[Hematological investigations in conditions of long-term space flights].

In the nearly 15-month mission aboard MIR the cosmonaut-physician and members of three crews (MIR-15, -16, and -17) carried out a program of hematological investigations. Most of the changes related to the red blood system and included reduction in hemoglobin and hematocrit. Erythrocytes had decreased concentration and took on abnormal forms.

[Hematologic parameters in the peripheral blood of cosmonauts].

The main hematological parameters of the peripheral blood were analyzed in a large group of normal males--cosmonauts. The observation period comprised from 10 to 28 years. A total of 22 parameters were used to obtain the criterion for the interpretation of the results of peripheral blood investigation.

[Results of hematological examinations of crew members of the space vehicles EO-2, EO-3 and EO-4].

The authors' opinion that adaptation inhibition of erythron functioning under weightlessness produces an unfavourable effect on the optimal physical state of a cosmonaut and his working capacity in the post-flight period has been confirmed by the analysis of certain hematological parameters studied in cosmonauts. The data obtained have necessitated investigation of threshold values of erythron functioning under weightlessness, and creation of artificial gravitation on board the piloted space ship to normalize erythropoiesis. Investigation of these problems of space hematology would be helpful in validation of the limits of human's long-term stay under weightlessness, and in the pre- and post-flight period management.

[Effect of coamide and folicobalamin on erythropoiesis during ordinary vital activities and in head-down tilt hypokinesia].

The study was performed on 41 healthy men, aged 19 to 40, who led a normal life or were exposed to short-term or long-term head-down tilts. The effectiveness of hemostimulants was determined with respect to hemoglobin, red blood cells or reticulocyte counts. Folicobalamine and coamide administration in therapeutic doses increased hemoglobin and reticulocyte blood levels in the ambulant subjects or those exposed to a 7-day head-down tilt.