Research Activities

Authors: Bader H. Shirah & Yousef M. Al Talhi

Abstract

The establishment of the Saudi Space Commission in 2018 marked a breakthrough for Saudi Arabia, in which the nation expressed its capacity for space exploration. In this context, space medicine is a subspecialty of focus that aims to maintain human health and performance in the extreme environment of outer space based on scientific knowledge concerning the aerodynamic effects on the human body. The field is not widely common and is only now established in a few countries with advanced research capabilities in the field of space exploration. However, there is great potential in space medicine with a multitude of strong research opportunities. This advancing field may result in knowledge that far exceeds the currently known and well-investigated aspects of human health. Nevertheless, progress has been hindered by some challenges, including a limited number of institutions, human resources, and research funding. This article provides a roadmap for the creation, development, and improvement of space medicine in Saudi Arabia.

Authors: Bader H. Shirah & Mohammed M. Ahmed

Abstract

Space presents ample opportunities for a wide range of highly innovative applications, as well as products and services that directly benefit humanity. Patents are an excellent barometer of innovation. Over the last four decades, researchers have made novel discoveries about the human body in space, and global patent filing in the space sector has consistently grown. Space medicine, as a distinct field, was still in its infancy five decades ago. Scientists studying the effects of space travel on the human body have begun to appreciate the relevance and possibility of future discoveries in the field. Major innovations in healthcare, including insulin pumps and cochlear implants, are a result of space medical research. While patents are becoming more prevalent in space medicine, they are not as ubiquitous as other manufacturing and technology sectors.

Authors: Bader H. Shirah , Bader M. Ibrahim , Yasser Aladdin, Jon Sen

Abstract

Space exploration is crucial for understanding our surroundings and establishing scientific concepts to explore, monitor, and save our planet’s environment. However, the response of the human nervous system in the environment of space poses numerous challenges. Brain complexity explains the vulnerability and intrinsic difficulty of recalibration after disturbance. Over the millennia, the brain has evolved to function at 1-G. Studying the brain and its physiology in different environments may shed light on multiple conditions encountered on Earth that are yet to be solved and dictate collaboration at international levels. The nervous system is affected by several stressors due to microgravity, radiation, isolation, disruption of circadian rhythm, impaired sleep dynamics, and hypercapnia associated with space travel. In this article, we aim to review several aspects related to the nervous system in weightless conditions, as well as the development and future of the emerging field of “space neuroscience.” Space neuroscience is a fascinating, embryonic field that requires significant development. The establishment of frameworks for the strategic development of space neuroscience is vital, as more research and collaboration are required to overcome these numerous and diverse challenges, minimize risks, and optimize crew performance during planetary operations.

Automated pupillometry in space neuroscience

Authors: Bader H. Shirah, Jon Sen, Nada K. Naaman, Shawna Pandya

Abstract

Modern pupillometers are automated, thereby providing an objective, accurate, and reliable evaluation of various aspects of the pupillary light reflex at precision levels that were previously unobtainable. There are many gaps in knowledge regarding pupil size and pupillary light reflex in nervous system changes related to space travel given the previous lack of a precise method to quantitatively measure it. Automated pupillometry has not been used previously in space. This novel tool has promising uses in altered gravity environments as a sensitive non-invasive tool to determine alterations due to headward fluid shifts and elevated intracranial pressure. This article discusses the potential use of automated pupillometry in space for monitoring of astronaut health and neurological pathology.

Benefits of Space Medicine Research for Healthcare on Earth

Authors: Bader Shirah, Hatim Bukhari, Shawna Pandya, Heba A. Ezmeirlly

Abstract

Space research has brought various discoveries and benefits in the fields of health, transportation, safety measures, industry, and many more. Additionally, space research has provided a large number of discoveries and inventions in the field of medicine. Many of these inventions benefit humanity in multiple ways, especially with regard to well-being. Research objectives range from the early detection of illnesses to statistical studies that help in epidemiology. Furthermore, there are potential future opportunities that might help in the development of mankind in general and Earth medicine in particular. This review presents some of the significant inventions that were made through the journey to space and elaborate on how those inventions helped develop Earth medicine and other fields.

Young Professionals’ Perception of Space Exploration and Medicine in Saudi Arabia

Authors: Yousef Al Talhi, Bader H. Shirah, Sara Osman, Hashem Almarzouki, Nada O. Taher, Mohammed M. Ahmed

Abstract

With recent advancements in space exploration plans and human spaceflight, civilian participation is no longer imaginary. This study aimed at exploring young professionals’ perceptions of space exploration and space medicine in Saudi Arabia during the Saudi Vision 2030 era. This cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted in Saudi Arabia. The inclusion criteria were residents of Saudi Arabia with educational levels of high school or higher. In total, 341 participants completed the survey. The mean age of the participants was 23 years (interquartile range: 10). A total of 31.1% (106 participants) were medical students and 17.9% (61 participants) were physicians. Most participants (75%) had never heard of space medicine. Among physicians and medical students, more than 85% responded with “yes” and “maybe” when asked whether they will pursue a career in space medicine if given the opportunity. This is the first study to evaluate young professionals’ perceptions of space exploration and medicine in Saudi Arabia during the Saudi Vision 2030 era. This study offered insights into the limited perception and expectations of the participants toward ongoing advancement in the space industry. Nevertheless, Saudi physicians’ and medical students’ perceptions of space medicine as a pursued sub-specialty in the future are very optimistic. Raising awareness about the importance of space medicine is highly recommended.

Research Activities

A roadmap for incorporating space medicine into the strategic plans of the Saudi space commission

Patents in space medicine: An immediate call for innovations in the field

Space neuroscience: current understanding and future research