A 3D quantitative comparison of trapezium and trapezoid relative articular and nonarticular surface areas in modern humans and great apes

The Primitive Wrist of Homo floresiensis and Its Implications for Hominin Evolution

“…1). In contrast, other primates have a trapezoid that is more wedgeshaped with a narrow palmar tip and a wide dorsal base (9, [13][14][15]. This difference between human and nonhuman primate trapezoid shape is concomitantly reflected by the shapes and articular configurations of the carpáis that articulate with the trapezoid, and all of these carpáis are derived in modem humans in comparison to those in other primates (Figs.…”

“…1, bottom row). We quantified these shape differences using three-dimensional (3D) methods measuring the relative areas and angles of carpal articular surfaces (13,14,18,23). Multivariate statistical analysis of these data distinguishes modem humans and Neandertals from the great apes, Papio, and LBl (Fig.…”

Polar Histograms of Curvature for Quantifying Skeletal Joint Shape and Congruence

“…Studies in evolutionary biology have continually sought to discern the morphological differences that have led to functional differences among taxa [1,2]. Similarly, differences in articular shape and congruence within species may grant insight into pathological processes such as OA [3][4][5][6][7]-a progressive disease of articular cartilage and bone [8][9][10][11] whose underlying pathoetiology is believed to be mediated by altered joint mechanics [12][13][14].…”

Laser Scanning: 3D Analysis of Biological Surfaces

“…Laser scanners are specifically used to acquire 3D models that contain surface information only, with no information about the internal properties of the object (Bernardini and Rushmeier 2002;Kappelman 1998;Zollikofer and Ponce de Leon 2005). Therefore, laser scanners should be used when the data of interest relate to the surfaces or external shape properties of an object (e.g., Ungar 2004;Dennis et al 2004;Tocheri et al 2003Tocheri et al , 2005Tocheri et al , 2007. While it is obvious that if the data of interest relate to the trabecular structure of bone then laser scanning is not the appropriate 3D acquisition method, there are other scenarios that are less obvious that deserve attention.…”

“…In reality, however, it is extremely challenging, involving constant problem-solving, troubleshooting, and creative and critical thinking. Since 2001, this particular type of imaging technology has formed an integral part of my research program (Tocheri 2007;Tocheri et al 2003Tocheri et al , 2005Tocheri et al , 2007. Over the years, I have given countless demonstrations to other interested students and researchers as well as general advice on how to incorporate laser scanning into their research.…”