Well-being Of Astronauts Research Articles

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Space Medicine

Abstract Space is considered to be the most inhospitable environment known to man. A lack of oxygen, microgravity, extremes of temperature, ionising radiation and the inability to grow food being only a few of the challenges that space exploration may pose to those brave enough to travel there.(1) Consequently, astronauts encountered numerous health risks primarily due to the effects of microgravity and ionising radiation as well as the psychological impacts of isolation and confinement.(2,3) Because of this, it is imperative that the health and wellbeing of astronauts be monitored closely to ensure their safety. This is currently achieved via telemedicine, in which medical personnel on earth communicate with those in space. However, this is not without limitations such as the inability to physically examine those in space and communication delays that may be encountered due to the vast transmission distances. In the case that communications become compromised or infeasible, astronauts may be left vulnerable to a wide range of potential health complications. Therefore, a redundancy solution to monitor astronaut health alongside direct astronaut-to-earth communication is required. This could be achieved via the use of artificial intelligence (AI). AI allows for the health of astronauts to be automatically monitored and provides an effective solution to some of the biological and psychological issues that astronauts encounter. This essay explores the role of AI in a selection of health issues encountered by astronauts.

Genomic, functional, and metabolic enhancements in multidrug-resistant Enterobacter bugandensis facilitating its persistence and succession in the International Space Station

BackgroundThe International Space Station (ISS) stands as a testament to human achievement in space exploration. Despite its highly controlled environment, characterised by microgravity, increased CO2\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$_{2}$$\\end{document} levels, and elevated solar radiation, microorganisms occupy a unique niche. These microbial inhabitants play a significant role in influencing the health and well-being of astronauts on board. One microorganism of particular interest in our study is Enterobacter bugandensis, primarily found in clinical specimens including the human gastrointestinal tract, and also reported to possess pathogenic traits, leading to a plethora of infections.ResultsDistinct from their Earth counterparts, ISS E. bugandensis strains have exhibited resistance mechanisms that categorise them within the ESKAPE pathogen group, a collection of pathogens recognised for their formidable resistance to antimicrobial treatments. During the 2-year Microbial Tracking 1 mission, 13 strains of multidrug-resistant E. bugandensis were isolated from various locations within the ISS. We have carried out a comprehensive study to understand the genomic intricacies of ISS-derived E. bugandensis in comparison to terrestrial strains, with a keen focus on those associated with clinical infections. We unravel the evolutionary trajectories of pivotal genes, especially those contributing to functional adaptations and potential antimicrobial resistance. A hypothesis central to our study was that the singular nature of the stresses of the space environment, distinct from any on Earth, could be driving these genomic adaptations. Extending our investigation, we meticulously mapped the prevalence and distribution of E. bugandensis across the ISS over time. This temporal analysis provided insights into the persistence, succession, and potential patterns of colonisation of E. bugandensis in space. Furthermore, by leveraging advanced analytical techniques, including metabolic modelling, we delved into the coexisting microbial communities alongside E. bugandensis in the ISS across multiple missions and spatial locations. This exploration revealed intricate microbial interactions, offering a window into the microbial ecosystem dynamics within the ISS.ConclusionsOur comprehensive analysis illuminated not only the ways these interactions sculpt microbial diversity but also the factors that might contribute to the potential dominance and succession of E. bugandensis within the ISS environment. The implications of these findings are twofold. Firstly, they shed light on microbial behaviour, adaptation, and evolution in extreme, isolated environments. Secondly, they underscore the need for robust preventive measures, ensuring the health and safety of astronauts by mitigating risks associated with potential pathogenic threats.DtSaop7bYTNkSCdR7trwLeVideo

Understanding the complexities of space anaemia in extended space missions: revelations from microgravitational odyssey.

Space travel exposes astronauts to several environmental challenges, including microgravity and radiation exposure. To overcome these stressors, the body undergoes various adaptations such as cardiovascular deconditioning, fluid shifts, metabolic changes, and alterations in the state of the bone marrow. Another area of concern is the potential impact of these adaptations on erythrocyte and haemoglobin concentrations, which can lead to what is commonly referred to as space anaemia or microgravity-induced anaemia. It is known that anaemia may result in impaired physical and cognitive performance, making early detection and management crucial for the health and wellbeing of astronauts during extended space missions. However, the effects and mechanisms of space anaemia are not fully understood, and research is underway to determine the extent to which it poses a challenge to astronauts. Further research is needed to clarify the long-term effects of microgravity on the circulatory system and to investigate possible solutions to address spaceflight-induced anaemia. This article reviews the potential link between spaceflight and anaemia, based on existing evidence from simulated studies (e.g., microgravity and radiation studies) and findings from spaceflight studies (e.g., International Space Station and space shuttle missions).

Carie - The Space Pet

Robotics is the fusion of science, engineering, and technology that creates robots, or machines, that mimic or take the place of human beings in performing tasks. Multiple sorts of robotics are possible. It is also possible to use robotics for space research. Physically and mentally challenging situations might arise for humans during space travel. The use of technology can help us to some extent get past the mental challenges as the physical challenges are unavoidable. We employ robotics in order to get over mental obstacles. To reach the objective of promoting astronaut wellness in space, we combine robotics with a number of other technologies. This project is aimed at developing an autonomous robot companion for astronauts during space missions. The objective is to provide real time monitoring, forecasting capability and navigation assistance in order to ensure the safety, efficiency and well-being of astronauts. The robot companion is capable of monitoring astronaut's health conditions and detecting potential problems at an early stage by integrating high resolution sensors and sophisticated algorithms. The robot aims to improve the overall experience and performance of astronauts in space by applying predictive analytical tools and advanced navigation systems.

