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Last common ancestor, no matter its feet, could have been a vertical climber

A study from Ohio State University found that sooty mangabey monkeys, with feet similar to those of humans, can climb vertical tree trunks with ease. The research suggests that the last common ancestor of humans and chimpanzees could have been a vertical climber, challenging existing theories about foot structure and forest environment...

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2026

Mantis-leg-inspired smart insole integrating closed-loop power supply for advanced wearable gait diagnostics

A biomimetic smart insole system integrates high-resolution sensing, autonomous energy supply, and AI-assisted gait diagnosis to monitor lower limb function and disease progression. The system achieves ultra-low detection limits and maintains mechanical stability, addressing existing bottlenecks in wearable gait monitoring.

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeNews article·DateMar 19, 2026

Sniffing out the cause of keratoderma-associated foot odor

Researchers at Kobe University have identified a specific bacterial strain, Staphylococcus epidermidis and Corynebacterium tuberculostearicum, as the primary causes of foot odor in Nagashima-type palmoplantar keratosis. Topical application of benzoyl peroxide reduces odor by decreasing C. tuberculostearicum levels.

SourceKobe University·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 22, 2026

A modified Delphi consensus of the Youth Fitness International Test (YFIT) battery

Researchers from the University of Granada and the Public Health Agency of Canada identified the most important physical fitness tests for children and adolescents, with a degree of scientific agreement exceeding 85%. The top tests include the 20-meter shuttle run test, handgrip strength test, standing long jump test, and body mass index.

SourceJournal of Sport and Health Science·JournalJournal of Sport and Health Science·TypeSurvey·DateDec 17, 2024

Pterosaurs needed feet on the ground to become giants

A University of Leicester study has found that the ability to walk efficiently on the ground played a crucial role in determining how large pterosaurs could grow. Early pterosaurs were adapted for climbing, but later species developed changes to their hands and feet that allowed them to thrive on land, leading to some becoming gigantic.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 4, 2024

Large theropods thrived near South Pole, Australian tracks show

A discovery of 18 theropod tracks and four ornithopod tracks in the Wonthaggi Formation reveals that large carnivores roamed polar environments, feeding on prey like smaller dinosaurs, fish, and turtles. The finds confirm that a variety of dinosaurs lived and walked on the ground where their bones were found.

SourceEmory University·JournalAlcheringa An Australasian Journal of Palaeontology·TypeObservational study·DateSep 9, 2024

Humans evolved to walk with an extra spring in our step

A global team of scientists found that the recoil of a flexible human foot arch repositions the ankle upright for more effective walking and running. This discovery could help doctors improve treatments for present-day patients' foot problems, while also suggesting therapeutic avenues for people with rigid arches due to injury or illness.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 30, 2023

3D-printed insoles measure sole pressure directly in the shoe

A new invention by ETH Zurich researchers uses 3D printing to create customized insoles with integrated pressure sensors that can measure foot pressure during various activities. This allows for more accurate and efficient creation of custom insoles, potentially improving athletic performance and treating musculoskeletal pain.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 15, 2023

”No pain, no gain” approach improves walking ability with peripheral artery disease

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that walking for exercise at a pace that induces leg pain or discomfort improves walking ability among people with peripheral artery disease. The study involved 264 participants who walked at home at either a comfortable pace or a pace that induced leg symptom...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJul 27, 2022

Amputation rates higher for people with PAD who are poor or Black; other health gaps noted in special issue

A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that people with peripheral artery disease (PAD) living in poor or Black metropolitan areas have higher amputation rates. The analysis also noted significant disparities in healthcare access and quality among different racial and socioeconomic groups.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateAug 25, 2021

Surprising spider hair discovery may inspire stronger adhesives

A new study in Frontiers in Mechanical Engineering found that the hairs on spider legs exhibit unique adhesive properties, with each hair showing different strengths and weaknesses on various surfaces. The researchers believe this diversity may be key to how spiders can climb diverse surfaces.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Mechanical Engineering·DateJun 18, 2021

Using spatial distance strategically with luxury and popular product displays

Researchers found that maintaining a distance between products and consumers boosts the perceived value of luxury items, while proximity increases the perceived sincerity of popular products. Marketers can leverage visual cues to enhance value and increase consumer willingness to pay by strategically matching distance with brand image.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateApr 23, 2021

With masks on, three feet is just as safe as six feet apart in Massachusetts schools

A statewide study in Massachusetts public schools found no significant difference in COVID-19 case rates between districts with 3-foot versus 6-foot physical distancing policies with universal mask mandates. The study suggests that lower physical distancing policies can be adopted without negatively impacting student or staff safety.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateMar 11, 2021