CONTENTS
Reviews
Levinskikh M.A. Plants as model objects of research in space biology. Part II. Short-cycling plant (Wiconsin fast plant Brassica rapa L.)
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The series of surveys presents the results of ontogenetic and physiological investigations of Arabidopsis and rapid cycling Brassica rapa, wheat, peas and mizuna lettuce crops cultivated in a variety of plant growth chambers aboard space vehicles.
This article concerns, specifically, the advances of Russian and international investigators in understanding of and how microgravity and other spaceflight factors influence growth, development and metabolism in Brassica rapa L.
Space experiments led to the conclusion that microgravity does not affect Ârassica rapa growth and development. Moreover, microgravity does not impede formation of viable seeds and growth of next plant generations. Experiments with Ârassica rapa made an important input in space plant biology as they resulted in quantitative evaluation of the consequences of ethylene presence in the cabin air for plant growth and development, determination of changes in the composition of seed storage elements and secondary metabolites.
Key words: space plant biology, space plants chambers, rapid cycling Brassica rapa L., ontogenesis.
Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow
Aviakosmicheskaya i Ekologicheskaya Meditsina (Russia). 2026. V. 60. ¹ 3. P. 5-12.
DOI: 10.21687/0233-528X-2026-60-3-5-12
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Experimental and Theoretical Investigations
Zhovnerchuk E.N., Vinokhodova A.G., Eskov K.N., Kuznetsova P.G., Yusupova A.K., Savinkina A.O. Interpersonal interaction and cohesion of the ISS crews: results of the interactions-2 space experiment
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Within the framework of the Russian space experiment «Interactions», original methods for studying group interaction were developed: the computerized method «Personal Self-perception and attitudes» (PSPA) to analyze the emotional attitude of subjects to the social environment and the method «Homeostat»to evaluate the effectiveness of interaction between cosmonauts when performing joint operator’ activities.
The article presents the results obtained during the cross-flights of the Soyuz and Crew Dragon spacecraft with the participation of 14 Russian crew members during the expeditions ISS 68–3. The main objectives of the experiment are as follows: to determine individual and group values and the degree of group identification (cohesion); to study changes in group cohesion and the effectiveness of interaction within space crews during space flight.
The results made it possible to identify the most significant categories of values common to all subjects. The priority of these values is an important requirement for forming a cohesive team. The increase in the importance of the values of Benevolence and Hedonism for the cosmonauts who flew on Crew Dragon, revealed after the completion of the flight, was most likely due to a younger age and lack of space flight experience. For the first time, a study of the group interaction effectiveness methodology conducted on board the ISS using the Homeostat, made it possible to compare the dynamics of the solving joint tasks effectiveness with the level of cohesion assessed using the PSPA methodology.
Keywords: spaceflight, interaction, values, attitudes, cohesion, effectiveness.
Aviakosmicheskaya i Ekologicheskaya Meditsina (Russia). 2026. V. 60. ¹ 3. P. 13-23.
DOI: 10.21687/0233-528X-2026-60-3-13-23
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Schastlivtseva D.V., Ivanov A.V., Kotrovskaya T.I., Bubeev Yu.A. Neurophysiological and neurosemantic markers of adaptation of the SIRIUS-19 crew members to the experimental conditions
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To identify the complex mechanisms of psychophysiological adaptation of a multinational crew (three women and three men) during prolonged isolation in a containment facility during the 120-day SIRIUS-19 experiment, a comprehensive analysis of the dynamics of neurophysiological (using electroencephalography) and neurosemantic (using neurosemantic psychodiagnostics) indicators was conducted.
The obtained data were viewed as a manifestation of complex psychophysiological adaptation to extreme conditions of activity and habitat. Constant tension caused by the combined effects of environmental factors, emotional experiences of separation from the familiar social context, lack of privacy, and the intercultural nature of intra-group interactions among the international crew members was directly reflected in the dynamics of electroencephalographic indicators. Periods of relative stabilization of the functional state of the brain, observed primarily in the second half of isolation, indicated the development of new adaptive strategies and psychological defenses.
Key words: negative factors, artificial environment, brain, electroencephalogram, neurosemantic psychodiagnostics, unconscious reactions, psychophysiological adaptation.
