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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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Coq R, Watelain E, Castagna O. Temporal adaptation of the postural control following a prolonged fin swimming. Eur J Appl Physiol 2024:10.1007/s00421-024-05512-4. [PMID: 38802707 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-024-05512-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Postural control deteriorates following a transition between two environments, highlighting a sensory conflict when returning to natural conditions. Aquatic immersion offers new perspectives for studying postural control adaptation in transitional situations. Our aim is to study immediate and post-task static postural control adaptation on land after a prolonged fin swimming exercise in total immersion. METHODS Standing static postural control was assessed in 14 professional or recreational SCUBA divers (11 men, 3 women; 33.21 ± 10.70 years), with eyes open and closed, before, immediately after, and in the following 20 min following a fully-immersed 45-min fin swimming exercise. Centre-of-pressure metrics (COP) including average position, amplitude, velocity, length and 95% ellipse were evaluated in medial-lateral (x-axis) and anterior-posterior (y-axis) directions with a force platform. The Romberg ratio was also assessed for each metric. RESULTS A two-way repeated measures analysis of variance revealed a significant effect of the measurement period on COPx vel (p = 0.01), COPy vel (p < 0.01) and Length (p < 0.01), and of the visual condition on COPy vel (p < 0.01) and Length (p < 0.01). Eyes closed measures were systematically higher than eyes open measures despite there being no significant difference in the Romberg ratio in all periods. Post-immersion, the velocity and total trajectory of the centre of pressure remained systematically lower than baseline values in both visual conditions. CONCLUSION Post-immersion, COP velocity and length significantly decreased, suggesting a sensory reweighting strategy potentially associated with ankle stiffening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rémi Coq
- Perception Unit, Military Biomedical Research Institute-IRBA, Brétigny-sur-Orge, France
| | | | - Olivier Castagna
- Underwater Research Team-ERRSO, Military Biomedical Research Institute-IRBA, Toulon, France.
- LAMHESS (UPR 6312), Université de Nice, Nice, France.
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3
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Ahmed SS, Goswami N, Sirek A, Green DA, Winnard A, Fiebig L, Weber T. Systematic review of the effectiveness of standalone passive countermeasures on microgravity-induced physiologic deconditioning. NPJ Microgravity 2024; 10:48. [PMID: 38664498 PMCID: PMC11045828 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-024-00389-1] [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: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
A systematic review of literature was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of passive countermeasures in ameliorating the cardiopulmonary and musculoskeletal effects of gravitational unloading on humans during spaceflight. This systematic review is the third of a series being conducted by the European Space Agency to evaluate the effectiveness of countermeasures to physiologic deconditioning during spaceflight. With future long-duration space missions on the horizon, it is critical to understand the effectiveness of existing countermeasures to promote astronaut health and improve the probability of future mission success. An updated search for studies examining passive countermeasures was conducted in 2021 to supplement results from a broader search conducted in 2017 for all countermeasures. Ground-based analogue and spaceflight studies were included in the search. A total of 647 articles were screened following removal of duplicates, of which 16 were included in this review. Data extraction and analysis, quality assessment of studies, and transferability of reviewed studies to actual spaceflight based on their bed-rest protocol were conducted using dedicated tools created by the Aerospace Medicine Systematic Review Group. Of the 180 examined outcomes across the reviewed studies, only 20 were shown to have a significant positive effect in favour of the intervention group. Lower body negative pressure was seen to significantly maintain orthostatic tolerance (OT) closer to baseline as comparted to control groups. It also was seen to have mixed efficacy with regards to maintaining resting heart rate close to pre-bed rest values. Whole body vibration significantly maintained many balance-related outcome measures close to pre-bed rest values as compared to control. Skin surface cooling and centrifugation both showed efficacy in maintaining OT. Centrifugation also was seen to have mixed efficacy with regards to maintaining VO2max close to pre-bed rest values. Overall, standalone passive countermeasures showed no significant effect in maintaining 159 unique outcome measures close to their pre-bed rest values as compared to control groups. Risk of bias was rated high or unclear in all studies due to poorly detailed methodologies, poor control of confounding variables, and other sources of bias (i.e. inequitable recruitment of participants leading to a higher male:female ratios). The bed-rest transferability (BR) score varied from 2-7, with a median score of 5. Generally, most studies had good BR transferability but underreported on factors such as control of sunlight or radiation exposure, diet, level of exercise and sleep-cycles. We conclude that: (1) Lack of standardisation of outcome measurement and methodologies has led to large heterogeneity amongst studies; (2) Scarcity of literature and high risk of bias amongst existing studies limits the statistical power of results; and (3) Passive countermeasures have little or no efficacy as standalone measures against cardiopulmonary and musculoskeletal deconditioning induced by spaceflight related to physiologic deterioration due to gravity un-loading.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Shozab Ahmed
- Department of Family Medicine, Postgraduate Medical Education, Queen's University School of Medicine, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Nandu Goswami
- Division of Physiology, Otto Löwi Research Center for Vascular Biology, Immunity and Inflammation, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
- Integrative Health Department, Alma Mater Europaea Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia.
