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The Biomechanical And Behavioral Significance Of The Neanderthal Femur, Kelli Hamm Tamvada
The Biomechanical And Behavioral Significance Of The Neanderthal Femur, Kelli Hamm Tamvada
Legacy Theses & Dissertations (2009 - 2024)
The Neanderthal (Homo neanderthalensis) femur is distinct from that of recent modern humans (Homo sapiens). Broadly speaking, the Neanderthal femur is more "robust", meaning that it appears to be biomechanically stronger, and it is more curved, which may enhance the predictability of the stresses and strains experienced by the bone. It has been hypothesized that the Neanderthal morphology is an adaptation to withstand elevated and repetitive loads associated with increased mobility. This study tests the mobility hypothesis using comparative and biomechanical methods. Specifically, this study sought to test the mobility hypothesis by a) determining whether or not a relationship exists …