FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who organizes and produces OUR BODY: The Universe Within?
Our Body: The Universe Within is produced by Studio 2 Promotions, Inc. and should not be confused with other traveling exhibitions, including Body Worlds or Bodies...The Exhibition, nor is it affiliated with either exhibition.
What is the OUR BODY: The Universe Within exhibition about?
The exhibition allows visitors to better understand human anatomy by providing a detailed tour through multiple systems of the human body.
Why use real human specimens instead of constructed models?
Unlike models that idealize the body through the eyes of an artist, the specimens in this exhibition show the body and its parts as they really are. For many years, idealized models have been used to teach about the body however, they do not allow for any variation in structure or pathologies - which is key in noting how unique each human body is. As medical students and individuals have less time for the study of anatomy, it is even more important to have these unique specimens to give them both a greater understanding of anatomy and some sense of the variation of the human organism.
What does polymer impregnation mean?
The unique method used to preserve the human specimens is a process in which the body's water and fat is replaced with reactive plastics. The polymer plastic is initially pliable, enabling the specimens to be placed in different "everyday" positions and then hardens after being infused. Organs are identical to their preservation state down to the microscopic level.
Which part of the anatomy is the most difficult to preserve?
The brain is the most difficult organ to preserve because it is primarily composed of lipids (fat) and water. During the process of polymer impregnation, the brain can shrink significantly during the dehydration stage. In order to maintain its original size and shape, the brain is dehydrated in a cold acetone.
What do the polymer impregnated bodies feel like?
The specimens feel dry to the touch and can be either rigid or flexible, depending on the mix of chemicals used. While visitors will be able to get very close to the specimens, as a rule, they are not allowed to touch them.
What is the appropriate age level for viewing OUR BODY: The Universe Within?
It depends on the individual however, teaching basic human anatomy and physiology are hallmarks in any child's education and can be enhanced and discussed in sort of a practicum setting with the aid of one of our
The exhibition can also offer a rare family experience as well and can be a wonderful opportunity to begin a discussion in a way textbooks cannot. Families, individuals, school groups, study groups, artists practicing the human form - all visitors can learn about the commonalities and complexities of the human body.
Where do the specimens originate from?
The scientific, educational exhibition was developed and provided by the Anatomical Sciences & Technologies Foundation in Hong Kong. The specimens in the exhibition were provided by various accredited Chinese universities, medical schools, medical institutions, research centers and laboratories to further the goals of the Anatomical Sciences & Technologies Foundation which are to promote educational and medical research of the human body.
Have the persons whose bodies have been donated consented to their use?
Acceptance of corpses by the Chinese medical schools (via donation by will or donation by the relatives), is the principle source of obtaining materials for medical anatomy and educational purposes. In China, all donors (or their immediate family members) are clearly told that the donated bodies will be used for medical research and educational purposes and are also guaranteed that all of their personal information will be treated as confidential.