Revisions to the CDC’s developmental milestone checklists removed crawling as a skill that babies pick up at a typical age. A biomedical engineer describes how more research may clarify its role.
Yizeng Li, Binghamton University, State University of New York
Counterintuitively, cells move faster in thicker fluids. New research on breast cancer cells explains why, and reveals the role that fluid viscosity plays in metastasis.
Thinking of trying barefoot running? We investigated a new strategy to switch from traditional shoe to barefoot running, and why barefoot running may work for some runners but not others.
How can they run and run and run for so long? What makes them so good at speedy changes of direction? Biomechanically, is there a certain body type perfect for football?
Heart disease can change the genetic structure of heart cells. Understanding the role that mechanical forces play in these changes could lead to improvements in artificial tissue design.
Fish fins are extremely flexible yet also strong. A special segmented fin design is the key to this useful combination of properties and could inspire new morphing materials.
Gymnasts need to carefully calibrate their leg muscles to gain optimum spring from the floor, springboard or beam. And their arms are crucial for balance and creating the right amount of rotation.
In track and field, it’s a common belief that middle lanes are the fastest. But according to the data, middle lanes aren’t better, and in the 200-meter sprint, outside lanes might even be faster.
From mythical beasts to extinct creatures, the pioneering special effects work of Ray Harryhausen inspired a generation of zoologists, palaeontologists and ecologists.
Executive Director of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science and Director of the Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, University of Wollongong