1
|
Cebeiro A, Key A. Captive bonobos (Pan paniscus) apply precision grips when using flaked stone tools. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2024; 183:e24759. [PMID: 37218536 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Current evidence suggests that flaked stone tool technologies did not emerge until ~3.3-2.6 million-years-ago (Ma). It is often hypothesized that early hominin (principally Ardipithecus and early Australopithecus) manual anatomy may have prevented an earlier emergence, as the forceful precision grips essential to flake tool-use may have been ineffectively performed by these species. Marzke, Marchant, McGrew, and Reece (2015) observed potentially forceful pad-to-side precision grips being recruited by wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) during feeding behaviors, indicating that Pan-like manual anatomy, and therefore potentially early hominin anatomy, may be capable of effectively securing flake stone tools during their use. MATERIALS AND METHODS Here, we report on the grips recruited by four captive, human-trained, bonobos (Pan paniscus) during the use of stone and organic tools, including flake stone tools during cutting behaviors. RESULTS It is revealed that pad-to-side precision grips are frequently recruited by these bonobos when securing stone flakes during cutting actions. In some instances, high forces could have been resisted and applied by the thumb and fingers. DISCUSSION While our analyzes are preliminary and limited to captive individuals, and Pan is not suggested to secure flakes with the same efficacy as Homo or Australopithecus, it points to early hominins potentially being able to perform the precision grips required to use flake stone tools. In turn, the ability to gain tangible benefits from the effective use of flake tools (i.e., gain energetic returns from processing food resources) may have been - at least anatomically - possible in early Australopithecus and other pre-Early Stone Age hominin species. In turn, hominin manual anatomy may not be a leading restriction on the emergence of the earliest stone tool technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adela Cebeiro
- Department of Anthropology, New York University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Alastair Key
- Department of Archaeology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Bardo A, Dunmore CJ, Cornette R, Kivell TL. Morphological integration and shape covariation between the trapezium and first metacarpal among extant hominids. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2024; 183:e24800. [PMID: 37377134 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The shape of the trapezium and first metacarpal (Mc1) markedly influence thumb mobility, strength, and the manual abilities of extant hominids. Previous research has typically focused solely on trapezium-Mc1 joint shape. Here we investigate how morphological integration and shape covariation between the entire trapezium (articular and non-articular surfaces) and the entire Mc1 reflect known differences in thumb use in extant hominids. MATERIALS AND METHODS We analyzed shape covariation in associated trapezia and Mc1s across a large, diverse sample of Homo sapiens (n = 40 individuals) and other extant hominids (Pan troglodytes, n = 16; Pan paniscus, n = 13; Gorilla gorilla gorilla, n = 27; Gorilla beringei, n = 6; Pongo pygmaeus, n = 14; Pongo abelii, n = 9) using a 3D geometric morphometric approach. We tested for interspecific significant differences in degree of morphological integration and patterns of shape covariation between the entire trapezium and Mc1, as well as within the trapezium-Mc1 joint specifically. RESULTS Significant morphological integration was only found in the trapezium-Mc1 joint of H. sapiens and G. g. gorilla. Each genus showed a specific pattern of shape covariation between the entire trapezium and Mc1 that was consistent with different intercarpal and carpometacarpal joint postures. DISCUSSION Our results are consistent with known differences in habitual thumb use, including a more abducted thumb during forceful precision grips in H. sapiens and a more adducted thumb in other hominids used for diverse grips. These results will help to infer thumb use in fossil hominins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ameline Bardo
- Département Homme et Environnement, UMR 7194 - HNHP, CNRS-MNHN, Musée de l'Homme, Paris, France
- Skeletal Biology Research Centre, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
| | - Christopher J Dunmore
- Skeletal Biology Research Centre, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
| | - Raphaël Cornette
- Institute of Systematic, Evolution, Biodiversity (ISYEB), UMR 7205-CNRS/MNHN/UPMC/EPHE, National Museum of Natural History, Paris, France
| | - Tracy L Kivell
- Skeletal Biology Research Centre, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
