Space research gets earthly publication

OAKBROOK, Ill., Nov. 8 (UPI) -- The journal Radiology published the first medical research paper Monday submitted from the International Space Station.

The report documents the first ultrasound examination of the shoulder performed under the microgravity conditions of space flight.

Members of Expedition 9 crew aboard the ISS completed the study as part of the Advanced Diagnostic Ultrasound in Microgravity experiment.

"It is with great pleasure that we offer to the journal Radiology the first paper ever submitted from the ISS," said the study's lead author, E. Michael Fincke.

The experiment is being conducted to determine the accuracy of ultrasound in novel clinical conditions, to assess feasibility of ultrasound for monitoring in-flight musculoskeletal changes in crewmembers and to determine optimal training methods, including the use of remote guidance.

While some aspects of the experiment are unique to space flight, Fincke believes the results are relevant to medical care on the ground.