Modern Paleopathology, The Study of Diagnostic Approach to Ancient Diseases, their Pathology and Epidemiology

Modern Paleopathology, The Study of Diagnostic Approach to Ancient Diseases, their Pathology and Epidemiology
Author: Bruce M. Rothschild
Publisher: Springer Nature
Total Pages: 873
Release: 2023-09-27
Genre: Science
ISBN: 3031286243

The study of paleopathology has two very different constituencies, the medical scientist and the zoologist/paleontologist/anthropologist. Their investigative procedures and professional jargon are different, sometimes to the point of mutual incomprehensibility. Paleontologists/anthropologists/zoologists have a limited data base for the characterization and interpretation of pathology. This must come from the human and veterinary medical experience. What, beyond intellectual satisfaction, can the health care community expect from this relationship? The past history of the appearance and dispersal of infectious disease and cancer is of considerable theoretical importance and leads to new insights on the nature and transmission of diseases that are otherwise ambiguous. The discovery of rheumatoid arthritis in pre-Columbian North America exemplifies insights gained. The current effort delineates osseous impact of disease (as manifest in clinical populations diagnosed in life), representation in the zoologic, paleontologic and anthropologic record, and assessment techniques that can be confidently applied. The chapters form “columns” that provide the foundation for scientific critical thinking. The actual integration of the information is in its application. Our purpose is to provide a data base and atlas of actually documented skeletal impact of diseases (as population phenomenon), an initial data base of reported skeletal pathology, and a methodology for expanding this to new arenas. The first section of the book examines the scientific basis of paleopathology, its transition from speculation-based musings, resolution of misconceptions and the denouement of paleo-epidemiology. The second section provides holistic analysis of the gamut of pathology/diseases with significant skeletal impact, with a validated archeologic/zoological/paleontological record. The third section provides a glossary to resolve the semantic challenges inherent to interdisciplinary efforts. The fourth section provides an atlas of pathology representation in the fossil record. Ultimately, this book intends to present a scientifically-validated approach to recognition of disease in the archeological, zoological and paleontological record, superseding previous speculation-based offerings.

Ortner's Identification of Pathological Conditions in Human Skeletal Remains

Ortner's Identification of Pathological Conditions in Human Skeletal Remains
Author: Jane E. Buikstra
Publisher: Academic Press
Total Pages: 859
Release: 2019-01-29
Genre: Law
ISBN: 0128099011

Ortner's Identification of Pathological Conditions in Human Skeletal Remains, Third Edition, provides an integrated and comprehensive treatment of the pathological conditions that affect the human skeleton. As ancient skeletal remains can reveal a treasure trove of information to the modern orthopedist, pathologist, forensic anthropologist, and radiologist, this book presents a timely resource. Beautifully illustrated with over 1,100 photographs and drawings, it provides an essential text and material on bone pathology, thus helping improve the diagnostic ability of those interested in human dry bone pathology. - Presents a comprehensive review of the skeletal diseases encountered in archaeological human remains - Includes more than 1100 photographs and line drawings illustrating skeletal diseases, including both microscopic and gross features - Based on extensive research on skeletal paleopathology in many countries - Reviews important theoretical issues on how to interpret evidence of skeletal disease in archaeological human populations

Oxford Textbook of Osteoarthritis and Crystal Arthropathy, Third Edition

Oxford Textbook of Osteoarthritis and Crystal Arthropathy, Third Edition
Author: Michael Doherty
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Total Pages: 529
Release: 2016-10-06
Genre: Medical
ISBN: 0199668841

A trustworthy clinical companion, the textbook offers best practice and management strategies for these common joint diseases. Formerly published as Osteoarthritis, the extensively revised third edition of the Oxford Textbook of Osteoarthritis and Crystal Arthropathy provides up-to-date and evidence-based guidance on how to assess, diagnose, and manage patients. A prestigious and international author team ensure information is expert and relevant-this is a practical tool for clinicians managing people with osteoarthritis, gout, and other crystal-associated arthritis. Confidently consider and chose the right blend of treatment for your patient, whether physical, pharmacological, surgical, or supportive. The Oxford Textbook of Osteoarthritis and Crystal Arthropathy provides full coverage of joint failure, and includes detailed sections on epidemiology, risk factors, clinical assessment, and investigations. This edition also now includes new sections on gout and other crystal arthropathies. Clinically relevant and easily understandable overviews of basic science, including pathology and pain physiology, along with critical appraisal of current guidelines, make this a highly valuable resource. Significant coverage is also given to patient education and the involvement of the patient in management planning. Also highly illustrated, the textbook is a strong reference tool with summary boxes and key points at the end of chapters making it easy to find information quickly and help you deliver the optimum patient outcome. The textbook equips rheumatologists and musculoskeletal health professionals with the knowledge to provide best possible patient care.