- Department of Human Origins, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kralick AE, Canington SL, Eller AR, McGrath K. Specimens as individuals: Four interventions and recommendations for great ape skeletal collections research and curation. Evol Anthropol 2023; 32:336-355. [PMID: 37750542 DOI: 10.1002/evan.22002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Extensive discourse surrounds the ethics of human skeletal research and curation, but there has yet to be a similar discussion of the treatment of great ape skeletal remains, despite the clear interest in their ethical treatment when alive. Here we trace the history of apes who were killed and collected for natural history museums during the early 20th century and showcase how the guiding research questions of the colonial era continue to influence scholarship. We discuss best practices for improving industry and academic standards of research on, and the curation of, ape remains. The suggested interventions involve restoring individual identity and narrative to great apes while engaging with contextual reflexivity and decolonial theory. The resulting recommendations include contextualizing the individual, piecing individuals back together, challenging/questioning the captive-wild dichotomy, and collaborative international conversations. Our objective is to encourage a conversation regarding ethical and theoretical considerations in great ape skeletal remains research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra E Kralick
- Department of Anthropology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Stephanie L Canington
- Center for Functional Anatomy and Evolution, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Basic and Translational Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Andrea R Eller
- Department of Anthropology, Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Kate McGrath
- Department of Anthropology, SUNY Oneonta, Oneonta, New York, USA
- Center for the Advanced Study of Human Paleobiology, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
van Leeuwen T, Vanneste M, D'Agostino P, Vereecke EE. Trapeziometacarpal joint mobility in gibbons (fam. Hylobatidae) and rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta). AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2022; 177:708-718. [PMID: 36787653 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study is to investigate the differences in 3D kinematics of the trapeziometacarpal (TMC) joint between gibbons (fam. Hylobatidae) and macaques (Macaca mulatta), two non-human primate groups with a distinct locomotor behavior. Gibbons are highly arboreal species, while macaques are quadrupeds. Here, we investigate the mobility and structural constraints of the TMC joint in both these primates and evaluate the hypothesis that differences in locomotor mode are reflected in joint structure and function. MATERIALS AND METHODS We have developed an innovative software suite allowing for the quantification of in situ 3D kinematics based on medical imaging of the primate TMC joint using a unique sample of eight gibbons and seven macaques. These analyses are further supported by detailed dissection of the surrounding ligaments. RESULTS The data demonstrate distinct differences in TMC joint mobility between gibbons and macaques, with wide ranges of motion in the gibbon TMC joint and restricted movement in macaques. Furthermore, the dissections show little dissimilarity in ligament anatomy that could be associated with the differences in TMC joint capabilities. CONCLUSION We conclude that gibbons possess a highly mobile TMC joint and the ball-and-socket morphology allows for large ranges of motion. This type of morphology, however, does not offer much inherent stabilization. Lack of structural joint reinforcement suggests that gibbons may have difficulty in performing any type of power grasp with high loads. Macaques, on the other hand, are shown to have a considerably reinforced TMC joint, which is likely related to the habitual loading of the thumb during locomotion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timo van Leeuwen
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences Group, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maarten Vanneste
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences Group, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Priscilla D'Agostino
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences Group, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Louise Medical Center, Hand Clinic, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Evie E Vereecke
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences Group, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bucchi A, Luengo J, Del Bove A, Lorenzo C. Insertion sites in manual proximal phalanges of African apes and modern humans. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2021; 173:556-567. [PMID: 33460049 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The primary aim of this study was to describe the insertion sites of the ligaments holding the flexor digitorum profundus and superficialis muscles (flexor ridges) in proximal phalanges 2-5 of African apes and modern humans. To interpret differences in flexor ridge size based on general behavioral differences among taxa. MATERIALS AND METHODS We analyzed 3D models of manual proximal phalanges 2-5 from 29 gorillas (Gorilla beringei and Gorilla gorilla), 30 chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) and 36 recent modern humans. Flexor ridges (mm2) were compared within and across genera. RESULTS Gorillas and chimpanzees had larger flexor ridges for phalanges 2-4 than humans and this difference subsists when controlling for body size. Each genus had a unique insertion size pattern across the digits, with the most heterogeneous pattern found in chimpanzees, followed by humans, and lastly gorillas. These patterns corresponded strongly to the differences in the size of the phalanges within each genus, except for phalanx 5 in humans, which had a larger flexor ridge than expected. DISCUSSION When comparing these genera, the flexor ridges signal differences between taxa that use their hands for manipulation and locomotion (gorillas and chimpanzees) and taxa that use them exclusively for manipulation (humans). This functional signal was also apparent in the PP5 of humans, whose larger FR may be indicating the high recruitment of this digit during forceful precision grip characteristic of humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Bucchi