Aviakosmicheskaya i Ekologicheskaya Meditsina (Russia). 2026. V. 60. ¹ 3. P. 24-32.
DOI: 10.21687/0233-528X-2026-60-3-24-32
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Ganicheva À.À., Fomina E.V. Efficiency of cognitive tasks after physical loading in the experiment with 12-month isolation SIRIUS-23
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Association between physical and cognitive performance in the condition of monotony is still not fully understood. Purpose of this work is to describe bioelectrical activity of the brain cortex and efficiency of cognitive tasks after physical loading in participants in ground-based model 12-month experiment SIRIUS-23.
SIRIUS-23 involved 6 subjects (4 females and 2 men). Sessions were performed at the beginning of each mesocycle of physical locomotor exercises approximately once a month. The test consisted of the gradual loading up to 15 km/h on the active treadmill and a battery of cognitive tests. EEG was registered before and after exercise in each second session, and after completion of the cognitive test. The cognitive battery included the Stroop test, number memory test, moving target test, Gorbov-Schulte red-black tables, and Torrance test.
Results of the cognitive tests showed significant individual differences (p < 0.05). Physically strong participants completed these cognitive tests with better results. EEG analysis points to individual differences of the rhythm index and mean alpha-range. Additionally, these indices rose after physical loading and decreased following cognitive testing. Decline of individual alpha-peak frequencies observed during experimental sessions suggests tiredness. After physical loading, mean EEG coherence made an increase in alpha-power between the central and frontal regions.
Key words: electroencephalography, physical performance, cognitive test, long-term isolation.
Aviakosmicheskaya i Ekologicheskaya Meditsina (Russia). 2026. V. 60. ¹ 3. P. 33-39.
DOI: 10.21687/0233-528X-2026-60-3-33-39
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Goncharova A.G., Pastushkova L.Kh., Koloteva M.I., Rusanov V.B., Fedchuk M.I., Kashirina D.N., Larina I.M. Safety of interval training on a short-arm centrifuge as a countermeasure against orthostatic instability
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Longitudinal g-loads on a short-arm centrifuge (SAC) are considered as a promising countermeasure against orthostatic instability after space missions. Yet, safety of repeated sessions in context of cumulative effect and risks of gravitational heart deformation requires evidence and validation.
Six normal male subjects (38 ± 7 y.o.) participated in five 45-min SAC runs with alternation of +1.27 and +2.06 G to feet (+Gz). Levels of ST2, NT-proBNP è D-dimer (ELISA), heart rhythm variability and blood pressure were determined prior to and after rotation. Nonparametric criteria were used for static analysis.
Series of rotations did not produce significant changes in NT-proBNP, ST2 and D-dimer in the group. Individual analysis pointed to heterogeneity of the reactions which remained stable or decreased in most of the subjects. There were single instances of temporary rises of ST2 and D-dimer but not clinical manifestations. During rotation, heart rate (HR) increased and vegetative regulation shifted markedly towards sympathetic at the end of rotation. From the first to the final rotation, concordance of mean dynamic BP and HR increased. After the rotations, HR increase during the standing test was less than in control which suggested a blunted sympathetic reactivity.
These results attest to the positive training effect of interval SAC rotations and absence of manifestative overdistention of cardiomyocytes, risk of thrombosis or negative dynamics of vegetative regulation. Consequently, our data confirm safety of this training protocol for healthy people; they evidence also for individual approach to assessment of g-tolerance.
Key words: short-arm centrifuge, interval SAC protocol, safety, ST2, NT-proBNP, D-dimer, heart rate variability, blood pressure.
Aviakosmicheskaya i Ekologicheskaya Meditsina (Russia). 2026. V. 60. ¹ 3. P. 40-45.
DOI: 10.21687/0233-528X-2026-60-3-40-45
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Niyazov A.R., Baranov M.V., Pasekova O.B., Puchkova À.À., Fedyai S.Î., Poliakov À.V. Head-down bed rest as a model of the microgravity effects on human pain sensitivity
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Further enhancement of the spacecrew medical system requires in-depth study of the pain phenomenon. The paper discusses our investigation of the head-down bed rest (HDT) as a model of the microgravity effect on human pain sensitivity.
