
Neuroscience Research in Short-Duration Human Spaceflight
- 1st Edition - September 25, 2024
- Editor: Bader Shirah
- Language: English
- Paperback ISBN:9 7 8 - 0 - 4 4 3 - 3 3 9 1 8 - 9
- eBook ISBN:9 7 8 - 0 - 4 4 3 - 3 3 9 1 9 - 6
Neuroscience Research in Short-duration Human Spaceflight encapsulates a groundbreaking neuroscience portfolio conducted during the Axiom Mission 2 in May 2023, offering an examin… Read more

Purchase options

Institutional subscription on ScienceDirect
Request a sales quoteA significant aspect of the suite of studies is the validation of two novel devices providing unprecedented information about the pupillary light reflex and neuroimaging in microgravity: automated pupillometry and functional near-infrared spectroscopy. The portfolio extends to explore spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome, offering valuable contributions to the evolving field of space medicine. Furthermore, the research delves into the utilization of electroencephalography to monitor brain activity, acknowledging its potential in assessing cognitive health, stress levels, and mental workload in real time. Despite promising prospects, challenges in electroencephalography system adaptability within the International Space Station environment are highlighted, emphasizing the need for specialized design considerations. In addition, analysis is extended into the molecular biomarkers through minimally invasive blood monitoring. This book represents a pivotal advancement in space neuroscience, laying the foundation for safer space travel and fostering the development of monitoring tools crucial to observing adverse changes and potentially developing countermeasures that can aid in the establishment of a permanent human presence beyond Earth.
- Offers in-depth coverage of the effects of spaceflight on human physiology and the brain
- Includes novel data from astronauts on the Axiom Mission 2
- Includes a range of monitoring tools to assess neurological activity during and after spaceflight
- Cover image
- Title page
- Table of Contents
- Copyright
- List of contributors
- About the editor
- Preface
- Acknowledgments
- Chapter 1. Unlocking the neurological mysteries of space from Saudi Arabia’s inaugural human spaceflight mission (Axiom Mission 2): pioneering insights, novel tools, and pathways to safer future space exploration
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Historic background of space exploration and medicine in Saudi Arabia
- The Saudi Space Agency Human Space Flight 1 (SSA-HSF1)
- The significance of short-duration human spaceflight
- The emphasis on space neuroscience
- Chapter summary and objectives
- Discussion
- Key features of the presented research
- Significance of the portfolio studies
- Neurophysiology in space
- Intracranial pressure in space
- Saudi Arabia and Artemis
- Translational impact to humans on Earth
- Conclusion
- Funding
- Conflict of interest
- References
- Chapter 2. Automated pupillometry in short-duration human spaceflight
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Current evidence on automated pupillometry
- Altered fluid dynamics and cephalad shift in spaceflight
- Previous studies on automated pupillometry in simulated microgravity
- Chapter summary and objectives
- Methods
- Device integration
- Astronauts’ training
- Data collection
- Primary outcomes
- Data analysis
- Institutional Review Board and consent
- Results
- Preflight data analysis
- In-flight data analysis
- Postflight data analysis
- Subgroup age-based analysis
- Subgroup sex-based analysis
- Discussion
- ICP in SANS
- ICP Correlation with Pupillometry Data
- Age difference in pupillometry measurements
- Gender difference in pupillometry measurements
- Right eye vs. left eye difference in pupillometry measurements
- Analysis of NPi in microgravity
- Automated pupillometry as a measure of autonomic health in astronauts
- Automated pupillometry as a measure of stress in astronauts
- The need for pupillometry research in longer duration spaceflight
- Limitations of the study
- Translational impact to humans on Earth
- Future perspectives
- Conclusion
- Funding
- Conflict of interest
- References
- Chapter 3. Optic nerve sheath ultrasound in short-duration human spaceflight
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Methods
- Results
- Discussion
- Conclusion
- Funding
- Conflict of interest
- Acknowledgment
- References
- Chapter 4. Wireless portable electroencephalography in short-duration human spaceflight
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Methods
- Results
- Discussion
- Conclusion
- Acknowledgment
- Funding
- Conflict of interest
- References
