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Updated: May 1, 2026

A Morphometric and Cellular Analysis Method for the Murine Mandibular Condyle
Published on: January 11, 2018
Brief communication: Developmental versus functional three-dimensional geometric morphometric-based modularity of the
Julia Arias-Martorell1, Josep Maria Potau, Gaëlle Bello-Hellegouarch
1Anthropology Unit, Animal Biology Department, University of Barcelona, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
The proximal humerus develops with distinct regions for shoulder movement and rotator cuff muscle attachment. While generally integrated, a slight modularity suggests functional divisions between the articular surface and tubercles.
Area of Science:
- Human anatomy
- Developmental biology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- The proximal humerus develops from secondary ossification centers.
- A functional division is proposed between the articular surface (range of motion) and tubercles (rotator cuff insertion).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate developmental and functional modularity in the proximal humerus.
- To test hypothesized divisions between the articular surface and tubercles.
Main Methods:
- Employed three-dimensional geometric morphometrics.
- Applied the RV coefficient of Escoufier to assess modularity.
Main Results:
- The proximal humerus appears to be a generally integrated structure.
- A weak signal for modular configuration was detected.
- Slightly stronger support for modularity was found between the articular surface and tubercles.
Conclusions:
- The proximal humerus exhibits overall integration but shows weak evidence of modularity.
- Findings suggest potential functional divisions within the proximal humerus epiphysis.
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