The Handbook of Mummy Studies

The Handbook of Mummy Studies
Author: Dong Hoon Shin
Publisher: Springer
Total Pages: 1171
Release: 2021-10-26
Genre: Social Science
ISBN: 9789811533532

Owing to their unique state of preservation, mummies provide us with significant historical and scientific knowledge of humankind’s past. This handbook, written by prominent international experts in mummy studies, offers readers a comprehensive guide to new understandings of the field’s most recent trends and developments. It provides invaluable information on the health states and pathologies of historic populations and civilizations, as well as their socio-cultural and religious characteristics. Addressing the developments in mummy studies that have taken place over the past two decades – which have been neglected for as long a time – the authors excavate the ground-breaking research that has transformed scientific and cultural knowledge of our ancient predecessors. The handbook investigates the many new biotechnological tools that are routinely applied in mummy studies, ranging from morphological inspection and endoscopy to minimally invasive radiological techniques that are used to assess states of preservation. It also looks at the paleoparasitological and pathological approaches that have been employed to reconstruct the lifestyles and pathologic conditions of ancient populations, and considers the techniques that have been applied to enhance biomedical knowledge, such as craniofacial reconstruction, chemical analysis, stable isotope analysis and ancient DNA analysis. This interdisciplinary handbook will appeal to academics in historical, anthropological, archaeological and biological sciences, and will serve as an indispensable companion to researchers and students interested in worldwide mummy studies.

Encyclopedia of Infectious Diseases

Encyclopedia of Infectious Diseases
Author: Michel Tibayrenc
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
Total Pages: 807
Release: 2007-07-31
Genre: Science
ISBN: 0470114193

Discover how the application of novel multidisciplinary, integrative approaches and technologies are dramatically changing our understanding of the pathogenesis of infectious diseases and their treatments. Each article presents the state of the science, with a strong emphasis on new and emerging medical applications. The Encyclopedia of Infectious Diseases is organized into five parts. The first part examines current threats such as AIDS, malaria, SARS, and influenza. The second part addresses the evolution of pathogens and the relationship between human genetic diversity and the spread of infectious diseases. The next two parts highlight the most promising uses of molecular identification, vector control, satellite detection, surveillance, modeling, and high-throughput technologies. The final part explores specialized topics of current concern, including bioterrorism, world market and infectious diseases, and antibiotics for public health. Each article is written by one or more leading experts in the field of infectious diseases. These experts place all the latest findings from various disciplines in context, helping readers understand what is currently known, what the next generation of breakthroughs is likely to be, and where more research is needed. Several features facilitate research and deepen readers' understanding of infectious diseases: Illustrations help readers understand the pathogenesis and diagnosis of infectious diseases Lists of Web resources serve as a gateway to important research centers, government agencies, and other sources of information from around the world Information boxes highlight basic principles and specialized terminology International contributions offer perspectives on how infectious diseases are viewed by different cultures A special chapter discusses the representation of infectious diseases in art With its multidisciplinary approach, this encyclopedia helps point researchers in new promising directions and helps health professionals better understand the nature and treatment of infectious diseases.

Identification of Pathological Conditions in Human Skeletal Remains

Identification of Pathological Conditions in Human Skeletal Remains
Author: Donald J. Ortner
Publisher: Academic Press
Total Pages: 663
Release: 2003-01-10
Genre: Social Science
ISBN: 0080525636

Identification of Pathological Conditions in Human Skeletal Remains provides an integrated and comprehensive treatment of pathological conditions that affect the human skeleton. There is much that ancient skeletal remains can reveal to the modern orthopaedist, pathologist, forensic anthropologist, and radiologist about the skeletal manifestations of diseases that are rarely encountered in modern medical practice. Beautifully illustrated with over 1,100 photographs and drawings, this book provides essential text and materials on bone pathology, which will improve the diagnostic ability of those interested in human dry bone pathology. It also provides time depth to our understanding of the effect of disease on past human populations. - Comprehensive review of skeletal diseases encountered in archeological human remains - More than 1100 photographs and line drawings illustrating skeletal disease including both microscopic and gross features - Based on extensive research on skeletal paleopathology in many countries for over 35 years - Review of important theoretical issues in interpreting evidence of skeletal disease in archeological human populations

Paleomicrobiology

Paleomicrobiology
Author: Didier Raoult
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
Total Pages: 228
Release: 2008-01-24
Genre: Science
ISBN: 3540758550

This fascinating new volume comes complete with color illustrations and features the methodology and main achievements in the emerging field of paleomicrobiology. It’s an area research at the intersection of microbiology and evolution, history and anthropology. New molecular approaches have already provided exciting results, such as confirmation of a single biotype of Yersinia pestis as the cause of historical plague pandemics. An absorbing read for scientists in related fields.

