Brain Changes in Response to Long-Duration Isolation and Confinement

Inclusion Criteria: * Candidates who are professionals in the aerospace industry or related fields are eligible at a lower age limit of 28 * Height not to exceed 180 cm. * Willing to be confined and isolated for up to 8 months. * English and Russian verbal and written proficiency not lower than intermediate * Absence of chronic disease or psychological deviations Exclusion Criteria: * Everybody who does not meet listed above requirements * Past mental, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and/or neurovestibular disorders or diseases * Pronounced orthostatic intolerance or vestibular balance disorders (kinetosis) * Abuses of drugs, medication or alcohol * Claustrophobia * Malnutrition up to 6 months before the start of the study * Intake of anabolic steroids up to 6 months before study initiation * Metal implants or other osteosynthesis materials * Bisphosphonate therapy * Taking medication that could influence the results of the examination. * Taking hormonal contraceptives in the last 6 months before the start of the study * Menstrual disorders * Delivery up to 6 months before the start of studies * clinically manifest abnormalities in the resting ECG that preclude participation in the study * Hypertension (\> 130/85 mmHg) * Increased risk of thrombosis * Increased risk of stroke * Infection with HIV or HBV * HIV, hepatitis A, B, or tuberculosis infection * clinically manifest changes in the differential blood count * Clinically manifest changes according to the Comprehensive …