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Rezaei S, Seyedmirzaei H, Gharepapagh E, Mohagheghfard F, Hasankhani Z, Karbasi M, Delavari S, Aarabi MH. Effect of spaceflight experience on human brain structure, microstructure, and function: systematic review of neuroimaging studies. Brain Imaging Behav 2024:10.1007/s11682-024-00894-7. [PMID: 38777951 DOI: 10.1007/s11682-024-00894-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Spaceflight-induced brain changes have been commonly reported in astronauts. The role of microgravity in the alteration of the brain structure, microstructure, and function can be tested with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques. Here, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of Spaceflight studies exploring the potential role of brain alterations identified by MRI in astronauts. We conducted a search on PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus to find neuroimaging correlates of spaceflight experience using MRI. A total of 20 studies (structural MRI n = 8, diffusion-based MRI n = 2, functional MRI n = 1, structural MRI and diffusion-weighted MRI n = 6, structural MRI and functional MRI n = 3) met our inclusion criteria. Overall, the studies showed that regardless of the MRI techniques, mission duration significantly impacts the human brain, prompting the inclusion of various brain regions as features in the analyses. After spaceflight, notable alterations were also observed in the superior occipital gyrus and the precentral gyrus which show alterations in connectivity and activation during spaceflight. The results provided highlight the alterations in brain structure after spaceflight, the unique patterns of brain remodeling, the challenges in drawing unified conclusions, and the impact of microgravity on intracranial cerebrospinal fluid volume.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Rezaei
- Clinical Research Development Unit of Tabriz Valiasr Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Medical School, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Homa Seyedmirzaei
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Esmaeil Gharepapagh
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Medical School, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Fateme Mohagheghfard
- Department of para Medicine, Medical School, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zahra Hasankhani
- Department of para Medicine, Medical School, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahsa Karbasi
- Department of radiology, Medical School, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sahar Delavari
- Institute for the Developing Mind, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mohammad Hadi Aarabi
- Padova Neuroscience Center (PNC), University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
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Dell C. Letter to the Editor in response to: Planetary health and mental health nursing: What will you do. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2024. [PMID: 38773749 DOI: 10.1111/inm.13364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Ceylon Dell
- The Hub- Therapies Pathway, Purbeck, Stantonbury Health Centre, Milton Keynes, UK
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3
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Tomsia M, Cieśla J, Śmieszek J, Florek S, Macionga A, Michalczyk K, Stygar D. Long-term space missions' effects on the human organism: what we do know and what requires further research. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1284644. [PMID: 38415007 PMCID: PMC10896920 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1284644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Space has always fascinated people. Many years have passed since the first spaceflight, and in addition to the enormous technological progress, the level of understanding of human physiology in space is also increasing. The presented paper aims to summarize the recent research findings on the influence of the space environment (microgravity, pressure differences, cosmic radiation, etc.) on the human body systems during short-term and long-term space missions. The review also presents the biggest challenges and problems that must be solved in order to extend safely the time of human stay in space. In the era of increasing engineering capabilities, plans to colonize other planets, and the growing interest in commercial space flights, the most topical issues of modern medicine seems to be understanding the effects of long-term stay in space, and finding solutions to minimize the harmful effects of the space environment on the human body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Tomsia
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Toxicology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Julia Cieśla
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Joanna Śmieszek
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Szymon Florek
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Agata Macionga
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Michalczyk
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Dominika Stygar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
- SLU University Animal Hospital, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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Mehare A, Chakole S, Wandile B. Navigating the Unknown: A Comprehensive Review of Spaceflight-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome. Cureus 2024; 16:e53380. [PMID: 38435236 PMCID: PMC10907968 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53380] [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: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome (SANS) is a complex and multifaceted condition that affects astronauts during and after their missions in space. This comprehensive review delves into the various aspects of SANS, providing a thorough understanding of its definition, historical context, clinical presentation, epidemiology, diagnostic techniques, preventive measures, and management strategies. Various ocular and neurological symptoms, including visual impairment, optic disc edema, choroidal folds, retinal changes, and increased intracranial pressure, characterize SANS. While microgravity is a primary driver of SANS, other factors like radiation exposure, genetic predisposition, and environmental conditions within spacecraft contribute to its development. The duration of space missions is a significant factor, with longer missions associated with a higher incidence of SANS. This review explores the diagnostic criteria and variability in SANS presentation, shedding light on early detection and management challenges. The epidemiology section provides insights into the occurrence frequency, affected astronauts' demographics, and differences between long-term and short-term missions. Diagnostic tools, including ophthalmological assessments and imaging techniques, are crucial in monitoring astronaut health during missions. Preventive measures are vital in mitigating the impact of SANS. Current strategies, ongoing research in prevention methods, lifestyle and behavioral factors, and the potential role of artificial gravity are discussed in detail. Additionally, the review delves into interventions, potential pharmacological treatments, rehabilitation, and long-term management considerations for astronauts with SANS. The conclusion underscores the importance of continued research in SANS, addressing ongoing challenges, and highlighting unanswered questions. With the expansion of human space exploration, understanding and managing SANS is imperative to ensure the health and well-being of astronauts during long-duration missions. This review is a valuable resource for researchers, healthcare professionals, and space agencies striving to enhance our knowledge and address the complexities of SANS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhidnya Mehare
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Swarupa Chakole
- Community Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Bhushan Wandile
- Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
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Lin Y, Wu L, Ouyang H, Zhan J, Wang J, Liu W, Jia Y. Behavioral intentions and perceived stress under isolated environment. Brain Behav 2024; 14:e3347. [PMID: 38376043 PMCID: PMC10757889 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.3347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Isolation is a special environment that will affect the mental health and behavior of individuals. The current study was to explore the relationship between behavior intention (BI) and perceived stress in isolated environment during Shanghai Omicron pandemic. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted between April 8 and 14, 2022. Three self-reported questionnaires were used to evaluate quarantine duration, stress perception, and BI. A total of 1042 participants in Shanghai under quarantine at home were included by random sampling. Logistic regression and one-way variance analysis were used to determine the risk factors related to BI. RESULTS The finding implicated negative BI was more reported by the population of males, with lower educational background, with jobs, and youngers. A negative association existed between perceived stress and BI (B = -1.004, p = .003, OR = 0.367, 95% CI = .191-.703). The proportion of positive BI decreased with quarantined duration, whereas the negative BI seemed vibrate upward then downward. CONCLUSION There existed a significant effect of quarantined days on perceived stress with different BIs. High perceived stress was a risk factor of positive BI. This preliminary study has significance to understand the effect of compulsory measures on BI and for policies makers to take a psychosocial perspective to consider the effective pandemic intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Lin
- China Executive Leadership AcademyPudongShanghaiChina
| | - Lili Wu
- Laboratory for Post‐traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology and Mental HealthNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
- The Emotion & Cognition Laboratory, Faculty of Psychology and Mental HealthNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Hui Ouyang
- Laboratory for Post‐traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology and Mental HealthNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
- The Emotion & Cognition Laboratory, Faculty of Psychology and Mental HealthNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Jingye Zhan
- Laboratory for Post‐traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology and Mental HealthNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
- The Emotion & Cognition Laboratory, Faculty of Psychology and Mental HealthNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Jing Wang
- Laboratory for Post‐traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology and Mental HealthNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
- The Emotion & Cognition Laboratory, Faculty of Psychology and Mental HealthNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Weizhi Liu
- Laboratory for Post‐traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology and Mental HealthNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
- The Emotion & Cognition Laboratory, Faculty of Psychology and Mental HealthNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology of the Ministry of EducationNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yanpu Jia
- Laboratory for Post‐traumatic Stress Disorder, Faculty of Psychology and Mental HealthNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
- The Emotion & Cognition Laboratory, Faculty of Psychology and Mental HealthNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
