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Long-term exposure to zero-g and the gastro-intestinal tract functionThe gastrointestinal tract (GIT) function is described with emphasis placed on its important role to smooth, delay, and modify sudden fluid load stress applied to the fluid distribution control system in the body. Two basic components of the GIT are considered: stomach dynamics, which involves storage, mixing, and discharge of food into the intestine after addition of gastric juices; and absorption of water and electrolytes from the small intestine. A dynamic model of these components is described, along with performance characteristics computed consecutively for one g and zero g conditions. The main impact of the zero g condition appears to be through a change in osmotic driven transport across the gut wall. A dramatic change in transport characteristics is predicted with implication for many body systems (the immune system in particular) during long-term exposure to zero g. Experimental measurements in zero g are needed to evaluate these predictions.
Document ID
19900026555
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Mccormack, Percial D.
(NASA Life Sciences Div. Washington, DC, United States)
Date Acquired
August 14, 2013
Publication Date
October 1, 1989
Subject Category
Aerospace Medicine
Report/Patent Number
IAF PAPER 89-569
Accession Number
90A13610
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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