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This study explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the motivation of medical students using a mixed-method, user-led approach with students as both participants and researchers. Data were collected in 2021 through essays describing students’ motivation during the pandemic. The essays were coded, categorized, quantified, and statistically analyzed for gender-based differences. Results showed that while 71% of students reported increased motivation, female students more often experienced fluctuating motivation levels. Key motivational factors included career aspirations and educational purpose, whereas demotivational factors involved disruptions to college life and mental health struggles. Notably, female students disproportionately expressed doubts about the medical profession. The study also utilized a collaborative autoethnographic method to explore the researchers’ own pandemic experiences, revealing long-term positive effects and resonating with initial findings. This research contributes to understanding the pandemic’s long-term impact on medical students and offers insights into nurturing resilient future doctors capable of handling healthcare crises.

Abstract Skeletal muscle is sensitive to gravitational alterations. We recently developed a multiple artificial-gravity research system (MARS), which can generate gravity ranging from microgravity to Earth gravity (1 g) in space. Using the MARS, we studied the effects of three different gravitational levels (microgravity, lunar gravity [1/6 g], and 1 g) on the skeletal muscle mass and myofiber constitution in mice. All mice survived and returned to Earth, and skeletal muscle was collected two days after landing. We observed that microgravity-induced soleus muscle atrophy was prevented by lunar gravity. However, lunar gravity failed to prevent the slow-to-fast myofiber transition in the soleus muscle in space. These results suggest that lunar gravity is enough to maintain proteostasis, but a greater gravitational force is required to prevent the myofiber type transition. Our study proposes that different gravitational thresholds may be required for skeletal muscle adaptation.

INTRODUCTION: As commercial spaceflight experiences unprecedented growth, it is imperative to note its increasing inclusivity, particularly in terms of female space traveler participation. With space tourism transitioning from a dream to reality for a broader demographic, delving into women's health for the spaceflight paradigm becomes essential. This scoping review consolidates current literature on women's health challenges in commercial space endeavors, pinpointing areas that need clarity. The synthesis will aid primary care providers in executing informed medical risk evaluations. METHODS: In alignment with objectives set by the women's health team, a structured search strategy was defined. The focal points of our investigation included areas of reproductive health, hormonal dynamics, and prevalent gynecological conditions such as abnormal uterine bleeding, ovarian torsion, ectopic pregnancy as well other concerns the effect of radiation in space. A search was performed across PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PSYCINFO, and Web of Science for the considered literature extended from 2000 to 2023. Covidence software was used for abstract screening and full text reviews. A rigorous dualreview protocol was employed to assess each article's suitability, with senior members resolving instances of discrepancy. The main goal is to identify studies pertaining to commercial spaceflights. RESULTS: Our database search yielded 4,416 potential articles. After screening, a set of articles was chosen for in-depth analysis. The significant portion of the literature pertaining directly to women's health in space conditions was grounded in animal models, while direct data from professional female astronauts was markedly limited or dated. Further, majority of the studies did not stratify and compare participants in terms of sex differences in hormone sensitive tissues. Nonetheless, based on animal models space- flight may impact reproductive health. DISCUSSION: This comprehensive scoping review illuminates the current knowledge regarding women's health in relation to commercial spaceflight, and the limitations on available knowledge due to fewer female participants in spaceflight. It underscores the importance of understanding women's health issues in the unique environment of space, giving direction to primary care providers. Additionally, there's a pressing need to refine commercial spaceflight medical screening procedures and establish evidence-driven safety standards. Learning Objectives 1. Understand the unique women's health challenges and conditions as they relate to commercial spaceflight, with a focus on reproductive endocrinology, hormonal dynamics, pregnancy, prevalent gynecological conditions, and gynecologic cancer risk. 2. Analyze the current state of literature on women's health in the context of space travel, emphasizing the importance of addressing the gap in knowledge. 3. Recognize the significance of refining commercial spaceflight medical screening procedures to encompass women's health specifics and the establishment of evidence-driven safety standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]