Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Air Force Institute of Technology
The Texas Medical Center Library
Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University
Impact Of Stress & Fatigue On Cardiovascular Function In Young Pilots: A Thematic Review,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Impact Of Stress & Fatigue On Cardiovascular Function In Young Pilots: A Thematic Review, Swarna Manoj
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Impact of Stress & Fatigue on Cardiovascular Function in Young Pilots: A Thematic Review Authors: Swarna Manoj, Scott Ferguson Keywords: pilot, stress, fatigue, heart rate variability (HRV), cardiovascular disease (CVD) Aviation is expanding globally and young pilots are the major workforce, yet FAA protocols require mandatory ECG only from age 35, with annual cardiac screening after age 40. Over the past five years, a pattern of sudden cardiac arrests in pilots particularly aged 30-40 has urged safety concerns. Despite the existing literature examining fatigue, burnout, stress, sleep hygiene and circadian disruption, only few studies systematically examine how these factors impact …
Assessing The Impact Of Various Factors On Hypoxic Response,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Assessing The Impact Of Various Factors On Hypoxic Response, Reese Kim, Allysa Hayden
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Hypoxia is a condition in which the body’s tissues are deprived of oxygen and has deleterious effects on cognition, perception, and performance. Hypoxia has a myriad of symptoms such as euphoria, difficulty concentrating, headache, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, tunnel vision, and more. Outward signs of hypoxia include cyanosis (blueing of the fingertips and lips), tremors, loss of coordination, pallor, and complexion change, and can be used to notice the onset of hypoxia in others. Many factors are known to contribute to the manifestation of hypoxia, namely altitude, exposure duration, and certain physiological conditions such as heart problems and low blood flow …
Gene Therapy Strategies To Enhance Antifungal Immunity In Microgravity,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Gene Therapy Strategies To Enhance Antifungal Immunity In Microgravity, Riley Dienna
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
During spaceflight, the immune system of astronauts becomes impaired due to microgravity, resulting in increased susceptibility to infections caused by pathogens such as Candida albicans. One of the most common clinical treatments for aggressive candidiasis is amphotericin B, a polyene antimycotic that targeted ergosterol in the fungal cell membrane and compromised the stability of the membrane. However, due to the chemical similarities between ergosterol and cholesterol, this treatment also affects the somatic cells of patients it is administered to. A novel treatment is therefore required to combat the aggressive fungal infection while minimizing damage to the host’s cells. This project …
Using H2ax As A Biological Indicator To Assess Radiation-Induced Bone Loss In Microgravity Environments,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Using H2ax As A Biological Indicator To Assess Radiation-Induced Bone Loss In Microgravity Environments, Angeline Nichols, Enoch Tonkin, Ana Lobaton, Jahzara Hope
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Long-duration space missions expose astronauts to microgravity and chronic low-dose radiation, both greatly impacting skeletal health. While mechanical unloading in microgravity is a well-known driver of bone loss, recent evidence indicates that radiation independently contributes to bone deterioration by increasing osteoclast activity, which remodel bone faster, and suppress osteoblast differentiation. H2AX, a histone protein that rapidly phosphorylates into y-H2AX in response to the double strands of DNA breaking, has emerged as a sensitive biological marker for radiation exposure. This project aims to determine the efficacy of H2AX in the presence of radiation-induced DNA damage in bone marrow, compared to microgravity …
Analysis Of Non-Thermal Plasma’S Effects On Melanoma: A Biological Examination,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Analysis Of Non-Thermal Plasma’S Effects On Melanoma: A Biological Examination, Violet Ochrietor, Mia Nilsen, Arden Rodriguez, Ally Schwennesen
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that may present as a real and increased risk during long-term spaceflight due to radiation exposure and limited treatment options. Non-Thermal Plasma (NTP) has emerged as a promising therapeutic tool due to its ability to generate reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS) that affect cellular functioning without causing temperature related damage to surrounding tissues. This project investigates the effects of NTP on melanoma cells through a biological examination of exposure time, frequency of plasma, and cellular growth conditions. Human melanoma cells and keratinocytes will be cultured and exposed to the …
The Effect Of Snris On Pilot Reaction Time In Simulated Flight,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
The Effect Of Snris On Pilot Reaction Time In Simulated Flight, Isabella Owen, Aidan Roach, Micah Henry, Casey Tressler
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Many aviators who are prescribed serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI) or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) to treat mental health disorders such as major depressive disorder, general anxiety disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder must halt their duties for a set amount of time. This is due to aviation authorities having data that suggests SNRIs and SSRIs lead to inhibitions in mental processes that can cause crashes or death. Most of the research that has been conducted examined the effects of SSRIs on individuals without mental health disorders in non-flight settings. This study will explore the effect SNRIs have on …
Effects Of Microgravity And Gamma Radiation On Biofilm Growth,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Effects Of Microgravity And Gamma Radiation On Biofilm Growth, Anya Pavlidis, Kaitlyn Mills Mills, Eva Mcclory, Grant Erlinder, Allen Qiu
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Biofilms are collections of bacteria that commonly grow on a variety of surfaces. They are resistant to environmental impacts as bacteria fortify themselves to a surface. Biofilms are commonly found on Earth, but more problematically are also found on spacecraft. On the ISS biofilms have developed in spaces like the workout area, food spaces, and most concerning in the Water Recovery System (WRS). Biofilms tend to react differently to attempted cleaning methods in space than they do on Earth and can be located in extremely difficult to reach places. This study aims to explore the effects of gamma radiation on …
Effects Of Sleep Duration And Perceived Stress Of Reaction Time In Undergraduate Students,
2026
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Effects Of Sleep Duration And Perceived Stress Of Reaction Time In Undergraduate Students, Caitlin Wescott, Edna Urrutia, Ryan F. Rednick, David Still
Discovery Day - Daytona Beach
Sleep deprivation and psychological stress are common among undergraduate students and can negatively affect cognitive performance. Reaction time is an important indicator of attention and processing speed and plays a critical role in both everyday activities, such as driving, and high-performance environments where rapid responses are required. This study aims to examine how sleep duration and perceived stress levels influence reaction time in undergraduate students. Participants will report their sleep duration and perceived stress levels through short surveys and wearable sleep data, while reaction time will be measured using a standardized computerized reaction time test. By comparing reaction time across …
Exploring The Potential Of Martian Agriculture: Assessing Viability And Nutritional Composition Of Plants Cultivated In Martian Regolith,
2025
Harding University
Exploring The Potential Of Martian Agriculture: Assessing Viability And Nutritional Composition Of Plants Cultivated In Martian Regolith, Abigail Ross
Honors Theses
In addition to sunlight and water, plants can utilize a small number of nutrients from the soil to biosynthesize all the materials that are needed for growth and development. However, plants require an environment where they are able to obtain those nutrients, such as iron, magnesium, potassium, sulfur, and nitrogen. Environmental factors determine the types and accessibility of nutrients available to plants. Plants then take up these nutrients from the soil to aid in biological mechanisms and the synthesis of important molecules needed for growth and development. Ascorbic acid, commonly known as Vitamin C, is a vital molecule that is …
Sex-Dependent Changes In Risk-Taking Predisposition Of Rats Following Space Radiation Exposure,
2025
Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University
Sex-Dependent Changes In Risk-Taking Predisposition Of Rats Following Space Radiation Exposure, Elliot Smits, Faith E. Reid, Ella N. Tamgue, Paola Alvarado Arriaga, Charles Nguyen, Richard A. Britten
Department Radiation Oncology & Biophysics Faculty Publications
The Artemis missions will establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon, serving as a crucial steppingstone for future Mars exploration. Astronauts on these ambitious missions will have to successfully complete complex tasks, which will frequently involve rapid and effective decision making under unfamiliar or high-pressure conditions. Exposure to low doses of space radiation (SR) can impair key executive functions critical to decision making. This study examined the effects of exposure to 10 cGy of Galactic Cosmic Ray simulated radiation (GCRsim) on decision-making performance in male and female rats with a naturally low predisposition for risk-taking (RTP) prior to exposure. …