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Sauer AK, Vigouroux M, Dougherty PM, Cata JP, Ingelmo PM. Pain Experience and Sensory Changes in Astronauts During and After Short-Lasting Commercial Spaceflight: A Proof-of-Concept Study. J Pain Res 2023; 16:4253-4266. [PMID: 38107368 PMCID: PMC10723599 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s440630] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Space travel has been associated with musculoskeletal pain, yet little is known about the nociceptive changes and pain experience during spaceflight. This preliminary study aims to investigate the pain experience and sensory alterations in astronauts following a 17-day mission to the International Space Station (ISS) on Axiom Space's AX-1 commercial space flight. Two participants were enrolled, and data were collected pre-flight, in-flight, post-flight, and three-month post-flight. Validated pain questionnaires assessed anxiety, catastrophizing, impact on physical and mental health, disability, and overall pain experience. Qualitative interviews were conducted post-landing and conditioned pain modulation (CPM) and quantitative sensory testing (QST) were performed. Both astronauts reported musculoskeletal pain during and after the flight, which was managed with anti-inflammatories and stretching techniques. Pain levels returned to baseline after three months. Pain questionnaires revealed heightened pain experiences in-flight and immediately post-flight, although their adequacy in assessing pain in space is uncertain. Qualitative interviews allowed astronauts to describe their pain experiences during the flight. Sensory changes included increased mechanical touch detection thresholds, temporal pain summation, heat pain thresholds, and differences in conditioned pain modulation post-flight. This preliminary study suggested that spaceflight may affect various aspects of sensory perception and regulation in astronauts, albeit in a variable manner. More data are needed to gain insight of on gain and loss of sensory functions during space missions. Further investigation into the multifactorial stressors affecting the somatosensory system during space travel could contribute to advancements in space and pain medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea K Sauer
- Department of Anesthesia, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Marie Vigouroux
- Department of Anesthesia, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Edwards Family Interdisciplinary Center for Complex Pain, Montreal Children’s Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Patrick M Dougherty
- Department of Pain Medicine, The University of Texas – MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Juan Pablo Cata
- Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas – MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Anesthesiology and Surgical Oncology Research Group, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Pablo M Ingelmo
- Department of Anesthesia, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Edwards Family Interdisciplinary Center for Complex Pain, Montreal Children’s Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Alan Edwards Centre for Research on Pain, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Research Institute, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Divya Harika P, Mehta KH, Pulluri SS, Rana P, Rajani H, Aiman A. Oral Health in Zero Gravity: A Comprehensive Review of Orofacial Effects and Countermeasures in Spaceflights. Cureus 2023; 15:e49035. [PMID: 38116347 PMCID: PMC10728690 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49035] [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] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Space is a complex and challenging setting encompassing the region beyond Earth's atmosphere where astronauts and spacecraft operate. The unique conditions of spaceflights, particularly microgravity and radiation, pose significant challenges to astronaut health, including the orofacial region. It has effects on saliva production, microbial composition, and oral hygiene practices, which influence oral health status, such as increased risk of dental caries, gum diseases, oral discomfort, temporomandibular joint dysfunctions, sialoliths, pain and dysesthesia in the teeth and oral mucosa, masticatory muscle atrophy, and oral cancer which can be detrimental during prolonged missions. Hence, a comprehensive approach to dental care in space is imperative to ensure astronauts' well-being and overall health as we strive to extend our presence beyond Earth. This literature review paper sheds light on the intricate effects of space on the orofacial region and delves into the unique challenges astronauts face in upholding optimal oral health while in space. It explores the current state of dentistry in space and discusses advancements and strategies that aim to maintain optimal oral health for astronauts during extended space missions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedada Divya Harika
- Oral Medicine and Radiology, Panineeya Institute of Dental Sciences & Research Centre, Hyderabad, IND
| | - Karan Hiral Mehta
- Oral Medicine and Radiology, Government Dental College Kadapa, Kadapa, IND
| | | | - Priyanka Rana
- Oral Medicine and Radiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, IND
| | - Hanmandla Rajani
- Oral Medicine and Radiology, Panineeya Institute of Dental Sciences & Research Centre, Hyderabad, IND
| | - Ayesha Aiman
- Oral Medicine and Radiology, Panineeya Institute of Dental Sciences & Research Centre, Hyderabad, IND
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8
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Tong F, Wu C, Wang L, Jing X, Wu S, Sun J, Hu Y, Li J, Wang Y, Li Y. Can XunTian Tai Chi intervention improve the level of emotional regulation of crew members in the Controlled Ecological Life Support System? SPORTS MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCE 2023; 5:245-250. [PMID: 37753425 PMCID: PMC10518796 DOI: 10.1016/j.smhs.2023.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
To explore the appropriate exercise methods and means for astronauts in confined and small isolation conditions, a set of XunTian Tai Chi suitable for the spaceflight workforce was created, with the aim of discovering the practical effects of XunTian Tai Chi and providing a scientific basis for the subsequent development of new astronaut health maintenance techniques with Chinese characteristics. Using the Controlled Ecological Life Support System (CELSS) as a research platform, we observed the changes in a crew member's emotion regulation-related indexes during 180 days of working and living in a confined isolation chamber through periodic interventions of the XunTian Tai Chi and conducted statistical analyses. During the 180-day cabin mission, expression suppression, cognitive reappraisal, attention index, and relaxation index were all lower than those before entering the cabin, suggesting that the crew member's emotion regulation ability decreased during the in-cabin mission. A single Tai Chi exercise could cause favorable changes in the indicators, positively affecting the crew member's emotional regulation. The attention and relaxation indices of the occupants were improved significantly by both single and periodic Tai Chi exercises. After the Tai Chi exercise cycle, the results of each index showed a certain degree of effect. The 180-day ground-based simulation of Tai Chi in the confinement of a space capsule positively affects the occupant's emotional regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feizhou Tong