- Departament d'Història i Història de l'Art, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 35 Avinguda de Catalunya, Tarragona, Spain.,Institut Català de Paleoecologia Humana i Evolució Social (IPHES), 4 Zona Educacional, Campus Sescelades URV (Edifici W3), Tarragona, Spain
| | - Javier Luengo
- Departament d'Història i Història de l'Art, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 35 Avinguda de Catalunya, Tarragona, Spain.,Institut Català de Paleoecologia Humana i Evolució Social (IPHES), 4 Zona Educacional, Campus Sescelades URV (Edifici W3), Tarragona, Spain
| | - Antonietta Del Bove
- Departament d'Història i Història de l'Art, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 35 Avinguda de Catalunya, Tarragona, Spain.,Institut Català de Paleoecologia Humana i Evolució Social (IPHES), 4 Zona Educacional, Campus Sescelades URV (Edifici W3), Tarragona, Spain
| | - Carlos Lorenzo
- Departament d'Història i Història de l'Art, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 35 Avinguda de Catalunya, Tarragona, Spain.,Institut Català de Paleoecologia Humana i Evolució Social (IPHES), 4 Zona Educacional, Campus Sescelades URV (Edifici W3), Tarragona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hagihara Y. Dorso-palmar elongation of the diaphysis of the third metacarpal bone in prehistoric Jomon people. Anat Sci Int 2021. [PMID: 32920735 DOI: 10.1007/s12565−020−00570−y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated cross-sectional morphological differences in the diaphysis of the third metacarpal bone (MC3) between prehistoric Jomon hunter-gatherers and modern Japanese people. Overall, 179 skeletal remains of 119 individuals (73 men and 46 women) from the Middle-to-Final Jomon period (3500 BC-500 BC) and 60 modern Japanese people (35 men and 25 women) were included in the analysis. Analyses were performed at the mid-shaft of the MC3 using linear measurement, elliptic Fourier analysis, and cross-sectional geometric properties. The standardized polar section modulus (ZpSTD) indicated sexual differences in both populations. The right MC3 was generally stronger than the left side. There was no populational difference in the ZpSTD in both sexes. In both men and women, the cross-sectional shape of the MC3 was relatively larger in the dorso-palmar direction than in the radioulnar direction in the Jomon population compared to the modern Japanese population. Sexual differences in cross-sectional shape were recognized only in the Jomon population, with the dorso-palmar elongation being greater in Jomon men than in women (particularly when comparing the left MC3). There was a significant side difference in the diaphyseal shape among Jomon women, with the right MC3 being relatively larger in the dorso-palmar direction. These findings were consistent, although skeletal remains of the Jomon population were excavated from different regions. Differences in the diaphyseal cross-sectional shape between populations suggest differences in habitual loading on MC3 associated with differences in subsistence behavior. Furthermore, differences in diaphyseal shape and strength between Jomon men and women suggest sexual division of labor, with men performing bimanual tasks and women performing unimanual tasks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasuo Hagihara
- Department of Medical Technology, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, 1398 Shimami-cho, Kita-ku, Niigata, Niigata, 950-3198, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hagihara Y. Dorso-palmar elongation of the diaphysis of the third metacarpal bone in prehistoric Jomon people. Anat Sci Int 2020; 96:119-131. [PMID: 32920735 DOI: 10.1007/s12565-020-00570-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated cross-sectional morphological differences in the diaphysis of the third metacarpal bone (MC3) between prehistoric Jomon hunter-gatherers and modern Japanese people. Overall, 179 skeletal remains of 119 individuals (73 men and 46 women) from the Middle-to-Final Jomon period (3500 BC-500 BC) and 60 modern Japanese people (35 men and 25 women) were included in the analysis. Analyses were performed at the mid-shaft of the MC3 using linear measurement, elliptic Fourier analysis, and cross-sectional geometric properties. The standardized polar section modulus (ZpSTD) indicated sexual differences in both populations. The right MC3 was generally stronger than the left side. There was no populational difference in the ZpSTD in both sexes. In both men and women, the cross-sectional shape of the MC3 was relatively larger in the dorso-palmar direction than in the radioulnar direction in the Jomon population compared to the modern Japanese population. Sexual differences in