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If you were floating in space, you would not only have to fear the reality of being tethered to a tin can of air: your skeleton would give you plenty of cause for concern. On Earth, gravity is the invisible force that constantly puts pressure on our bodies to reminds our bones, “Hey, you have…
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If I were to ask you how your arm works, specifically how your elbow flexes and extends, you could tell me that your muscles cause it to move. And you’re not wrong, they do. But how do they do it? What are they designed for? Physics has a lot to say about movement in our…
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Blood pressure is the force exerted on the walls of your arteries as your heart pushes blood through your body. It is measured in milimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and it appears as two numbers. The first number, systolic, occurs when the left side of the heart contracts and sends a rush of blood into…
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While all skeletons have similarities and differences, there are observable and measurable factors that can give us clues as to whom a skeleton might belong. This is especially important for crime scene investigators: forensic anthropologists are often among the first on the scene and are tasked with using any remains to help identify potential victims.…
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Your parents probably told you that you need to drink your milk if you want to grow up big and strong. While this statement has truth, it’s not the full story. Milk can provide a lot of the resources your body’s bones need to grow, but it’s not the only factor by a long shot.…
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All life on earth congregates around the nearest water source, whether it’s an oasis, wallow, river, ocean, or small creek. Wet regions promote lush plant growth which provides food for a wide array of animals. Humans are no different; our bodies are heavily dependent on water for their survival. Water has also proven to be…
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Have you ever jumped into a cold pool and felt every hair on your body stand up straight? It’s not just a reaction to the cold: have you ever gotten goosebumps when watching a scary movie? Did you wonder why? You may not have a need for them, but your ancestors did. When you get…
The Hominin Hiker 