Influence of Gravito-Inertial Force on Vestibular Nystagmus in Man (Invloed van hoge +Gz gravito-inertiaal kracht op de vestibulaire nystagmus bij de mens)
Abstract
The influence of high +Gz gravito-inertial force (- G load) on the vestibular system in man has been investigated in a centrifuge with a freely swinging gondola. The vertical vestibular nystagmus induced by acceleration to 3G was analysed, and compared with reference measurements at 1G. Our results indicate that the effects of increased G load are expressed in a prolonged time constant of the upbeat nystagmus, and in a subject-dependent persisting component of this nystagmus. In an attempt to explain these findings, a current model on the generation of vestibular induced eye movements is extended: Angular acceleration stimulates the semicircular canals, which in an existing model induce slow compensatory eye movements via a direct reflex path, as well as through an integrating network in the central vestibular nuclei. This model is extended with the G load as a stimulus function for the otoliths, which are influencing eye movements via a direct path, as well as through a modulating action on the central integrator. This influence of G load on the vestibular system could interfere with visual perception, and thereby play a role in inducing spatial disorientation. Netherlands.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA218086
Entities
People
- J. T. Marcus