ENDOCRINE-METABOLIC RESPONSE TO SEQUENTIAL DECOMPRESSION DURING SIMULATED ORBITAL FLIGHT,
Abstract
Urinary catecholamines, 17-hydroxycorticosteroids, various electrolytes, and certain nitrogenous metabolites were measured to assess the physiologic effects of exposure to hypobaric conditions similar to some that have been or may be used in orbiting spacecraft or during extravehicular activity. Nineteen volunteer human subjects were studied during sequential exposure to the following gaseous environments and pressures: (a) oxygen at 14.5 p.s.i.a., 4 hours; (b) oxygen at 5 p.s.i.a., 2.5 hours; (c) oxygen at 3.5 p.s.i.a., 15 minutes; (d) 46% oxygen/50% nitrogen, at 7 p.s.i.a., 4 hours; and (e) oxygen at 3.5 p.s.i.a., 1.25 hours. Nonspecific stress was evidenced by decompression-induced elevations (which were progressive with time) in creatinine, urine volume, sodium, norepinephrine, and urea. Epinephrine was also elevated, but the peak effect came at an early time. As a late effect, 17-OHCS excretion became elevated. These findings confirm previous observations. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1968
- Accession Number
- AD0676144
Entities
People
- Edgar W. Williams
- Henry B. Hale
Organizations
- United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine