The MCP joint of the thumb is often affected by rheumatoid arthritis, but itâs unusual to replace it with an artificial one. Instead, the joint can be stiffened, allowing the joints next to it to make up for its loss of movement. This operation is usually effective at easing pain and improving pinching movements.
China is a civilization spanning some six thousand years and comprising a large fraction of humanity. There is evidence of man's prehistoric ancestors living in China some two million years ago, and modern man has lived in the area for at least 18,000 years, possibly much longer.
But they believe the discovery will shed light on the origins of Chinese language and culture. The oldest writing in the world is believed to be from Mesopotamia (now Iraq), dating back slightly more than 5,000 years. Chinese characters are believed to have been developed independently. The Chinese inscriptions were found on more than 200 pieces dug out from the neolithic Liangzhu relics site.