- Chapter 5. Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy as a noninvasive neuroimaging technique to measure cerebral perfusion in microgravity
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Methods
- Results
- Discussion
- Conclusion
- Funding
- Conflict of interest
- References
- Chapter 6. Surrogate assessment of brain health using longitudinal measures of blood-based biomarkers in short-duration human spaceflight
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Methods
- Results
- Discussion
- Conclusion
- Funding
- Conflict of interest
- References
- Chapter 7. Telomere length dynamics associated with short-duration human spaceflight
- Abstract
- Introduction
- Methods
- Results
- Discussion
- Conclusion
- Funding
- Conflict of interest
- References
- Chapter 8. Evaluation of astronaut experience, future directions, and recommendations for neuroscience research methods in human spaceflight
- Abstract
- Introduction
- The insights of astronauts
- Discussion
- Conclusion
- Funding
- Conflict of interest
- References
- Index
- No. of pages: 250
- Language: English
- Edition: 1
- Published: September 25, 2024
- Imprint: Academic Press
- Paperback ISBN: 9780443339189
- eBook ISBN: 9780443339196
BS
Bader Shirah
Dr. Bader Shirah, a distinguished physician and researcher from Saudi Arabia, earned his medical degree from the College of Medicine at King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences in Jeddah. With a commitment to advancing medical knowledge and skills, he pursued further training and acquired medical practice licenses in both Saudi Arabia (Saudi Commission for Health Specialties) and Canada (Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada).
Dr. Shirah's pioneering efforts in the field of space medicine have significantly contributed to shaping the landscape of scientific exploration in Saudi Arabia. Initially engaged in the strategic planning of the Saudi Space Commission since its establishment on December 27, 2018, he went on to represent the Kingdom in various international scientific activities. Marking several pivotal milestones, Dr. Shirah established the foundation for the futuristic field of space medicine in Saudi Arabia. He published the first set of papers from the country, authored the inaugural book on space medicine in Arabic, and conducted courses and workshops to educate Saudi students and scientists on the emerging field.
A trailblazer in his own right, Dr. Shirah founded Nebula Research & Development Company, the first Saudi company dedicated to space medicine research and development. Recognized for his outstanding contributions to innovation and leadership, he was honored by Forbes Middle East by being named to their prestigious 30 Under 30 list. This accolade celebrates young visionaries who are pioneering the use of advanced technologies to develop revolutionary inventions and medical breakthroughs. The Forbes Middle East 30 Under 30 list not only highlights these technological advancements but also acknowledges the remarkable achievements of inspirational young leaders, dreamers, and creatives. These individuals are at the forefront of driving significant change in the MENA region, continuously expanding their influence into new and unexplored areas, shaping the future with their visionary ideas and relentless dedication. Dr. Shirah’s recent endeavors reached new heights with the execution of six in-space neuroscience research experiments on the Saudi Space Agency Human Space Flight 1 (SSA-HSF1) mission, aiming to deepen the understanding of the effects of microgravity and radiation on the human brain and body.
Dr. Shirah's prolific research output includes over 170 outstanding papers in top international peer-reviewed journals, widely cited for their impact. His contributions have garnered numerous accolades, including The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Prize for Honoring the Inventors and the Talented, a Memorial Plaque from Saudi Arabia's Minister of National Guard, and the First Best Researcher in Dr. Sami Alsogair's Award for Scientific Research. Notably, he made history as the first Saudi scientist selected as an Emerging Space Leader by the International Astronautical Federation, further solidifying his role as a pioneering force in the field of space medicine research. Furthermore, he was awarded two international scholarships by reputable international organizations; the Space Medicine Association and the American Academy of Neurology.
Figure: Dr. Bader Shirah in a panel during at the International Astronautical Congress 2023.
Figure: Dr. Bader Shirah wearing the Axiom Mission 2 garments during a space medicine course in Saudi Arabia.