NEUROPHYSIOLOGICAL STATE OF HUMANS IN LONG-DURATION ISOLATION

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Space Medicine
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Long-duration space missions require understanding crew psychological and physiological adaptation.
• Isolation and confinement can significantly impact cognitive and neural functions.
• Previous research suggests varying levels of adaptability among individuals in extreme environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the neurofunctional state of crew members during a 520-day isolation and confinement mission.
• To assess the brain's electrical (EEG) and energy (PPL) activity dynamics.
• To predict and evaluate the crew's adaptability and potential for adaptation reserve depletion.

Main Methods:

• Synchronous registration of electroencephalography (EEG) and permanent potential level (PPL) of the brain.
• Baseline investigations to predict crew adaptability.
• Monitoring neurofunctional correlates throughout the 520-day isolation period.

Main Results:

• Baseline assessments predicted high adaptability and low risk of adaptation reserve depletion for all crew members.
• Neurofunctional activity generally correlated with experienced environmental factors.
• By week 54, physiological adaptation was evident through decreased PPL and stable alpha-power, without interhemispheric asymmetry.
• No distinct stress reactions were observed, confirming the low probability of adaptation reserve depletion.

Conclusions:

• Crew members demonstrated significant physiological adaptation to prolonged isolation and confinement.
• The study supports the prediction of robust adaptability in participants for long-duration space exploration.
• Neurofunctional monitoring provides valuable insights into human resilience in extreme environments.