Antagomir Treatment For Deep-Space Simulated Changes In The Liver Of Mice,
2024
University of Central Florida
Antagomir Treatment For Deep-Space Simulated Changes In The Liver Of Mice, Natalie P. Hayslip
Honors Undergraduate Theses
With the start of NASA’s Artemis program, astronauts will soon leave the protection of Earth’s magnetosphere. Previous studies have established a theme of liver dysregulation associated with the harmful radiation and microgravity experienced in deep space. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of many of the pathologies observed during and after spaceflight, including hepatic fibrosis, making them strong potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Therefore, in the present study we investigated the effects of simulated microgravity, galactic cosmic radiation (GCR), and solar particle events (SPE) on miRNAs and mRNAs involved in the TGF-β signaling pathway, a key regulator of fibrosis, senescence, and …
Exposure To Low (10 Cgy) Doses Of ⁴He Ions Leads To An Apparent Increase In Risk Taking Propensity In Female Rats,
2024
Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University
Exposure To Low (10 Cgy) Doses Of ⁴He Ions Leads To An Apparent Increase In Risk Taking Propensity In Female Rats, Nina Li, Simran Phuyal, Elliot Smits, Faith E. Reid, Ella N. Tamgue, Paola Alvarado Arriaga, Richard A. Britten
Department of Medicine Faculty Publications
The planned missions to the Moon and Mars will present more significant health challenges to astronauts compared to low earth orbit missions. During deep space missions, astronauts will be constantly exposed to Space radiation (SR). Multiple rodent studies suggest that < 25 cGy of SR impairs performance in executive functions, which play a key role in advanced cognitive processes, but also regulate response inhibition and impulse control. There is the possibility that SR exposure may exacerbate aberrant behaviors evoked by psychological stress related to exposure to isolated and confined (ICE) hostile environment or independently induce additional aberrant behaviors. This study has determined that female Wistar rats exposed to 10 cGy of 250 MeV/n He had an increased risk taking propensity (RTP)\compared to shams. The increased RTP of the He-exposed rats was associated with significantly increased reaction times during the trials, suggesting a SR-induced loss of processing speed. The response times of the He-exposed rats were even further reduced in trials that immediately followed a loss, raising the possibility that conflict and interference avoidance may be impaired after SR exposure. Whether these findings occur following other types of SR exposure, and/or in male rats remains to be determined.
Awareness & Prevention Of Health Hazards For Americans Embarking In Space Tourism,
2023
Rowan University
Awareness & Prevention Of Health Hazards For Americans Embarking In Space Tourism, Krzysztof Zembrzuski
Rowan-Virtua Research Day
Since the beginning of spaceflight, keeping humans healthy has been a serious concern. Prior to 2021, astronauts had to undergo an elite selection process to embark in space travel. Now that commercial spaceflight is a reality, the criteria to experience space has been significantly loosened, raising health concerns to a larger and unhealthier pool of travelers. Most commercial spaceflight clients are anticipated to be middle-aged adults, which implies many will suffer from high blood pressure and heart disease, both of which are frequent ailments in this age group. Because of the massive compression the body undergoes during takeoff and return, …
Flying Under The Radar: A Survey Of Collegiate Pilots’ Mental Health To Identify Aeromedical Nondisclosure And Healthcare-Seeking Behaviors,
2023
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Flying Under The Radar: A Survey Of Collegiate Pilots’ Mental Health To Identify Aeromedical Nondisclosure And Healthcare-Seeking Behaviors, Emily Faulconer, Lauren Pitts
Publications
The disclosure of a new or existing mental health condition in a pilot complicates their medical certification status. It has been proposed that the threat of losing medical certification often discourages pilots from seeking treatment for mental health issues or disclosing such information to aeromedical professionals, contributing to a barrier to seeking healthcare that affects pilots of all certification levels. The current study focused on the nondisclosure and healthcare-seeking behaviors of the collegiate pilot population(N = 2,452)at a large, accredited, private institution that offers flight training in accordance with Pilot Schools (2022). Data collected from our anonymous online survey over …
Flying Under The Radar: A Survey Of Collegiate Pilots’ Mental Health To Identify Aeromedical Nondisclosure And Healthcare-Seeking Behaviors,
2023