| | - Adam Sirek
- Faculty of Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Institute for Earth and Space Exploration, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - David Andrew Green
- King's College London, Centre of Human & Applied Physiological Sciences, London, UK
- Space Medicine Team, HRE-OM, European Astronaut Centre, European Space Agency, Cologne, Germany
- KBRwyle Laboratories GmbH, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Leonie Fiebig
- Space Biomedicine Systematic Review Methods, Wylam, UK
| | - Tobias Weber
- Space Medicine Team, HRE-OM, European Astronaut Centre, European Space Agency, Cologne, Germany
- KBRwyle Laboratories GmbH, Cologne, Germany
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Wang Z, Xie H, Chien JH. The margin of stability is affected differently when walking under quasi-random treadmill perturbations with or without full visual support. PeerJ 2024; 12:e16919. [PMID: 38390385 PMCID: PMC10883149 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Sensory-motor perturbations have been widely used to assess astronauts' balance in standing during pre-/post- spaceflight. However, balance control during walking, where most falls occur, was less studied in these astronauts. A study found that applying either visual or platform oscillations reduced the margin of stability (MOS) in the anterior-posterior direction (MOSap) but increased MOS in the medial-lateral direction (MOSml) as a tradeoff. This tradeoff induced an asymmetric gait. This study extended the current knowledge to investigate overall stability under unpredictable environments. This study aimed to determine (1) whether quasi-random treadmill perturbations with or without full vision support would result in a significant reduction in MOSap but an increase in MOSml and (2) regardless of whether vision support was provided, quasi-random treadmill perturbations might result in asymmetric gait patterns. Methods Twenty healthy young adults participated in this study. Three experimental conditions were semi-randomly assigned to these participants as follows: (1) the control condition (Norm), walking normally with their preferred walking speed on the treadmill; (2) the treadmill perturbations with full vision condition (Slip), walking on the quasi-random varying-treadmill-belt-speeds with full vision support; and (3) the treadmill perturbations without full vision condition (Slip_VisionBlocked, blackout vision through customized vision-blocked goggles), walking on the quasi-random varying-treadmill-belt-speeds without full vision support. The dependent variables were MOSap, MOSml, and respective symmetric indices. A one-way repeated ANOVA measure or Friedman Test was applied to investigate the differences among the conditions mentioned above. Results There was an increase in MOSap in Slip (p = 0.001) but a decrease in MOSap in Slip_VisionBlocked (p = 0.001) compared to Norm condition. The MOSml was significantly greater in both Slip and Slip_VisionBlocked conditions compared to the Norm condition (p = 0.011; p < 0.001). An analysis of Wilcoxon signed-rank tests revealed that the symmetric index of MOSml in Slip_VisionBlocked (p = 0.002) was greater than in the Norm condition. Conclusion The novelty of this study was to investigate the effect of vision on the overall stability of walking under quasi-random treadmill perturbations. The results revealed that overall stability and symmetry were controlled differently with/without full visual support. In light of these findings, it is imperative to take visual support into consideration while developing a sensory-motor training protocol. Asymmetric gait also required extra attention while walking on the quasi-random treadmill perturbations without full vision support to maintain overall stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Haoyu Xie
- Department of Health & Rehabilitation Science, College of Allied Health Professions, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States of America
| | - Jung H. Chien
- Independent Researcher, Omaha, NE, United States of America
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Dontre AJ. Weighing the impact of microgravity on vestibular and visual functions. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2024; 40:51-61. [PMID: 38245348 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2023.12.003] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Numerous technological challenges have been overcome to realize human space exploration. As mission durations gradually lengthen, the next obstacle is a set of physical limitations. Extended exposure to microgravity poses multiple threats to various bodily systems. Two of these systems are of particular concern for the success of future space missions. The vestibular system includes the otolith organs, which are stimulated in gravity but unloaded in microgravity. This impairs perception, posture, and coordination, all of which are relevant to mission success. Similarly, vision is impaired in many space travelers due to possible intracranial pressure changes or fluid shifts in the brain. As humankind prepares for extended missions to Mars and beyond, it is imperative to compensate for these perils in prolonged weightlessness. Possible countermeasures are considered such as exercise regimens, improved nutrition, and artificial gravity achieved with a centrifuge or spacecraft rotation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Dontre
- School of Psychology, Fielding Graduate University, 2020 De La Vina Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, USA; Department of Communications, Behavioral, and Natural Sciences, Franklin University, 201 South Grant Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215, USA.