The investigation involved 11 human test-subjects at the age of 26 to 36 years. The integrated study of pain sensitivity was performed both with and without artificial gravity (rotation on a short-arm centrifuge, SAC) as a countermeasure. Methods to evaluate pain sensitivity and peripheral nervous system reactivity included the pressure pain threshold (PPT), heat pain threshold (HPT), and electroneuromyography (ENMG).
The statistically significant increase of the pain threshold (p < 0.05) was caused, probably, by the shift of body liquids toward the cranium which is a typical effect of space and modeled microgravity.
The results showed that concentration on subjective pain symptoms may lead sometimes to distortion of a diagnostic picture and underestimation of pathologies developing in missions or after return.
Key words: pain, pain threshold, space mission, microgravity, head-down bed rest, short-arm centrifuge, electroneuromyography.
Aviakosmicheskaya i Ekologicheskaya Meditsina (Russia). 2026. V. 60. ¹ 3. P. 46-52.
DOI: 10.21687/0233-528X-2026-60-3-46-52
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Ilyin V.K., Solovieva Z.O., Rykova M.P., Gurkova Ì.Ì., Sadchikova E.R., Nosovsky À.Ì., Yuskevich V.V. Use of countermeasures for correction of periodontal dysbiosis in members of isolation study SIRIUS-23
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Periodontium health was studied in members of year-long isolation project SIRIUS-23. Microbiological and immunological analyses of oral liquids were made to evaluate efficacy of oral gel Fagodent with bacteriophages.
Participants were 6 normal people (2 men and 4 women) at the age of 26 to 38 years. Liquid samples were collected 5 days prior to isolation (baseline data), on day 14 in isolation, in every 30 days in isolation, and on day 14 after isolation. Sampling was performed before hygienic procedures and breakfast; tooth brushing was not allowed on two previous days. The participants were divided into two groups with 3 members in each. All time in isolation, one group used Fagodent daily in 2-month courses with a 30-d break between courses. The other group started using a lactoferrin-based rinse in 7-d courses on month-3 of isolation. Samples were analyzed with the use of mass-spectrometry, bacteriological and biochemical techniques.
Non-pathogenic microorganisms prevailed in members of the group that used Fagodent and, therefore, enhanced their local humoral immunity. Gel and rinse both had a positive effect on the oral health of participants in this study.
Key words: isolation study, periodontal tissue, microflora, immune system, bacteriophages, lactoferrin.
Aviakosmicheskaya i Ekologicheskaya Meditsina (Russia). 2026. V. 60. ¹ 3. P. 53-61.
DOI: 10.21687/0233-528X-2026-60-3-53-61
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Prokopovich L.S., Ilyin V.K., Drobyshev A.Yu., Morozova Yu.À. Evaluation of the effect of prolonged preventive course of biological supplements enriched with salivary streptococci k12 and m18 on development of oral diseases of microbial etiology in humans exposed in an altered environment
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The paper presents results of testing the efficacy of bio supplements enriched with Streptococcus salivarius K12 and Streptococcus salivarius Ì18 to prevent oral microbial diseases in people living in space vehicles or their analogs such as dry immersion or isolation and confinement.
Participants were 14 human subjects divided into the prophylaxis group and control. Oral microbial prophylaxis consisted of the daily intake of one pill containing 2.5 billion CFUs. Data on the use of these bio supplements in aviation, marine and space medicine are not available. Criteria for efficacy evaluation included eubiotic indices of oral liquid (OLEI) and gingival liquid (GLEI), simplified dental deposit index (Lange’s API), and the WHO Community Periodontal index (CPI/CPITN) used to screen and treat periodontal diseases. Microorganisms were identified with the use of the bacteriological technique, PCR and mass spectrometry.
In the control group, there was a negative trend in periodontium condition, which was concluded from mean GLEI reduction by 2.083 % (p < 0.0925) and OLEI by 0.51 % (p < 0.1168), API increase by 23 % (p < 0.1016) and CPI/CPITN increase by 0.66 % (p < 0.1116). The prophylaxis group showed a positive trend, as mean GLEI increased by 1.443 % (p < 0.0839) and OLEI increased by 0.06 % (p < 0.0772); API reduced by 9.63% (p = 0.1834) and CPI/CPITN reduced by 0.33 (p = 0.3916)
Key words: inflammation, periodontium, extreme environment, medical control, prophylaxis.