cross-sectional shape were recognized only in the Jomon population, with the dorso-palmar elongation being greater in Jomon men than in women (particularly when comparing the left MC3). There was a significant side difference in the diaphyseal shape among Jomon women, with the right MC3 being relatively larger in the dorso-palmar direction. These findings were consistent, although skeletal remains of the Jomon population were excavated from different regions. Differences in the diaphyseal cross-sectional shape between populations suggest differences in habitual loading on MC3 associated with differences in subsistence behavior. Furthermore, differences in diaphyseal shape and strength between Jomon men and women suggest sexual division of labor, with men performing bimanual tasks and women performing unimanual tasks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasuo Hagihara
- Department of Medical Technology, Niigata University of Health and Welfare, 1398 Shimami-cho, Kita-ku, Niigata, Niigata, 950-3198, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Dunmore CJ, Bardo A, Skinner MM, Kivell TL. Trabecular variation in the first metacarpal and manipulation in hominids. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2019; 171:219-241. [PMID: 31762017 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.23974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The dexterity of fossil hominins is often inferred by assessing the comparative manual anatomy and behaviors of extant hominids, with a focus on the thumb. The aim of this study is to test whether trabecular structure is consistent with what is currently known about habitually loaded thumb postures across extant hominids. MATERIALS AND METHODS We analyze first metacarpal (Mc1) subarticular trabecular architecture in humans (Homo sapiens, n = 10), bonobos (Pan paniscus, n = 10), chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes, n = 11), as well as for the first time, gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla, n = 10) and orangutans (Pongo sp., n = 1, Pongo abelii, n = 3 and Pongo pygmaeus, n = 5). Using a combination of subarticular and whole-epiphysis approaches, we test for significant differences in relative trabecular bone volume (RBV/TV) and degree of anisotropy (DA) between species. RESULTS Humans have significantly greater RBV/TV on the radiopalmar aspects of both the proximal and distal Mc1 subarticular surfaces and greater DA throughout the Mc1 head than other hominids. Nonhuman great apes have greatest RBV/TV on the ulnar aspect of the Mc1 head and the palmar aspect of the Mc1 base. Gorillas possessed significantly lower DA in the Mc1 head than any other taxon in our sample. DISCUSSION These results are consistent with abduction of the thumb during forceful "pad-to-pad" precision grips in humans and, in nonhuman great apes, a habitually adducted thumb that is typically used in precision and power grips. This comparative context will help infer habitual manipulative and locomotor grips in fossil hominins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Dunmore
- Skeletal Biology Research Centre, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Ameline Bardo
- Skeletal Biology Research Centre, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Matthew M Skinner
- Skeletal Biology Research Centre, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK.,Department of Human Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Tracy L Kivell
- Skeletal Biology Research Centre, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK.,Department of Human Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Rusli WMR, Kedgley AE. Statistical shape modelling of the first carpometacarpal joint reveals high variation in morphology. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2019; 19:1203-1210. [PMID: 31754950 PMCID: PMC7423863 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-019-01257-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The first carpometacarpal (CMC) joint, located at the base of the thumb and formed by the junction between the first metacarpal and trapezium, is a common site for osteoarthritis of the hand. The shape of both the first metacarpal and trapezium contributes to the intrinsic bony stability of the joint, and variability in the morphology of both these bones can affect the joint’s function. The objectives of this study were to quantify the morphological variation in the complete metacarpal and trapezium and determine any correlation between anatomical features of these two components of the first CMC joint. A multi-object statistical shape modelling pipeline, consisting of scaling, hierarchical rigid registration, non-rigid registration and projection pursuit principal component analysis, was implemented. Four anatomical measures were quantified from the shape model, namely the first metacarpal articular tilt and torsion angles and the trapezium length and width. Variations in the first metacarpal articular tilt angle (− 6.3° < θ < 12.3°) and trapezium width (10.28 mm < \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
\usepackage{amsmath}
\usepackage{wasysym}
\usepackage{amsfonts}
\usepackage{amssymb}
\usepackage{amsbsy}
\usepackage{mathrsfs}
\usepackage{upgreek}
\setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt}