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6
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Zhang L, Qin C, Chien JH. The sex effect on balance control while standing on vestibular-demanding tasks with/without vestibular simulations: implication for sensorimotor training for future space missions. Front Physiol 2024; 14:1298672. [PMID: 38264329 PMCID: PMC10804452 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1298672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Anatomical differences between sexes in the vestibular system have been reported. It has also been demonstrated that there is a sex difference in balance control while standing on vestibular-demanding tasks. In 2024, NASA expects to send the first female to the Moon. Therefore, to extend the current knowledge, this study attempted to examine whether different sexes respond differently to vestibular-disrupted and vestibular-demanding environments. Method: A total of fifteen males and fifteen females participated in this study. The vestibular function was quantified through different SOT conditions (SOT1: baseline; SOT5: vestibular demanding by standing with blindfolded and sway reference surface). The vestibular stimulation (VS) was applied either unilaterally or bilaterally to vestibular system to induce the sensory-conflicted and challenging tasks. Thus, a total of 6 conditions (2 SOT conditions X 3 VSs: no-VS, unilateral VS, and bilateral VS) were randomly given to these participants. Three approaches can be quantified the balance control: 1) the performance ratio (PR) of center of gravity trajectories (CoG), 2) the sample entropy measure (SampEn) of CoG, and 3) the total traveling distance of CoG. A mixed three-way repeated ANOVA measure was used to determine the interaction among the sex effect, the effect of SOT, and the effect of VS on balance control. Results: A significant sex effect on balance control was found in the PR of CoG in the anterior-posterior (AP) direction (p = 0.026) and in the SampEn of CoG in both AP and medial-lateral (ML) directions (p = 0.025, p < 0.001, respectively). Also, a significant interaction among the sex effect, the effect of SOT, and the effect of VS on balance control was observed in PR of CoG in the ML direction (p < 0.001), SampEn of CoG in the AP and ML directions (p = 0.002, p < 0.001, respectively), and a traveling distance in AP direction (p = 0.041). Conclusion: The findings in the present study clearly revealed the necessity to take sex effect into consideration while standing in vestibular-perturbed or/and vestibular demanding tasks. Also, the results in the present study could be a fundamental reference for future sensorimotor training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Chao Qin
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
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Faerman A, Clark JB, Sutton JP. Neuropsychological considerations for long-duration deep spaceflight. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1146096. [PMID: 37275233 PMCID: PMC10235498 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1146096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The deep space environment far beyond low-Earth orbit (LEO) introduces multiple and simultaneous risks for the functioning and health of the central nervous system (CNS), which may impair astronauts' performance and wellbeing. As future deep space missions to Mars, moons, or asteroids will also exceed current LEO stay durations and are estimated to require up to 3 years, we review recent evidence with contemporary and historic spaceflight case studies addressing implications for long-duration missions. To highlight the need for specific further investigations, we provide neuropsychological considerations integrating cognitive and motor functions, neuroimaging, neurological biomarkers, behavior changes, and mood and affect to construct a multifactorial profile to explain performance variability, subjective experience, and potential risks. We discuss the importance of adopting a neuropsychological approach to long-duration deep spaceflight (LDDS) missions and draw specific recommendations for future research in space neuropsychology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afik Faerman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Jonathan B. Clark
- Center for Space Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jeffrey P. Sutton
- Center for Space Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Translational Research Institute for Space Health, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
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8
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Salazar AP, McGregor HR, Hupfeld KE, Beltran NE, Kofman IS, De Dios YE, Riascos RF, Reuter-Lorenz PA, Bloomberg JJ, Mulavara AP, Wood SJ, Seidler R. Changes in working memory brain activity and task-based connectivity after long-duration spaceflight. Cereb Cortex 2023; 33:2641-2654. [PMID: 35704860 PMCID: PMC10016051 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhac232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We studied the longitudinal effects of approximately 6 months of spaceflight on brain activity and task-based connectivity during a spatial working memory (SWM) task. We further investigated whether any brain changes correlated with changes in SWM performance from pre- to post-flight. Brain activity was measured using functional magnetic resonance imaging while astronauts (n = 15) performed a SWM task. Data were collected twice pre-flight and 4 times post-flight. No significant effects on SWM performance or brain activity were found due to spaceflight; however, significant pre- to post-flight changes in brain connectivity were evident. Superior occipital gyrus showed pre- to post-flight reductions in task-based connectivity with the rest of the brain. There was also decreased connectivity between the left middle occipital gyrus and the left parahippocampal gyrus, left cerebellum, and left lateral occipital cortex during SWM performance. These results may reflect increased visual network modularity with spaceflight. Further, increased visual and visuomotor connectivity were correlated with improved SWM performance from pre- to post-flight, while decreased visual and visual-frontal cortical connectivity were associated with poorer performance post-flight. These results suggest that while SWM performance remains consistent from pre- to post-flight, underlying changes in connectivity among supporting networks suggest both disruptive and compensatory alterations due to spaceflight.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Heather R McGregor
- Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Kathleen E Hupfeld
- Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | | | - Igor S Kofman
- KBR, 601 Jefferson Street, Houston, TX 77002, United States
| | - Yiri E De Dios
- KBR, 601 Jefferson Street, Houston, TX 77002, United States
| | - Roy F Riascos
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Imaging, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin Street, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Patricia A Reuter-Lorenz
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, 530 Church St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Jacob J Bloomberg
- NASA Johnson Space Center, 2101 E NASA Parkway, Houston, TX 77058, United States
| | | | - Scott J Wood
- NASA Johnson Space Center, 2101 E NASA Parkway, Houston, TX 77058, United States
| | - RachaelD Seidler
- Corresponding author: Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States.
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López-de-Celis C, Zegarra-Chávez D, Cadellans-Arróniz A, Carrasco-Uribarren A, Izquierdo-Nebreda P, Canet-Vintró M, Rodríguez-Sanz J, Pérez-Bellmunt A. Study on Balance and Postural Control According to the Stabilometry in Indoor Skydivers: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:ijerph20010635. [PMID: 36612956 PMCID: PMC9819957 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The wind tunnel is a compression cabin through which a stream of air rises homogeneously, generated by fans. To perform different acrobatics, indoor skydivers have to change their body position by turning their body and orientation in reference to the space. Thus, the vestibular, visual and somatosensory systems are subjected to multiple disturbances. Postural control could be affected by altering the visual, vestibular and somatosensory systems during indoor skydiving in the wind tunnel. The aim of this study is to describe the influence of a standard wind tunnel training session on postural control in a normal gravitational situation in indoor skydiving. METHODS Ten indoor skydivers registered with the Royal Spanish Aeronautical Federation, who had participated in national or international competitions one year ago, were recruited. A single 30 min training session was performed. Postural control was assessed through posturographic analysis using a stabilometric platform immediately before and after the training session. The variables studied were related to the relative position and length of the centre of pressure. RESULTS No statistically significant changes were found between the initial and final assessment for the posturographic variables studied. CONCLUSIONS No differences in postural control were found after a standard wind tunnel training session in indoor competition skydivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos López-de-Celis
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat International de Catalunya, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- ACTIUM Functional Anatomy Group, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Fundació Institut, Universitari per a La Recerca a l’Atenció, Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Zegarra-Chávez
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat International de Catalunya, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- ACTIUM Functional Anatomy Group, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aïda Cadellans-Arróniz
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat International de Catalunya, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andoni Carrasco-Uribarren
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat International de Catalunya, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pedro Izquierdo-Nebreda
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat International de Catalunya, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Max Canet-Vintró
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat International de Catalunya, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- ACTIUM Functional Anatomy Group, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jacobo Rodríguez-Sanz
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat International de Catalunya, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- ACTIUM Functional Anatomy Group, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Albert Pérez-Bellmunt
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat International de Catalunya, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- ACTIUM Functional Anatomy Group, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
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Swain P, Mortreux M, Laws JM, Kyriacou H, De Martino E, Winnard A, Caplan N. Bone deconditioning during partial weight-bearing in rodents - A systematic review and meta-analysis. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2022; 34:87-103. [PMID: 35940692 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2022.07.003] [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: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Space agencies are preparing to send humans to the Moon (16% Earth's gravity) and Mars (38% Earth's gravity), however, there is limited evidence regarding the effects of hypogravity on the skeletal system. A novel rodent partial weight-bearing (PWB) model may provide insight into how human bone responds to hypogravity. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review investigating the effect of PWB on the structure and function of rodent bone. Five online databases were searched with the following inclusion criteria: population (rodents), intervention (PWB for ≥1-week), control (full weight-bearing), outcomes (bone structure/function), and study design (animal intervention). Of the 2,993 studies identified, eight were included. The main findings were that partial weight-bearing exposure for 21-28 days at 20%, 40%, and 70% of full loading causes: (1) loss of bone mineral density, (2) loss of trabecular bone volume, thickness, number, and increased separation, (3) loss of cortical area and thickness, and 4) reduced bone stiffness and strength. These findings predominately relate the tibia/femur of young/mature female mice, however, their deconditioning response appeared similar, but not identical, to male rats. A dose-response trend was frequently observed between the magnitude of deconditioning and PWB level. The deconditioning patterns in PWB resembled those in rodents and humans exposed to microgravity and microgravity analogs. The present findings suggest that countermeasures against bone deconditioning may be required for humans exploring the Lunar and Martian surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Swain
- Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom.
