Muscle function during movement is more than a simple, linear transformation of neural
activity into force. The classic work loop technique has pioneered our understanding of …

Control theory arose from a need to control synthetic systems. From regulating steam
engines to tuning radios to devices capable of autonomous movement, it provided a formal …

Classical and modern ethological studies suggest that animal behavior is organized
hierarchically across timescales, such that longer-timescale behaviors are composed of …

Millisecond variations in spiking patterns can radically alter motor behavior, suggesting that
traditional rate-based theories of motor control require revision. The importance of spike …

Highlights•Neural computation is inherently closed-loop.•Recent advances afford the
experimental opening and closing of feedback loops.•Control theory facilitates comparative …

Insects with asynchronous flight muscles are believed to flap at the effective fundamental
frequency of their thorax–wing system. Flap** in this manner leverages the natural …

Determining the mechanical output of limb joints is critical for understanding the control of
complex motor behaviours such as walking. In the case of insect walking, the neural …

Centimetre-scale fliers must contend with the high power requirements of flap** flight.
Insects have elastic elements in their thoraxes which may reduce the inertial costs of their …

The work loop technique has provided key insights into in vivo muscle work and power
during steady locomotion. However, for many animals and muscles, ex vivo experiments are …

In this study, we propose a robust chemical plume tracing (CPT) algorithm for various
environments. We developed this algorithm based on the behavior of insects that have CPT …