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Chaoming Wu
- College of Physical Education and Greater Health, Chongqing Metropolitan College of Science and Technology, Chongqing, 402167, China
| | - Lili Wang
- Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Xiaolu Jing
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Shiyun Wu
- College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518061, China
| | - Junzhi Sun
- Institute of Sports Medicine and Health, Chengdu Sport University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Yong Hu
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Jie Li
- Center for Cognition and Brain Disorders, The Affiliated Hospital, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311121, China
| | - Yanlei Wang
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, 100094, China
| | - Yinghui Li
- China Astronaut Research and Training Center, Beijing, 100094, China
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Dugan C, Parlatescu I, Popescu BO, Pop CS, Marin M, Dinculescu A, Nistorescu AI, Vizitiu C, Varlas VN. Applications for oral research in microgravity - lessons learned from burning mouth syndrome and ageing studies. J Med Life 2023; 16:381-386. [PMID: 37168310 PMCID: PMC10165527 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2022-0285] [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: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The negative consequences of microgravity for the human body are central aspects of space travel that raise health problems. Altered functions of the same systems and treatment options are common points of spaceflight physiology, age-related diseases, and oral medicine. This work emphasizes the convergence of knowledge between pathophysiological changes brought on by aging, physiological reactions to microgravity exposure, and non-pharmacological and non-invasive treatment methods that can be used in spaceflight. Sarcopenia, peripheral nerves alterations, neuromotor plaque in the masticatory muscles, lingual, labial, and buccal weakness, nociplastic pain in oral mucosal diseases, and microgravity, as well as soft tissue changes and pathologies related to chewing and swallowing, corticomotor neuroplasticity of tongue, and swallowing biomechanics, are of particular interest to us. Neurologic disease and other pathologies such as recovery from post-stroke dysphagia, nociplastic pain in glossodynia, sleep bruxism, and obstructive sleep apnea have been studied and, in some cases, successfully treated with non-invasive direct and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) methods in recent decades. An interdisciplinary team from medical specialties, engineering, and biophysics propose an exploratory study based on the parallelism of ageing and space physiology, along with experiment scenarios considering TMS and non-invasive direct methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cosmin Dugan
- Internal Medicine Department, Bucharest University Emergency Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
- Faculty of General Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ioanina Parlatescu
- Faculty of Dentistry, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Corresponding Author: Ioanina Parlatescu, Faculty of Dentistry, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania. E-mail:
| | - Bogdan Ovidiu Popescu
- Faculty of General Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Corina Silvia Pop
- Internal Medicine Department, Bucharest University Emergency Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
- Faculty of General Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Marin
- Space Applications for Health and Safety Laboratory, Institute of Space Science, Magurele, Romania
| | - Adrian Dinculescu
- Space Applications for Health and Safety Laboratory, Institute of Space Science, Magurele, Romania
| | - Alexandru Ion Nistorescu
- Space Applications for Health and Safety Laboratory, Institute of Space Science, Magurele, Romania
| | - Cristian Vizitiu
- Space Applications for Health and Safety Laboratory, Institute of Space Science, Magurele, Romania
- Department of Automatics and Information Technology, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Transilvania University of Brasov, Brasov, Romania
| | - Valentin Nicolae Varlas
- Faculty of Dentistry, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Clinical Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology Filantropia, Bucharest, Romania
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10
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Brain potential responses involved in decision-making in weightlessness. Sci Rep 2022; 12:12992. [PMID: 35906468 PMCID: PMC9338282 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17234-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The brain is essential to human adaptation to any environment including space. We examined astronauts’ brain function through their electrical EEG brain potential responses related to their decision of executing a docking task in the same virtual scenario in Weightlessness and on Earth before and after the space stay of 6 months duration. Astronauts exhibited a P300 component in which amplitude decreased during, and recovered after, their microgravity stay. This effect is discussed as a post-value-based decision-making closing mechanism; The P300 amplitude decrease in weightlessness is suggested as an emotional stimuli valence reweighting during which orbitofrontal BA10 would play a major role. Additionally, when differentiating the bad and the good docks on Earth and in Weightlessness and keeping in mind that astronauts were instantaneously informed through a visual cue of their good or bad performance, it was observed that the good dockings resulted in earlier voltage redistribution over the scalp (in the 150–250 ms period after the docking) than the bad dockings (in the 250–400 ms) in Weightlessness. These results suggest that in Weightlessness the knowledge of positive or negative valence events is processed differently than on Earth.
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