Advances in Human Palaeopathology

Advances in Human Palaeopathology
Author: Ron Pinhasi
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
Total Pages: 408
Release: 2008-02-28
Genre: Social Science
ISBN: 047072417X

This volume presents a truly integrated methodological and biocultural approach to the expanding discipline of human palaeopathology. The book provides researchers and practitioners with a comprehensive guide to the main methods and techniques that are currently available for studying diseases and related conditions from human skeletal remains. It also describes the ways in which these methods can be applied to the reconstruction of health and disease in the past. The first part of the book deals with the survival of palaeopathological evidence and provides an up-to-date account of some of the latest techniques for studying disease in ancient remains. These include imaging techniques, such as radiography and CT scanning, and biochemical and histological analyses. Part two discusses the diagnosis and interpretation of particular classes of disease. The emphasis here is on what can be learnt by taking a biocultural or holistic approach to the study of disease frequencies at a population level. Combines theoretical, methodological and diagnostic aspects with key biocultural approaches. Includes overviews of the latest applicable techniques from molecular biology, biochemistry, histopathology and medical imaging. Written by an international team of experts. This book is an invaluable resource for biological anthropologists and archaeologists who study health and disease in past populations. It is also of interest to medical researchers dealing with epidemiological, diagnostic and pathophysiological aspects of diseases, who need a perspective upon the ways in which particular diseases affected earlier generations. Praise from the reviews: “... This book offers an impressive amount of information for both students and more advanced researchers. Its value lies in the vast expertise the contributors have to offer, with all of them being experts with long-standing careers in their respective fields, as well as the geographical distribution of examples that are given to illustrate specific diseases... outstanding and it truly is an important resource for anyone interested in palaeopathology.” PALEOPATHOLOGY NEWSLETTER “The strengths of the book are numerous, but I am especially impressed with the clarity of presentation... I strongly recommend the book, and plan on using it in my classes as assigned reading to emphasize the very complex nature of diagnosis and its essential role of providing baseline information for interpreting health profiles of ancient populations.” THE QUARTERLY REVIEW OF BIOLOGY “It may be asked if we really need yet another book on paleopathology, especially because there are many acclaimed sources available. In this case, the answer must be a resounding ‘‘Yes!’’...Visually and textually, this volume is of exceptional value for guiding future generations of paleopathologists.” AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY "Pinhasi and Mays have produced an excellent, balanced compilation that reflects what is currently happening in paleopathology research and that nicely addresses paleopathology as both discipline and tool, highlighting technical advanced and schooling us on how disease manifests in the human skeleton. This is valuable resource that students and professionals interested in human paloepathology should consider adding to their libraries." AMERICAN JOURNAL OF HUMAN BIOLOGY

Palaeopathology

Palaeopathology
Author: Tony Waldron
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Total Pages: 542
Release: 2008-10-20
Genre: Social Science
ISBN: 1139474006

Palaeopathology is designed to help bone specialists with diagnosis of diseases in skeletal assemblages. It suggests an innovative method of arriving at a diagnosis in the skeleton by applying what are referred to as 'operational definitions'. The aim is to ensure that all those who study bones will use the same criteria for diagnosing disease, which will enable valid comparisons to be made between studies. This book is based on modern clinical knowledge and provides background information so that those who read it will understand the natural history of bone diseases, and this will enable them to draw reliable conclusions from their observations. Details of bone metabolism and the fundamentals of basic pathology are also provided, as well as a comprehensive and up-to-date bibliography. A short chapter on epidemiology provides information on how best to analyze and present the results of a study of human remains.

The Emperor of All Maladies

The Emperor of All Maladies
Author: Siddhartha Mukherjee
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Total Pages: 624
Release: 2011-08-09
Genre: Health & Fitness
ISBN: 1439170916

Winner of the Pulitzer Prize and a documentary from Ken Burns on PBS, this New York Times bestseller is “an extraordinary achievement” (The New Yorker)—a magnificent, profoundly humane “biography” of cancer—from its first documented appearances thousands of years ago through the epic battles in the twentieth century to cure, control, and conquer it to a radical new understanding of its essence. Physician, researcher, and award-winning science writer, Siddhartha Mukherjee examines cancer with a cellular biologist’s precision, a historian’s perspective, and a biographer’s passion. The result is an astonishingly lucid and eloquent chronicle of a disease humans have lived with—and perished from—for more than five thousand years. The story of cancer is a story of human ingenuity, resilience, and perseverance, but also of hubris, paternalism, and misperception. Mukherjee recounts centuries of discoveries, setbacks, victories, and deaths, told through the eyes of his predecessors and peers, training their wits against an infinitely resourceful adversary that, just three decades ago, was thought to be easily vanquished in an all-out “war against cancer.” The book reads like a literary thriller with cancer as the protagonist. Riveting, urgent, and surprising, The Emperor of All Maladies provides a fascinating glimpse into the future of cancer treatments. It is an illuminating book that provides hope and clarity to those seeking to demystify cancer.