Original scientific paper

Hominin Brain Evolution – New Century, New Directions

Dean Falk

Abstract

The study of hominin brain evolution focuses on the interiors of fossilized braincases.
Applications of recent three-dimensional computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI) techniques for visualizing and measuring »virtual endocasts«
from braincases in combination with advances in computer graphics and software for
acquiring relevant data are transforming the way in which fossil skulls are analyzed,
and improving the quality of paleoneurological investigations. Although CT imaging is
preferred for fossil skulls, a novel method that combines high-resolution MRI of physical
endocasts, electronic reconstruction of their missing parts, and warping of the resulting
virtual endocasts is currently being developed and has great potential for future
studies of hominin brain evolution. Applications of CT and MR techniques have already
resulted in surprising new findings, which are briefly outlined. Exciting revelations
about hominin brain evolution are expected as the 21st century unfolds.

Keywords

3D-CT; brain evolution; endocasts; fossils; hominins; MRI

Hrčak ID:

27986

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/27986

Publication date:

28.12.2004.

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