Aviakosmicheskaya i Ekologicheskaya Meditsina (Russia). 2026. V. 60. ¹ 3. P. 62-69.
DOI: 10.21687/0233-528X-2026-60-3-62-69
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Kuznetsova O.S., Perevezentsev À.À., Yasnetsov Vik.V., Shtemberg A.S. Delayed effects of proton irradiation of the laboratory rat’s head
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Delayed effects of proton irradiation (2 Gy, single exposure of the head) were studied in Wistar rats. Within the near-term period (1-2 months) we observed elevated excitation and impairment of the conditioned active avoidance response. Expected life span of the irradiated rats finally.
Key words: space flights, protons, ions, central nervous system, life span.
Aviakosmicheskaya i Ekologicheskaya Meditsina (Russia). 2026. V. 60. ¹ 3. P. 70-75.
DOI: 10.21687/0233-528X-2026-60-3-70-75
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Shumilina I.V., Kolesnikov P.Yu., Kharakh Ya.N., Sadchikova E.R., Tsarev V.N., Arutyunov S.D., Ilyin V.K. Testing an innovative method of decontaminating sanitary and hygienic wastes collected in the SIRIUS-23 project (year-long isolation and confinement) with carbon dioxide in critical/subcrtical state
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Efficiency of a patented method for decontamination of sanitary and hygienic wastes using carbon dioxide was tested in the SIRIUS-23 project aimed to imitate a long-term mission to the Moon.
The decontaminator is intended for disinfection or killing of microbial organisms to a preset level in a critical/subcritical state.
To perform the investigation, sanitary and hygienic wastes were picked out from the household refuse which was subject to sterilization and biodegradation. Content and amount of airlocked refuse and mass of specific fractions were determined.
Total mass of the waste for decontamination made up 6 kg. Preliminary tests demonstrated ability of the decontaminator to eradicate unsanitary microorganisms, including spore-forming bacilli. Testing was performed with cultures of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Candidaalbicans, Bacillus subtilis. Level of decontamination (CO2 within 50 bars, 50–70 °C, f 30-60 minutes) was verified by inoculation on special purpose nutrient media according to the ISO and Russian standard (GOST) guidelines.
These results may help in designing life support systems, regeneration and waste management units for remote space missions and habitable bases on the Moon and Mars.
Key words: space crew waste, innovative method of decontamination, sanitary and hygienic wastes.
Aviakosmicheskaya i Ekologicheskaya Meditsina (Russia). 2026. V. 60. ¹ 3. P. 76-82.
DOI: 10.21687/0233-528X-2026-60-3-76-82
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Methods
Borovik A.S., Zhedyaev P.Yu., Vinogradova O.L., Prilutsky D.A., Tarasova O.S. Application of near-infrared spectroscopy to study dynamics of blood supply to human tissues during functional tests
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Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is gaining in popularity in biomedical investigations. This technique is based on registration of photons emitted by skin-mounted IR-source which after multiple scattering return to the photodetector located next to the source.
IR-spectroscopy helps determine changes in concentrations of the oxygenated and de-oxygenated forms of hemoglobin in small vessels located in tissue area under study. These changes may appear because of vasomotor responses, elevated metabolic activity of the tissue, changes in tissue blood content due to the gravitational factor or other effects. Owing to its ease of use and compatibility with various methods of measuring other physiological indices, NIRS can be applied to investigate dynamics of the muscle and brain blood accumulation during different functional tests.
The paper considers the basic principles of NIRS and provides examples of its use for monitoring blood flow in the brain during respiratory hypercapnia and in skeletal muscles in the course of intense aerobic work.
Key words: vascular system, blood supply to the brain, cerebrovascular reactivity, orthostasis, aerobic muscle exercise, blood supply to contracting muscle.
Aviakosmicheskaya i Ekologicheskaya Meditsina (Russia). 2026. V. 60. ¹ 3. P. 83-90.
DOI: 10.21687/0233-528X-2026-60-3-83-90
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Obituary
Buravkova Lyudmila Borisovna
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