| | - Marie Mortreux
- Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jonathan M Laws
- Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Harry Kyriacou
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Enrico De Martino
- Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Winnard
- Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Nick Caplan
- Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
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11
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Goel R, Nakagome S, Paloski WH, Contreras-Vidal JL, Parikh PJ. Assessment of Biomechanical Predictors of Occurrence of Low-Amplitude N1 Potentials Evoked by Naturally Occurring Postural Instabilities. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2022; 30:476-485. [PMID: 35201989 PMCID: PMC11047164 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2022.3154707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Naturally occurring postural instabilities that occur while standing and walking elicit specific cortical responses in the fronto-central regions (N1 potentials) followed by corrective balance responses to prevent falling. However, no framework could simultaneously track different biomechanical parameters preceding N1s, predict N1s, and assess their predictive power. Here, we propose a framework and show its utility by examining cortical activity (through electroencephalography [EEG]), ground reaction forces, and head acceleration in the anterior-posterior (AP) direction. Ten healthy young adults carried out a balance task of standing on a support surface with or without sway referencing in the AP direction, amplifying, or dampening natural body sway. Using independent components from the fronto-central cortical region obtained from subject-specific head models, we first robustly validated a prior approach on identifying low-amplitude N1 potentials before early signs of balance corrections. Then, a machine learning algorithm was used to evaluate different biomechanical parameters obtained before N1 potentials, to predict the occurrence of N1s. When different biomechanical parameters were directly compared, the time to boundary (TTB) was found to be the best predictor of the occurrence of upcoming low-amplitude N1 potentials during a balance task. Based on these findings, we confirm that the spatio-temporal characteristics of the center of pressure (COP) might serve as an essential parameter that can facilitate the early detection of postural instability in a balance task. Extending our framework to identify such biomarkers in dynamic situations like walking might improve the implementation of corrective balance responses through brain-machine-interfaces to reduce falls in the elderly.
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12
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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: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [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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13
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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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14
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De Martino E, Salomoni SE, Hodges PW, Hides J, Lindsay K, Debuse D, Winnard A, Elliott J, Hoggarth M, Beard D, Cook JA, Ekman R, Hinterwaldner L, Scott J, Weber T, Caplan N. Intermittent short-arm centrifugation is a partially effective countermeasure against upright balance deterioration following 60-day head-down tilt bed rest. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2021; 131:689-701. [PMID: 34197228 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00180.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated whether artificial gravity (AG), induced by short-radius centrifugation, mitigated deterioration in standing balance and anticipatory postural adjustments (APAs) of trunk muscles following 60-day head-down tilt bed rest. Twenty-four participants were allocated to one of three groups: control group (n = 8); 30-min continuous AG daily (n = 8); and intermittent 6 × 5 min AG daily (n = 8). Before and immediately after bed rest, standing balance was assessed in four conditions: eyes open and closed on both stable and foam surfaces. Measures including sway path, root mean square, and peak sway velocity, sway area, sway frequency power, and sway density curve were extracted from the center of pressure displacement. APAs were assessed during rapid arm movements using intramuscular or surface electromyography electrodes of the rectus abdominis; obliquus externus and internus abdominis; transversus abdominis; erector spinae at L1, L2, L3, and L4 vertebral levels; and deep lumbar multifidus muscles. The relative latency between the EMG onset of the deltoid and each of the trunk muscles was calculated. All three groups had poorer balance performance in most of the parameters (all P < 0.05) and delayed APAs of the trunk muscles following bed rest (all P < 0.05). Sway path and sway velocity were deteriorated, and sway frequency power was less in those who received intermittent AG than in the control group (all P < 0.05), particularly in conditions with reduced proprioceptive feedback. These data highlight the potential of intermittent AG to mitigate deterioration of some aspects of postural control induced by gravitational unloading, but no protective effects on trunk muscle responses were observed.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study presents novel insights into the effect of artificial gravity (AG) on the deterioration of standing balance and anticipatory postural adjustments (APAs) of trunk muscles induced by 60-day strict head-down bed rest. The results indicated severe balance dysfunction and delayed APAs during rapid arm movement. AG partially mitigated the deterioration in standing balance and may thus be considered as a potential countermeasure for future planetary surface explorations. Optimization of AG protocols might enhance effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico De Martino
- Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Sauro E Salomoni
- National Health and Medical Research Council Centre for Clinical Research Excellence in Spinal Pain, Injury and Health, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Paul W Hodges
