Michael Berthaume (London South Bank University) shares with us work using finite element analysis and broader anthropological and engineering principles in most of his work. Looking at the effect of forces and loading strains on teeth and bone, Michael is able to understand the biomechanical capabilities and behaviors of diverse species of hominins and non-human primates.

We also discuss some of his applied work, designing biomedical devices for those in need of prosthetics and orthotics in northern Sri Lanka.

Michael has recently received a lot of press for a paper on the fabella as well. This sesamoid bone behind the knee has been found more commonly in human populations over the last 100 years. What environmental factors could be affecting human biology in such a way?

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Show notes

You can read the BBC story on the fabella, or watch the BBC Breakfast interview Michael did about his research here:

The AnthroEngineering Network can be found on Twitter and Facebook . You can follow Michael Berthaume on Twitter , and Michael Rivera on Twitter and Instagram as well.

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