\begin{document}$${\fancyscript{w}}$$\end{document}w < 11.13 mm) were identified in the first principal component. In the second principal component, variations in the first metacarpal torsion angle (0.2° < α < 14.2°), first metacarpal articular tilt angle (1.0° < θ < 6.4°) and trapezium length (12.25 mm < \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
\usepackage{amsmath}
\usepackage{wasysym}
\usepackage{amsfonts}
\usepackage{amssymb}
\usepackage{amsbsy}
\usepackage{mathrsfs}
\usepackage{upgreek}
\setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt}
\begin{document}$$\text{ }\ell$$\end{document}ℓ < 17.33 mm) were determined. Due to their implications for joint stability, the first metacarpal articular tilt angle and trapezium width may be important anatomical features which could be used to advance early detection and treatment of first CMC joint osteoarthritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wan M R Rusli
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Angela E Kedgley
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Dunmore CJ, Kivell TL, Bardo A, Skinner MM. Metacarpal trabecular bone varies with distinct hand-positions used in hominid locomotion. J Anat 2019; 235:45-66. [PMID: 31099419 PMCID: PMC6580057 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Trabecular bone remodels during life in response to loading and thus should, at least in part, reflect potential variation in the magnitude, frequency and direction of joint loading across different hominid species. Here we analyse the trabecular structure across all non-pollical metacarpal distal heads (Mc2-5) in extant great apes, expanding on previous volume of interest and whole-epiphysis analyses that have largely focused on only the first or third metacarpal. Specifically, we employ both a univariate statistical mapping and a multivariate approach to test for both inter-ray and interspecific differences in relative trabecular bone volume fraction (RBV/TV) and degree of anisotropy (DA) in Mc2-5 subchondral trabecular bone. Results demonstrate that whereas DA values only separate Pongo from African apes (Pan troglodytes, Pan paniscus, Gorilla gorilla), RBV/TV distribution varies with the predicted loading of the metacarpophalangeal (McP) joints during locomotor behaviours in each species. Gorilla exhibits a relatively dorsal distribution of RBV/TV consistent with habitual hyper-extension of the McP joints during knuckle-walking, whereas Pongo has a palmar distribution consistent with flexed McP joints used to grasp arboreal substrates. Both Pan species possess a disto-dorsal distribution of RBV/TV, compatible with multiple hand postures associated with a more varied locomotor regime. Further inter-ray comparisons reveal RBV/TV patterns consistent with varied knuckle-walking postures in Pan species in contrast to higher RBV/TV values toward the midline of the hand in Mc2 and Mc5 of Gorilla, consistent with habitual palm-back knuckle-walking. These patterns of trabecular bone distribution and structure reflect different behavioural signals that could be useful for determining the behaviours of fossil hominins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. Dunmore
- Skeletal Biology Research CentreSchool of Anthropology and ConservationUniversity of KentCanterburyUK
| | - Tracy L. Kivell
- Skeletal Biology Research CentreSchool of Anthropology and ConservationUniversity of KentCanterburyUK
- Department of Human EvolutionMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary AnthropologyLeipzigGermany
| | - Ameline Bardo
- Skeletal Biology Research CentreSchool of Anthropology and ConservationUniversity of KentCanterburyUK
| | - Matthew M. Skinner
- Skeletal Biology Research CentreSchool of Anthropology and ConservationUniversity of KentCanterburyUK
- Department of Human EvolutionMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary AnthropologyLeipzigGermany
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Three-dimensional geometric morphometric analysis of the first metacarpal distal articular surface in humans, great apes and fossil hominins. J Hum Evol 2019; 132:119-136. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jhevol.2019.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
12
|
Rein TR. A Geometric Morphometric Examination of Hominoid Third Metacarpal Shape and Its Implications for Inferring the Precursor to Terrestrial Bipedalism. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2018; 302:983-998. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.23985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2016] [Revised: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas R. Rein
- Department of Anthropology Central Connecticut State University New Britain Connecticut