- National Health and Medical Research Council Centre for Clinical Research Excellence in Spinal Pain, Injury and Health, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Julie Hides
- School of Health Sciences and Social Work, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Kirsty Lindsay
- Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Dorothée Debuse
- Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Winnard
- Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - James Elliott
- Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois.,Northern Sydney Local Health District and The University of Sydney, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The Kolling Research Institute Sydney, Australia
| | - Mark Hoggarth
- Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois
| | - David Beard
- National Institute for Health Research Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology, and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan A Cook
- National Institute for Health Research Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology, and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology, and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Ekman
- European Astronaut Centre, Space Medicine Team (HRE-OM), European Space Agency, Cologne, Germany
| | - Luis Hinterwaldner
- European Astronaut Centre, Space Medicine Team (HRE-OM), European Space Agency, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jonathan Scott
- European Astronaut Centre, Space Medicine Team (HRE-OM), European Space Agency, Cologne, Germany.,KBR GmbH, Cologne, Germany
| | - Tobias Weber
- European Astronaut Centre, Space Medicine Team (HRE-OM), European Space Agency, Cologne, Germany.,KBR GmbH, Cologne, Germany
| | - Nick Caplan
- Aerospace Medicine and Rehabilitation Laboratory, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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15
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Macaulay TR, Peters BT, Wood SJ, Clément GR, Oddsson L, Bloomberg JJ. Developing Proprioceptive Countermeasures to Mitigate Postural and Locomotor Control Deficits After Long-Duration Spaceflight. Front Syst Neurosci 2021; 15:658985. [PMID: 33986648 PMCID: PMC8111171 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2021.658985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Astronauts experience post-flight disturbances in postural and locomotor control due to sensorimotor adaptations during spaceflight. These alterations may have adverse consequences if a rapid egress is required after landing. Although current exercise protocols can effectively mitigate cardiovascular and muscular deconditioning, the benefits to post-flight sensorimotor dysfunction are limited. Furthermore, some exercise capabilities like treadmill running are currently not feasible on exploration spaceflight vehicles. Thus, new in-flight operational countermeasures are needed to mitigate postural and locomotor control deficits after exploration missions. Data from spaceflight and from analog studies collectively suggest that body unloading decreases the utilization of proprioceptive input, and this adaptation strongly contributes to balance dysfunction after spaceflight. For example, on return to Earth, an astronaut's vestibular input may be compromised by adaptation to microgravity, but their proprioceptive input is compromised by body unloading. Since proprioceptive and tactile input are important for maintaining postural control, keeping these systems tuned to respond to upright balance challenges during flight may improve functional task performance after flight through dynamic reweighting of sensory input. Novel approaches are needed to compensate for the challenges of balance training in microgravity and must be tested in a body unloading environment such as head down bed rest. Here, we review insights from the literature and provide observations from our laboratory that could inform the development of an in-flight proprioceptive countermeasure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Scott J. Wood
- NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | | | - Lars Oddsson
- RxFunction Inc., Eden Prairie, MN, United States
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Recaniti School for Community Health Professions, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beersheba, Israel
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16
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Hupfeld KE, McGregor HR, Reuter-Lorenz PA, Seidler RD. Microgravity effects on the human brain and behavior: Dysfunction and adaptive plasticity. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 122:176-189. [PMID: 33454290 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Emerging plans for travel to Mars and other deep space destinations make it critical for us to understand how spaceflight affects the human brain and behavior. Research over the past decade has demonstrated two co-occurring patterns of spaceflight effects on the brain and behavior: dysfunction and adaptive plasticity. Evidence indicates the spaceflight environment induces adverse effects on the brain, including intracranial fluid shifts, gray matter changes, and white matter declines. Past work also suggests that the spaceflight environment induces adaptive neural effects such as sensory reweighting and neural compensation. Here, we introduce a new conceptual framework to synthesize spaceflight effects on the brain, Spaceflight Perturbation Adaptation Coupled with Dysfunction (SPACeD). We review the literature implicating neurobehavioral dysfunction and adaptation in response to spaceflight and microgravity analogues, and we consider pre-, during-, and post-flight factors that may interact with these processes. We draw several instructive parallels with the aging literature which also suggests co-occurring neurobehavioral dysfunction and adaptive processes. We close with recommendations for future spaceflight research, including: 1) increased efforts to distinguish between dysfunctional versus adaptive effects by testing brain-behavioral correlations, and 2) greater focus on tracking recovery time courses.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Hupfeld
- Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - H R McGregor
- Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - P A Reuter-Lorenz
