Scott Dulchavsky on how astronauts can diagnose injuries in space
An astronaut on the International Space Station is using an ultrasound machine to monitor the chest of a fellow astronaut. Within just seconds, the image is received on Earth, where a medical doctor can examine the image and diagnose any problems.
In spite of extensive astronaut training, space flight is inherently dangerous, and serious injuries are always possible. Treating these injuries requires accurate, timely diagnosis. National Space Biomedical Research Institute (NSBRI) scientist, Scott Dulchavsky, has developed a technique to train space flight crews to conduct medical-quality ultrasound imaging in space. Images of the suspected injury are collected with a portable ultrasound unit, and within seconds, the image is transmitted to Earth, where experts can confirm the diagnosis and guide the treatment procedures.
Students create an ocean floor profile from sonar data. Using an equation, based on the speed of sound in water, students determine the depth of the ocean floor at measured distances from the shoreline.
Students create an ocean floor topographic map from clay models in a simulation of sonar mapping.
Additional Activities/Extensions
Have students investigate ultrasound and telemedicine careers.
Students can visualize the ultrasound process using a simple wave tank, which can be assembled from a clear baking dish and a flashlight. Place different reflecting surfaces at one end of the dish and create waves at the other end. A short stick, held horizontally, can make a strong wave for reflection. Elevate the dish and shine a flashlight from above the tank to create shadow on a white surface below. Reflected wave patterns change with the different shaped reflecting surfaces (straight, curved, slanted, etc.). See illustration (pdf).
The position of an object can be described by locating it relative to another object or the background.
Science in Personal and Social Perspectives – Science and technology in local challenges
People continue inventing new ways of doing things, solving problems, and getting work done.
5-8 Standards
Science as Inquiry – Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry
Use appropriate tools and techniques to gather, analyze, and interpret data.
Science in Personal and Social Perspectives – Science and Technology in Society
Technology influences society through its products and processes.
9-12 Standards
Science as Inquiry – Use technology and mathematics to improve investigations and communications
A variety of technologies, such as hand tools, measuring instruments, and calculators, should be an integral component of scientific investigations.
Science as Inquiry – Understandings about Scientific Inquiry
Scientists usually inquire about how physical, living, or designed systems function.
Scientists rely on technology to enhance the gathering and manipulation of data.
Physical Science – Interactions of Energy and Matter
Waves, including sound and seismic waves, waves on water, and light waves, have energy and can transfer energy when they interact with matter.
Science and Technology – Understandings about science and technology
Science often advances with the introduction of new technologies.
BioEd Online was developed in partnership with Texas A&M University and is funded by grants from Houston Endowment Inc.; Howard Hughes Medical Institute; Science Education Partnership Award program of the National Center for Research Resources, National Institutes of Health (NIH); National Space Biomedical Research Institute; Robert Wood Johnson Foundation; National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, NIH; National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, NIH; National Science Foundation GK-12 Program; RGK Foundation; and The Powell Foundation.
