[Basic patterns of microflora development in the environment of orbital complex Mir].
During the multi-year operation of orbital complex Mir a systematic survey of development and behavior of microflora was performed in order to assess the associated risks to the piloted vehicle. Microorganisms isolated from the Mir environment represented 234 species of which 108 were bacteria and 126 microscopic fungi. Bacteria included opportunistic pathogens causing opportunistic infections. There were also fungi that were pathogenic for humans leading to mycosis and mycotoxication. The largest species diversity was characteristic of fungi, so-called technophils damaging polymers and corroding metals. Staphylococcus, Micrococcus, Corynebacterium Bacillus dominated among the bacteria and Penicullium, Aspergillus and Cladosporium were most common, omnipresent and numerous among the fungi. Microbial contamination of Mir undulated so that activation periods alternated period of stabilization and other species prevailed in number and spread. Evaluation of microflora in this environment was conducive of medical and technological risks.
Novikova
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D001419:Bacteria / Q000254:growth & development / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D017753:Ecosystem; D005658:Fungi / Q000254:growth & development / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D006801:Humans; D013026:Space Flight; D018531:Spacecraft