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - R D Seidler
- Department of Applied Physiology and 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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17
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Lajoie K, Marigold DS, Valdés BA, Menon C. The potential of noisy galvanic vestibular stimulation for optimizing and assisting human performance. Neuropsychologia 2021; 152:107751. [PMID: 33434573 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2021.107751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Noisy galvanic vestibular stimulation (nGVS) is an emerging non-invasive brain stimulation technique. It involves applying alternating currents of different frequencies and amplitudes presented in a random, or noisy, manner through electrodes on the mastoid bones behind the ears. Because it directly activates vestibular hair cells and afferents and has an indirect effect on a variety of brain regions, it has the potential to impact many different functions. The objective of this review is twofold: (1) to review how nGVS affects motor, sensory, and cognitive performance in healthy adults; and (2) to discuss potential clinical applications of nGVS. First, we introduce the technique. We then describe the regions receiving and processing vestibular information. Next, we discuss the effects of nGVS on motor, sensory, and cognitive function in healthy adults. Subsequently, we outline its potential clinical applications. Finally, we highlight other electrical stimulation technologies and discuss why nGVS offers an alternative or complementary approach. Overall, nGVS appears promising for optimizing human performance and as an assistive technology, though further research is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Lajoie
- Menrva Research Group, Schools of Mechatronic Systems Engineering and Engineering Science, Simon Fraser University, Metro Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Daniel S Marigold
- Sensorimotor Neuroscience Lab, Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.
| | - Bulmaro A Valdés
- Menrva Research Group, Schools of Mechatronic Systems Engineering and Engineering Science, Simon Fraser University, Metro Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Carlo Menon
- Menrva Research Group, Schools of Mechatronic Systems Engineering and Engineering Science, Simon Fraser University, Metro Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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18
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Johnson C, Hallemans A, Verbecque E, Vestel CD, Herssens N, Vereeck L. Aging and the Relationship between Balance Performance, Vestibular Function and Somatosensory Thresholds. J Int Adv Otol 2020; 16:328-337. [PMID: 33136012 DOI: 10.5152/iao.2020.8287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was two-fold: (1) To evaluate the impact of the physiological aging process on somatosensory, vestibular, and balance functions, and (2) To examine the extent to which age and somatosensory and vestibular functions can predict balance performance. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this cross-sectional study, 141 asymptomatic subjects were assessed for touch pressure thresholds (TPT) with Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments (SWF), vibration thresholds (VT) with a neurothesiometer (NT) and a Rydel-Seiffer tuning fork 128Hz (RSTF). Horizontal vestibulo-ocular reflexes (HVOR gain and asymmetry) were assessed using the video Head Impulse Test (vHIT). A modified version of the Romberg test was used to assess standing balance and the Timed Up and Go test (TUG) and tandem gait (TG) to evaluate dynamic balance. RESULTS Significant age effects were found for TPT, VT, and balance but not for HVOR gain or asymmetry. Standing balance was explained for 47.2% by age, metatarsal 1 (MT1) (NT), and heel (SWF). The variance in TUG performance was explained for 47.0% by age, metatarsal 5 (MT5) (SWF), and medial malleolus (MM) (NT). Finally, the variance in TG performance was predicted for 43.1% by age, MT1 (NT), HVOR gain, and heel (SWF). CONCLUSION Among asymptomatic adult population, both somatosensation and balance performance deteriorate with aging. In contrast, HVOR remains rather constant with age, which is possibly explained by the process of vestibular adaptation. Furthermore, this study provides evidence that the VT, TPT, HVOR gain, and age partly predict balance performance. Still, further research is needed, especially with bigger samples in decades 8 and 9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Johnson
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Ann Hallemans
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Evi Verbecque
- Hasselt University, Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Charlotte De Vestel
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Nolan Herssens
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Luc Vereeck
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
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19
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Saveko A, Rukavishnikov I, Brykov V, Osetsky N, Ryazanskiy S, Grishin MA, Tomilovskaya E, Kozlovskaya I. Foot-ground reaction force during long-term space flight and after it: walking in active treadmill mode. Gait Posture 2020; 76:382-388. [PMID: 31923758 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2019.12.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Revised: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alina Saveko
- RF State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 123007, 76A Khoroshevskoe Shosse, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Ilya Rukavishnikov
- RF State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 123007, 76A Khoroshevskoe Shosse, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Vitaly Brykov
- RF State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 123007, 76A Khoroshevskoe Shosse, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Nikolay Osetsky
- RF State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 123007, 76A Khoroshevskoe Shosse, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Sergey Ryazanskiy
- RF State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 123007, 76A Khoroshevskoe Shosse, Moscow, Russia.
