Mental and physical changes of wintering members of the 30th Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition in 1988-1990

Abstract

Medical and psychological investigations were performed on the 30th Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition (JARE-30) wintering members throughout a year. Psychosomatic investigation consisted of CMI, Y-G and Egogram. Physiological investigation consisted of standard 12-induction electrocardiogram, holter long-time electrocardiogram, blood pressure, hematological and biochemical studies, and serum cortisol level. Although no significant disease was experienced throughout the wintering period, various mental and physical complains were observed. The depressive tendency and the decrease of positiveness were seen in the midwinter period. With holter long-time electrocardiogram recordings, the disappearance of the circadian rhythms of heart rate was observed. The elevation of serum cortisol level was observed which suggests the existence of stress-irritation. Serum total protein, serum alubumin, hematocrit and hemogrobin lowered during the wintering period. Other examinations on electrocardiogram, blood pressure, hematological and biochemical studies revealed no significant changes.