Space motion sickness: A common neurovestibular dysfunction in microgravity.

This article presents a review of the current findings related to neurovestibular physiology, aetiology, and proposed theories on space motion sickness (SMS) during acute and sustained exposure to microgravity. The review discusses the available treatment options including medication and nonpharmacological countermeasure methods that help to prevent the development of SMS in weightlessness. Ground-based simulations using virtual reality, flight simulations, and Barany's chairs can be applied to study SMS and demonstrate its signs and symptoms to space crew members. Space motion sickness has been observed in approximately 70% of astronauts within the first 72 h in microgravity, having in general an instantaneous onset of signs and symptoms. Stomach discomfort, nausea, vomiting, pallor, cold sweating, salivation, tachypnoea, belching, fatigue, drowsiness, and stress hormone release have been documented. This can have detrimental effects on the well-being of astronauts in the initial phase of a space mission. Mental and physical performance may be affected, jeopardizing operational procedures and mission safety.

Human performance in space: Advancing astronautics research in China

As we pursue bolder initiatives in space, and as China moves towards launching a permanently manned space station, gaining a clearer understanding of the impact of long-term space travel becomes essential to maintain the well-being of astronauts. Serious consideration has been given to human travel beyond low Earth orbit—where the International Space Station resides—and beyond the moon, possibly to Mars or the moons of Jupiter. Examples of groundbreaking space research currently underway in China are collected in this booklet, providing the reader with a taste of what future space exploration might look like. As Chinese scientists learn about the effects on the body and mind, they are applying their knowledge to modify equipment, improve astronaut training, and fine-tune the selection process for astronauts. Other scientists and engineers around the world will benefit, and can apply the new information to space programs in their own countries. This booklet brought to you by the Science /AAAS Custom Publishing Office. DOI: 10.1126/science.opms.sb0002

Human performance in space: Advancing astronautics research in China

As we pursue bolder initiatives in space, and as China moves towards launching a permanently manned space station, gaining a clearer understanding of the impact of long-term space travel becomes essential to maintain the well-being of astronauts. Serious consideration has been given to human travel beyond low Earth orbit—where the International Space Station resides—and beyond the moon, possibly to Mars or the moons of Jupiter. Examples of groundbreaking space research currently underway in China are collected in this booklet, providing the reader with a taste of what future space exploration might look like. As Chinese scientists learn about the effects on the body and mind, they are applying their knowledge to modify equipment, improve astronaut training, and fine-tune the selection process for astronauts. Other scientists and engineers around the world will benefit, and can apply the new information to space programs in their own countries. This booklet brought to you by the Science /AAAS Custom Publishing Office. DOI: 10.1126/science.opms.sb0002

The hazards of space travel.

Exploration is an important survival strategy in evolution. The migration of expansive species depends on exploring their immediate or distant surroundings for new food sources or safe habitats; it can also come as a result of population pressures or environmental changes. The human species has added another reason for exploration, namely curiosity. This intellectual urge to explore the unknown led the great European explorers to the Americas, Australia and Antarctica between the fifteenth and seventeenth centuries. Inquisitiveness about nature is also the driving force behind humans exploring the polar caps, climbing mountain peaks and diving into the abysses of the oceans. Now, the ultimate frontier to explore in the twenty‐first century is space. Astronomical observations and satellites have already yielded immense knowledge about our solar system and the universe beyond. But these technologies can provide only a limited picture of what is out there; eventually humans themselves will have to travel to other planets to investigate them in more intimate detail. Tremendous advances in rocket and spaceship technologies during the past 50 years, driven mainly by national security considerations, the need for better communication or a desire to observe environmental changes and human activity on the ground, have made it possible to send humans into near‐Earth orbit and to the Moon. Conceivably, these advances will eventually make it possible to transport astronauts to other planets, and Mars in particular (Fig. 1). Figure 1. Late spring on Mars. Source: NASA. But there are significant differences between exploring Earth and exploring space. First and foremost, space is an unforgiving environment that does not tolerate human errors or technical failure. For humans leaving Earth's orbit for extended periods, there are even more dangers. One is the near absence of gravity in space; the presence of high‐energy, ionizing cosmic ray (HZE) nuclei is another. Because …

Psychological countermeasures for extended manned spaceflights

The authors examine psychological issues and countermeasures in extended space flight. Individual-oriented pre-flight countermeasures include basic psychological selection and training of astronaut candidates. Crew-oriented pre-flight countermeasures include crew composition based on psychological compatibility and psychological mission preparation. Psychological inflight support measures include those that address the emotional state and well-being of astronauts, performance efficiency, and prevention of task overload. Suggestions for an integrated approach to psychological countermeasures for extended flights are presented. Case reports examine psychological selection and training of German astronauts in preparation for the STS-55 mission.

Monitoring and Recording of Physiological Data of the Manned Space Flight Program

This paper propounds the philosophy behind the design of a sensing and data collection system for the handling of low-potential physiological signals used in the determination of astronaut well-being. The experience gained from Project Mercury manned flights and numerous studies performed by the NASA, industry, and university groups has contributed to the establishment of the design criteria. The actual hardware for support of the Gemini manned missions has been designed, built, and flight qualified.