| | | | - Elena Tomilovskaya
- RF State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 123007, 76A Khoroshevskoe Shosse, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Inesa Kozlovskaya
- RF State Scientific Center - Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 123007, 76A Khoroshevskoe Shosse, Moscow, Russia.
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20
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Coulombe JC, Senwar B, Ferguson VL. Spaceflight-Induced Bone Tissue Changes that Affect Bone Quality and Increase Fracture Risk. Curr Osteoporos Rep 2020; 18:1-12. [PMID: 31897866 DOI: 10.1007/s11914-019-00540-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Bone mineral density and systemic factors are used to assess skeletal health in astronauts. Yet, even in a general population, these measures fail to accurately predict when any individual will fracture. This review considers how long-duration human spaceflight requires evaluation of additional bone structural and material quality measures that contribute to microgravity-induced skeletal fragility. RECENT FINDINGS In both humans and small animal models following spaceflight, bone mass is compromised via reduced bone formation and elevated resorption levels. Concurrently, bone structural quality (e.g., trabecular microarchitecture) is diminished and the quality of bone material is reduced via impaired tissue mineralization, maturation, and maintenance (e.g., mediated by osteocytes). Bone structural and material quality are both affected by microgravity and may, together, jeopardize astronaut operational readiness and lead to increased fracture risk upon return to gravitational loading. Future studies need to directly evaluate how bone quality combines with diminished bone mass to influence bone strength and toughness (e.g., resistance to fracture). Bone quality assessment promises to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer C Coulombe
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado, UCB 427, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, UCB 596, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
- BioServe Space Technologies, University of Colorado, UCB 429, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Bhavya Senwar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado, UCB 427, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, UCB 596, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
- BioServe Space Technologies, University of Colorado, UCB 429, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Virginia L Ferguson
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado, UCB 427, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA.
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, UCB 596, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA.
- BioServe Space Technologies, University of Colorado, UCB 429, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA.
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21
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Dixon JB, Clark TK. Sensorimotor impairment from a new analog of spaceflight-altered neurovestibular cues. J Neurophysiol 2020; 123:209-223. [PMID: 31747329 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00156.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to microgravity during spaceflight causes central reinterpretations of orientation sensory cues in astronauts, leading to sensorimotor impairment upon return to Earth. Currently there is no ground-based analog for the neurovestibular system relevant to spaceflight. We propose such an analog, which we term the "wheelchair head-immobilization paradigm" (WHIP). Subjects lie on their side on a bed fixed to a modified electric wheelchair, with their head restrained by a custom facemask. WHIP prevents any head tilt relative to gravity, which normally produces coupled stimulation to the otoliths and semicircular canals, but does not occur in microgravity. Decoupled stimulation is produced through translation and rotation on the wheelchair by the subject using a joystick. Following 12 h of WHIP exposure, subjects systematically felt illusory sensations of self-motion when making head tilts and had significant decrements in balance and locomotion function using tasks similar to those assessed in astronauts postspaceflight. These effects were not observed in our control groups without head restraint, suggesting the altered neurovestibular stimulation patterns experienced in WHIP lead to relevant central reinterpretations. We conclude by discussing the findings in light of postspaceflight sensorimotor impairment, WHIP's uses beyond a spaceflight analog, limitations, and future work.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We propose, implement, and demonstrate the feasibility of a new analog for spaceflight-altered neurovestibular stimulation. Following extended exposure to the analog, we found subjects reported illusory self-motion perception. Furthermore, they demonstrated decrements in balance and locomotion, using tasks similar to those used to assess astronaut sensorimotor performance postspaceflight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan B Dixon
- Smead Aerospace Engineering Sciences, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado
| | - Torin K Clark
- Smead Aerospace Engineering Sciences, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado
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