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lu SC, Vereecke EE, Synek A, Pahr DH, Kivell TL. A novel experimental design for the measurement of metacarpal bone loading and deformation and fingertip force. PeerJ 2018; 6:e5480. [PMID: 30221084 PMCID: PMC6138040 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.5480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Musculoskeletal and finite element modelling are often used to predict joint loading and bone strength within the human hand, but there is a lack of in vitro evidence of the force and strain experienced by hand bones. Methods This study presents a novel experimental setup that allows the positioning of a cadaveric digit in a variety of postures with the measurement of force and strain experienced by the third metacarpal. The setup allows for the measurement of fingertip force as well. We tested this experimental setup using three cadaveric human third digits in which the flexor tendons were loaded in two tendon pathways: (1) parallel to the metacarpal bone shaft, with bowstringing; (2) a semi-physiological condition in which the tendons were positioned closer to the bone shaft. Results There is substantial variation in metacarpal net force, metacarpal strain and fingertip force between the two tendon pathways. The net force acting on the metacarpal bone is oriented palmarly in the parallel tendon condition, causing tension along the dorsum of the metacarpal shaft, while the force increases and is oriented dorsally in the semi-physiological condition, causing compression of the dorsal metacarpal shaft. Fingertip force is also greater in the semi-physiological condition, implying a more efficient grip function. Inter-individual variation is observed in the radioulnar orientation of the force experienced by the metacarpal bone, the fingertip force, and the strain patterns on the metacarpal shaft. Conclusion This study demonstrates a new method for measuring force and strain experienced by the metacarpal, and fingertip force in cadaveric digits that can, in turn, inform computation models. Inter-individual variation in loads experienced by the third digit suggest that there are differences in joint contact and/or internal bone structure across individuals that are important to consider in clinical and evolutionary contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Szu-Ching Lu
- Animal Postcranial Evolution Lab, Skeletal Biology Research Centre, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Evie E Vereecke
- Department of Development and Regeneration, University of Leuven, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Alexander Synek
- Institute of Lightweight Design and Structural Biomechanics, Vienna University of Technology, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dieter H Pahr
- Institute of Lightweight Design and Structural Biomechanics, Vienna University of Technology, Vienna, Austria.,Department of Anatomy and Biomechanics, Karl Landsteiner Private University of Health Sciences, Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Tracy L Kivell
- Animal Postcranial Evolution Lab, Skeletal Biology Research Centre, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK.,Department of Human Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Stephens NB, Kivell TL, Pahr DH, Hublin JJ, Skinner MM. Trabecular bone patterning across the human hand. J Hum Evol 2018; 123:1-23. [PMID: 30072187 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhevol.2018.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hand bone morphology is regularly used to link particular hominin species with behaviors relevant to cognitive/technological progress. Debates about the functional significance of differing hominin hand bone morphologies tend to rely on establishing phylogenetic relationships and/or inferring behavior from epigenetic variation arising from mechanical loading and adaptive bone modeling. Most research focuses on variation in cortical bone structure, but additional information about hand function may be provided through the analysis of internal trabecular structure. While primate hand bone trabecular structure is known to vary in ways that are consistent with expected joint loading differences during manipulation and locomotion, no study exists that has documented this variation across the numerous bones of the hand. We quantify the trabecular structure in 22 bones of the human hand (early/extant modern Homo sapiens) and compare structural variation between two groups associated with post-agricultural/industrial (post-Neolithic) and foraging/hunter-gatherer (forager) subsistence strategies. We (1) establish trabecular bone volume fraction (BV/TV), modulus (E), degree of anisotropy (DA), mean trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) and spacing (Tb.Sp); (2) visualize the average distribution of site-specific BV/TV for each bone; and (3) examine if the variation in trabecular structure is consistent with expected joint loading differences among the regions of the hand and between the groups. Results indicate similar distributions of trabecular bone in both groups, with those of the forager sample presenting higher BV/TV, E, and lower DA, suggesting greater and more variable loading during manipulation. We find indications of higher loading along the ulnar side of the forager sample hand, with high site-specific BV/TV distributions among the carpals that are suggestive of high loading while the wrist moves through the 'dart-thrower's' motion. These results support the use of trabecular structure to infer behavior and have direct implications for refining our understanding of human hand evolution and fossil hominin hand use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas B Stephens
- Department of Human Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Deutscher Platz 6, 04103 Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Tracy L Kivell
- Skeletal Biology Research Centre, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NZ, United Kingdom; Department of Human Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Deutscher Platz 6, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Dieter H Pahr
