−0.19 SD; P = 0.2867), resulting in comparable cognitive efficiency. The observed effects were small and statistically significant for cognitive speed only. However, even small declines in accuracy can potentially cause errors during mission-critical tasks in spaceflight. Unexpectedly, exposure to 0.5% CO2 reversed the response strategy changes observed under HDT in ambient air. This was possibly related to hypercapnia-induced cerebrovascular reactivity that favors cortical regions in general and the frontal cortex in particular, or to the CNS arousing properties of mildly to moderately increased CO2 levels. There were no statistically significant time-in-CO2 effects for any cognitive outcome. The small sample size and the small effect sizes are major limitations of this study and its findings. The results should not be generalized beyond the group of investigated subjects until they are confirmed by adequately powered follow-up studies. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Simulating microgravity with exposure to 21 h of −12° head-down tilt bed rest caused a change in response strategy on a range of cognitive tests, with a statistically significant increase in response speed at the expense of accuracy. Cognitive efficiency was not affected. The observed speed-accuracy tradeoff was small but may nevertheless be important for mission-critical tasks in spaceflight. Importantly, the change in response strategy was reversed by increasing CO2 concentrations to 0.5%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias Basner
- Division of Sleep and Chronobiology, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jad Nasrini
- Division of Sleep and Chronobiology, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Emanuel Hermosillo
- Division of Sleep and Chronobiology, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sarah McGuire
- Division of Sleep and Chronobiology, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - David F. Dinges
- Division of Sleep and Chronobiology, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Tyler M. Moore
- Brain Behavior Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Ruben C. Gur
- Brain Behavior Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jörn Rittweger
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Edwin Mulder
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany
| | - Martin Wittkowski
- Institute of Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Cologne, Germany
| | - Dorit Donoviel
- Department of Neurology and Center for Space Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Brian Stevens
- Department of Neurology and Center for Space Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Eric M. Bershad
- Department of Neurology and Center for Space Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
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10
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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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11
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iTRAQ-based proteomics analysis of hippocampus in spatial memory deficiency rats induced by simulated microgravity. J Proteomics 2017; 160:64-73. [PMID: 28341594 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2017.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2016] [Revised: 03/02/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
It has been demonstrated that simulated microgravity (SM) may lead to cognitive dysfunction. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In present study, tail-suspension (30°) rat was employed to explore the effects of 28 days of SM on hippocampus-dependent learning and memory capability and the underlying mechanisms. We found that 28-day tail-suspension rats displayed decline of learning and memory ability in Morris water maze (MWM) test. Using iTRAQ-based proteomics analysis, a total of 4774 proteins were quantified in hippocampus. Of these identified proteins, 147 proteins were differentially expressed between tail-suspension and control group. Further analysis showed these differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) involved in different molecular function categories, and participated in many biological processes. Based on the results of PANTHER pathway analysis and further western blot verification, we observed the expression of glutamate receptor 1 (GluR1) and glutamate receptor 4 (GluR4) which involved in metabotropic glutamate receptor group III pathway and ionotropic glutamate receptor pathway were significantly induced by SM. Moreover, an increased concentration of glutamic acid (Glu) was also found in hippocampus while the concentrations of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), dopamine (DA), γ-amino acid butyric acid (GABA) and epinephrine (E) were decreased. Our finding confirms that 28-day SM exposure can cause degrading of the spatial learning and memory capability and the possible mechanisms might be related with glutamate excitotoxicity and imbalances in specific neurotransmitters. BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE The goal of sending astronauts farther into space and extending the duration of spaceflight missions from months to years will challenge the current capabilities of bioastronautics. The investigation of the physiological and pathological changes induced by spaceflight will be critical in developing countermeasures to ensure astronauts to complete spaceflight mission accurately and effectively and return to earth safely. It has been demonstrated that spaceflight may lead to impairments in cognitive function which is crucial for mission success. Here we show that long-term simulated microgravity, the most potent environment risk factor during spaceflight, impairs the spatial learning and memory of rats and the underlying mechanism may be involved in glutamate excitotoxicity and imbalances in specific neurotransmitters release in hippocampus, which may provide new insight for the countermeasures of cognitive impairment during spaceflight.