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Flying Under The Radar: A Survey Of Collegiate Pilots’ Mental Health To Identify Aeromedical Nondisclosure And Healthcare-Seeking Behaviors, Lauren Pitts, Emily Faulconer
Publications
The disclosure of a new or existing mental health condition in a pilot complicates their medical certification status. It has been proposed that the threat of losing medical certification often discourages pilots from seeking treatment for mental health issues or disclosing such information to aeromedical professionals, contributing to a barrier to seeking healthcare that affects pilots of all certification levels. The current study focused on the nondisclosure and healthcare-seeking behaviors of the collegiate pilot population(N = 2,452)at a large, accredited, private institution that offers flight training in accordance with Pilot Schools (2022). Data collected from our anonymous online survey over …
Utilizing The System Engineering Trade Study Analysis Method To Analyze Patient Aeromedical Evacuation,
2023
Air Force Institute of Technology
Utilizing The System Engineering Trade Study Analysis Method To Analyze Patient Aeromedical Evacuation, Sara Shaghaghi, Jeremy M. Slagley, Michael E. Miller, Gaiven Varshney
Faculty Publications
The US Air Force has gone through many aeromedical patient isolation transport system designs. The first designs were developed in response to the Ebola outbreak in 2014 and, more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. The trade study analysis part of the system engineering design method was used to analyze the historic and current aeromedical patient contamination control transport systems. A trade study is a process that evaluates alternatives based upon various “-ilities”, such as reconfigurability, flexibility, durability, cost, and more, and performs a systematic analysis to aid designers in producing a ‘good’ design alternative given the large set of possible solutions. …
Enabling Human Space Exploration Missions Through Progressively Earth Independent Medical Operations (Eimo),
2023
The Texas Medical Center Library
Enabling Human Space Exploration Missions Through Progressively Earth Independent Medical Operations (Eimo), Dana R Levin, Jon Steller, Arian Anderson, Jay Lemery, Benjamin Easter, David C Hilmers, Kris R Lehnhardt
Faculty, Staff and Students Publications
Goal: Current Space Medicine operations depend on terrestrial support to manage medical events. As astronauts travel to destinations such as the Moon, Mars, and beyond, distance will substantially limit this support and require increasing medical autonomy from the crew. This paper defines Earth Independent Medical Operations (EIMO) and identifies key elements of a conceptual EIMO system. Methods: The NASA Human Research Program Exploration Medical Capability Element held a 2-day conference at Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX with NASA experts representing all aspects of Space Medicine. Results: EIMO will be a process enabling progressively resilient deep space exploration systems and …
A Qualitative Descriptive Study On Re-Assessing The Mental Certification By Faa For Future Pilots,
2022
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
A Qualitative Descriptive Study On Re-Assessing The Mental Certification By Faa For Future Pilots, Kaung Z. Min
Student Works
Mental illness becomes one of the main problems that most pilots do not usually address. It is not because pilots do not have the courage or are open enough to talk with someone, but because the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) forces them to hide from mental depression. Most of the time, the pilots are not willing to declare such illnesses as they fear losing their job; simultaneously, the Federal Aviation Agencies across the world require pilots to be in peat health, including their mental condition, to operate the aircraft. While it can be said that the passengers’ and crews’ safety …
The Effects Of Energy Beverages In Counteracting The Symptoms Of Mild Hypoxia At Legal General Aviation Altitudes,
2012
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
The Effects Of Energy Beverages In Counteracting The Symptoms Of Mild Hypoxia At Legal General Aviation Altitudes, Daniel Mark Bull
Doctoral Dissertations and Master's Theses
The purpose of this thesis was to conduct preliminary research, in the form of a pilot study, concerning the natural effects of hypoxia compared to the effects of hypoxia experienced after the consumption of an energy beverage. The study evaluated the effects of hypoxia on FAA certificated pilots at a simulated legal general aviation altitude, utilizing the normobaric High Altitude Lab (HAL) located at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach, Florida. The researcher tested 11 subjects, who completed three simulated flight tasks within the HAL using the Frasca International Mentor Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD). The flight tasks were …