- Institute for Lightweight Design and Structural Biomechanics, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9, A-1060 Vienna, Austria
| | - Jean-Jacques Hublin
- Department of Human Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Deutscher Platz 6, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Matthew M Skinner
- Skeletal Biology Research Centre, School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NZ, United Kingdom; Department of Human Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Deutscher Platz 6, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Hominin hand bone fossils from Sterkfontein Caves, South Africa (1998–2003 excavations). J Hum Evol 2018; 118:89-102. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jhevol.2018.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Revised: 02/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
16
|
Garvin HM, Elliott MC, Delezene LK, Hawks J, Churchill SE, Berger LR, Holliday TW. Body size, brain size, and sexual dimorphism in Homo naledi from the Dinaledi Chamber. J Hum Evol 2017; 111:119-138. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jhevol.2017.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2016] [Revised: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
|
17
|
Ibáñez-Gimeno P, Manyosa J, Galtés I, Jordana X, Moyà-Solà S, Malgosa A. Forearm pronation efficiency in A.L. 288-1 (Australopithecus afarensis) and MH2 (Australopithecus sediba): Insights into their locomotor and manipulative habits. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2017; 164:788-800. [PMID: 28949001 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.23319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Revised: 06/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The locomotor and manipulative abilities of australopithecines are highly debated in the paleoanthropological context. Australopithecus afarensis and Australopithecus sediba likely engaged in arboreal locomotion and, especially the latter, in certain activities implying manipulation. Nevertheless, their degree of arboreality and the relevance of their manipulative skills remain unclear. Here we calculate the pronation efficiency of the forearm (Erot ) in these taxa to explore their arboreal and manipulative capabilities using a biomechanical approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS Three-dimensional humeral images and upper limb measurements of A.L. 288-1 (Au. afarensis) and MH2 (Au. sediba) were used to calculate Erot using a previously described biomechanical model. RESULTS Maximal Erot in elbow flexion occurs in a rather supinated position of the forearm in Au. afarensis, similarly to Pan troglodytes. In elbow extension, maximal Erot in this fossil taxon occurs in the same forearm position as in Pongo spp. In Au. sediba the forearm positions where Erot is maximal are largely coincident with those for Hylobatidae. CONCLUSIONS The pattern in Au. afarensis suggests relevant arboreal capabilities, which would include vertical climbing, although it is suggestive of poorer manipulative skills than in modern humans. The similarity between Au. sediba and Hylobatidae is difficult to interpret, but the differences between Au. sediba and Au. afarensis suggest that the capacity to rotate the forearm followed different evolutionary processes in these australopithecine species. Although functional inferences from the upper limb are complex, the observed differences between both taxa point to the existence of two distinct anatomical models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pere Ibáñez-Gimeno
- Unitat d'Antropologia Biològica, Departament de Biologia Animal, Biologia Vegetal i Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra Barcelona, Catalonia 08193, Spain.,PAVE Research Group, Department of Archaeology and Anthropology, University of Cambridge, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2 3DX, United Kingdom.,McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3ER, United Kingdom
| | - Joan Manyosa
- Unitat de Biofísica, Departament de Bioquímica i de Biologia Molecular, and Centre d'Estudis en Biofísica, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra Barcelona, Catalonia 08193, Spain
| | - Ignasi Galtés
- Unitat d'Antropologia Forense, Institut de Medicina Legal de Catalunya, Ciutat de la Justícia, Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes 111, Edifici G, Barcelona, Catalonia 08075, Spain.,Unitat de Medicina Legal i Forense, Departament de Psiquiatria i de Medicina Legal, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra Barcelona, Catalonia 08193, Spain
| | - Xavier Jordana
- Unitat d'Antropologia Biològica, Departament de Biologia Animal, Biologia Vegetal i Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra Barcelona, Catalonia 08193, Spain.,Institut Català de Paleontologia Miquel Crusafont (ICP), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra Barcelona, Catalonia 08193, Spain
| | - Salvador Moyà-Solà
- ICREA at Institut Català de Paleontologia Miquel Crusafont (ICP), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra Barcelona, Catalonia 08193, Spain
| | - Assumpció Malgosa
- Unitat d'Antropologia Biològica, Departament de Biologia Animal, Biologia Vegetal i Ecologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra Barcelona, Catalonia 08193, Spain
| |
Collapse
|