1st Assignment: AS1 Identifying Skeletal Remains

1st Assignment: AS1 Identifying Skeletal Remains Consider the following scenario. Archeologists completed an examination of 14 human skeletons found buried under tons of volcanic ash 1200 years ago. Intact skeletal components were parts of the appendicular skeleton (tibia, fibula, radius, ulna, femur, phlanges, coxal bones) and parts of the axial skeleton (skull, vertebral column, rib cage). Observations of the bones indicate that half of the skeletons have bone densities 30% less than those of the other skeletons. The skeletons with the lower bone mass also have broader pelvic bones. The smaller skeletons have bones with evidence of epiphyseal plates; however, larger bones have only a thin line where the epiphyseal plates should be. By examining these bones and other bones which may be ultimately found, scientists were able to determine the sex, approximate age, physical health, and even the general profession of each individual. How could the examination of a preserved skeleton in this scenario and other geographical area yield such a vast array of information? What specific information could be retrieved from a study of bones? What other information could be determined from bones in this condition-besides sex, age, healh, profession? What deductions can be made regarding these and other skeletons that have been buried for a long time? What scientific evidence leads you to these conclusions? Although many of the bones survived 1200 years, certain bone components have decomposed. What specific parts of the skeletal structure have decomposed? Why? Why are the remaining parts intact all of these years? Detail your answer. Remember to incorporate scientific principles and recent research/studies/examples in your discussion. Cite the resources. The report should be a minimum of 500-600 words 2nd Assignment: AS2 Bionic Human It is often said that science fiction is slowly becoming science fact. Years ago, a television series, “The Bionic Man” was simply fiction; today it is a reality. A thought controlled bionic limb that interconnects the Skeletal System with the Muscular System is no longer science fiction. Discuss the concept of bionics interweaving the mechanics of bones and muscles in order to develop an integrated, functional yet artificial Musculoskeletal System between bones, muscles, and nerves. Explain the overall mechanism of movement. Cite the latest research and explain the physiology illustrating how scientists have engineered functional bionic bones and muscles in relation to the nervous system. While the use of bionics was initially destined to help the disabled live a normal life, today, scientists are researching methods to give superhuman strength to those in certain professions-firefighters, military, law enforcement. Should bionic systems be limited only to those medically impaired? Should bionics be used to enhance different sectors in our society? Are we destined to become “bionic humans’ by 2050? Consider research related to other bionic structures investigated today. Detail your answer. Remember to incorporate scientific principles and recent research/studies/examples (other than the text) in your discussion. This report should be between 500-600 words.