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Chen H, Lv K, Dai Z, Ji G, Wang T, Wang Y, Zhang Y, Kan G, Li Y, Qu L. Intramuscular injection of mechano growth factor E domain peptide regulated expression of memory-related sod, miR-134 and miR-125b-3p in rat hippocampus under simulated weightlessness. Biotechnol Lett 2016; 38:2071-2080. [PMID: 27623796 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-016-2210-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the expression of memory-related antioxidant genes and miRNAs under simulated weightlessness and the regulation of mechano growth factor (MGF) E domain, the peptide preventing nerve damage. RESULTS Igf-iea and mgf mRNA levels, expression of antioxidant genes sod1 and sod2 and levels of miR-134 and miR-125b-3p increased in rat hippocampus after 14 days tail suspension to simulate weightlessness which was inhibited with intramuscular injection of E domain peptide. Therefore, administration of MGF E domain peptide could reverse increased expressions of memory-related igf-iea, mgf, sod1, sod2, miR-134 and miR-125b-3p in rat hippocampus under simulated weightlessness. CONCLUSIONS MGF may regulate the redox state and miRNA-targeted NR-CREB signaling, and intramuscular injection may be the alternative administration because of its safety, convenience and ability to pass through the blood brain barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, 5132-23#, Beiqing Road 26#, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China.,Department of Health Technology Research and Development, Space Institute of Southern China (Shenzhen), Shamiao Road 4#, Pingdi Street, Longgang District, Shenzhen, 518117, China
| | - Ke Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, 5132-23#, Beiqing Road 26#, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Zhongquan Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, 5132-23#, Beiqing Road 26#, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Guohua Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, 5132-23#, Beiqing Road 26#, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Tingmei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, 5132-23#, Beiqing Road 26#, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Yanli Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, 5132-23#, Beiqing Road 26#, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Yongliang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, 5132-23#, Beiqing Road 26#, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Guanghan Kan
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, 5132-23#, Beiqing Road 26#, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Yinghui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, 5132-23#, Beiqing Road 26#, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China.
| | - Lina Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Space Medicine Fundamentals and Application, China Astronaut Research and Training Center, 5132-23#, Beiqing Road 26#, Haidian District, Beijing, 100094, China.
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Liu Q, Zhou RL, Zhao X, Chen XP, Chen SG. Acclimation during space flight: effects on human emotion. Mil Med Res 2016; 3:15. [PMID: 27134755 PMCID: PMC4850672 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-016-0084-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2015] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, studies on the extent to which spaceflight affects the psychology of individuals has received attention. In order to reveal the mental challenges that humans face in space, we need practical viewpoints to integrate the psychological effects, behavior, performance and the environment itself for space exploration. The present review discusses the individual variables related to space psychology and manned spaceflight, in addition to their growing trends. These items include patterns of emotional changes in extreme environments and the approaches to evaluating emotions. Moreover, the review concludes with suggested future research on emotion during spaceflight and its analogs. These data and information are needed to plan for the exploration of the Moon and Mars, along with contributions to the construction of the international space station (ISS) and astronaut training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Liu
- Department of Psychology, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023 China ; School of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875 China ; Research Center of Emotion Regulation, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875 China
| | - Ren-Lai Zhou
- Department of Psychology, School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023 China ; School of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875 China ; Research Center of Emotion Regulation, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875 China
| | - Xin Zhao
- School of Psychology, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, 730000 China
| | - Xiao-Ping Chen
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, 100094 China
| | - Shan-Guang Chen
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, 100094 China
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Wang Y, Iqbal J, Liu Y, Su R, Lu S, Peng G, Zhang Y, Qing H, Deng Y. Effects of simulated microgravity on the expression of presynaptic proteins distorting the GABA/glutamate equilibrium - A proteomics approach. Proteomics 2015; 15:3883-91. [DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201500302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2015] [Revised: 08/28/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yun Wang
- School of Life Sciences; Beijing Institute of Technology; Beijing P.R. China
| | - Javed Iqbal
- School of Life Sciences; Beijing Institute of Technology; Beijing P.R. China
| | - Yahui Liu
- School of Life Sciences; Beijing Institute of Technology; Beijing P.R. China
| | - Rui Su
- School of Life Sciences; Beijing Institute of Technology; Beijing P.R. China
| | - Song Lu
- School of Life Sciences; Beijing Institute of Technology; Beijing P.R. China
| | - Guang Peng
- School of Life Sciences; Beijing Institute of Technology; Beijing P.R. China
| | - Yongqian Zhang
- School of Life Sciences; Beijing Institute of Technology; Beijing P.R. China
| | - Hong Qing
- School of Life Sciences; Beijing Institute of Technology; Beijing P.R. China
| | - Yulin Deng
- School of Life Sciences; Beijing Institute of Technology; Beijing P.R. China
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