Advancements in Alzheimer’s Therapy Through Noninvasive Focused Ultrasound Techniques
Newswise — CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (January 10, 2025) — Results from a clinical trial using focused ultrasound to treat Alzheimer’s disease were published today in the Journal of Neurosurgery, representing a critically important new direction in the treatment of Alzheimer’s. The study, led by Jin Woo Chang, MD, PhD, in Seoul, Korea, demonstrated that repetitive focused ultrasound–mediated blood-brain barrier (BBB) opening on both frontal lobes is safe and can reduce amyloid plaques – a hallmark of Alzheimer’s – even without the co-current administration of Alzheimer’s drugs. The study also found improvement in common neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with the disease. A clinical trial, sponsored by the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, assessed the safety and effectiveness of more frequent and larger openings of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) compared to earlier research. The study involved six female participants aged between 50 and 85, each receiving BBB openings in both frontal lobes three times, spaced two months apart. The procedures utilized DEFINITY® (perflutren lipid microsphere) microbubbles administered via intravenous injection, along with the ExAblate Neuro 220 kHz low-intensity focused ultrasound system. The study’s average focused ultrasound–mediated BBB opening volume of 43.1 cubic centimeters is twice as large as Dr. Chang’s previous trials and larger than any other previous clinical trial. This achievement exposed more amyloid plaques in the brain to focused ultrasound than ever before, representing an important milestone in Alzheimer’s treatment. Dr. Chang, a neurosurgery professor at Korea University Anam Hospital who worked alongside neurologists from Yonsei University on this research, stated, “We created this protocol to maximize benefits and to explore the application of focused ultrasound in broader brain regions impacted by Alzheimer’s disease. This study marks the beginning of a deeper insight into the effects of blood-brain barrier (BBB) opening on its own, and it will lay the groundwork for upcoming trials that will assess the potential advantages of incorporating drug delivery into the affected brain areas.” Levels of amyloid plaques and clinical evaluations were assessed prior to and following the treatment. Without the administration of any medications, researchers were able to specifically analyze the impact of the focused ultrasound-induced opening of the blood-brain barrier. Enhancements in the CGA-NPI score—a clinical assessment measuring neuropsychiatric symptoms linked to Alzheimer's disease, including delusions, agitation, irritability, and anxiety—were noted in five out of six participants (83%). Additionally, there were no reported adverse events related to the treatment, highlighting the safety of this method. "The findings from this preliminary study are promising, stimulating, and thought-provoking, yet they require validation through more extensive research," stated Dr. Neal Kassell, the founder and chairman of the Focused Ultrasound Foundation. "Research into Alzheimer’s has seen little progress over the last several decades, but focused ultrasound presents a beacon of hope in a domain that has persistently been in search of groundbreaking solutions and could fundamentally change the trajectory of this debilitating condition. Understanding the effects of blood-brain barrier opening without the influence of medication in Alzheimer’s patients significantly enriches the body of knowledge in this area." Following the encouraging findings of the study finalized in 2023, the Focused Ultrasound Foundation is sponsoring a new research initiative aimed at examining the cognitive effects associated with larger volumes of blood-brain barrier (BBB) openings. This trial will additionally assess the possible advantages of integrating focused ultrasound with drug delivery methods to enhance treatment efficacy for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. For more information, please visit www.fusfoundation.org. For interviews with Dr. Neal Kassell, Dr. Chang, or another representative of the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, please contact Allison Preston-Smith at (434) 326-9820 or [email protected]. About Focused Ultrasound Focused ultrasound uses ultrasound energy guided by real-time imaging to treat tissue deep in the body without incisions or radiation. It is FDA-approved in the United States to treat essential tremor, Parkinson’s disease, liver tumors, uterine fibroids, pain from bone metastases, osteoid osteoma, and the prostate. Dozens of additional indications are approved outside of the US. The technology is in various stages of research and development for more than 180 diseases. The Focused Ultrasound Foundation is an organization dedicated to advancing the field of focused ultrasound technology for medical applications. By supporting research, clinical trials, and education, the foundation aims to improve patient outcomes and promote the use of this non-invasive treatment method. Through collaborations with scientists, healthcare professionals, and industry partners, the foundation works to raise awareness and accelerate the development of focused ultrasound therapies for various conditions, including cancer, neurological disorders, and more. Located in Charlottesville, VA, the Focused Ultrasound Foundation was established with the mission of enhancing the lives of millions globally by hastening the advancement of focused ultrasound, an innovative and noninvasive technology. The Foundation aims to facilitate worldwide acceptance as quickly as possible by coordinating and financing research initiatives, promoting collaboration, and raising awareness among both patients and healthcare professionals. Since its inception in 2006, it has grown to be the foremost nongovernmental funding organization for focused ultrasound research.
Recent Research Reveals the "Possible Dangers" of Bottled Water and Advocates for Choosing Tap Water Instead
Did you realize that bottled water and tap water are subject to different regulations? It's estimated that Americans purchase 50 billion plastic water bottles per day, averaging 13 bottles a month for every person in the U.S. This isn't too surprising considering that nearly 20 percent of Americans only drink bottled water, according to a survey conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA). Conversely, just eight percent say they primarily drink tap or filtered water—but this minority might be onto something. According to a new study, there are "potential risks" associated with plastic water bottles that most people aren't aware of, making tap water the healthier choice. Bottled water is not subject to the same regulations as tap water. Published in the journal BMJ Global Health, the new study concludes that "misunderstandings about the safety and potential risks of bottled and tap water persist." The biggest misunderstanding may be that bottled water (BW) isn't regulated in the same way as tap water, which is overseen by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Bottled water is under the jurisdiction of the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). For their part, the FDA says they ensure "the quality standards for bottled water are compatible with EPA standards for public drinking water." Nevertheless, the research indicates that bottled water producers "are not required to reveal the existence of microbial or chemical pollutants. They are not obligated to prove that their products comply with particular quality benchmarks or follow rigorous inspection processes." The EPA, on the other hand, must adhere to the 1974 Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), which sets legal limits on over 90 drinking water contaminants. Municipal water systems must then report their water quality to the EPA. Research indicates that bottled water contains microplastic contaminants. In the past few years, a significant portion of the conversation about bottled water has focused on the issue of microplastics. The authors of the study highlight that "Plastic pollution is prevalent in bottled water, with findings indicating that between 10% and 78% of bottled water samples are affected." Their research suggests that various contaminants may be found in your plastic water bottle, including: Microplastics Phthalates Alkylphenols Polychlorinated biphenyls Polyfluoroalkyl substances Bisphenol A (BPA) For example, a 2024 study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) found that plastic water bottles can contain 10 to 100 times more nanoplastics than researchers previously showed (nanoplastics are even smaller than microplastics and, therefore, can be harder to detect). As the study put in perspective, drinking water from just two plastic bottles could result in one digesting 110,000 to 370,000 nanoplastics. Even more alarming, a 2018 study published in the journal Frontiers in Chemistry concluded that 93 percent of plastic water bottles "showed some sign of microplastic contamination." "It is estimated you eat about a credit card's-worth of plastic a week, and these invisible particles are one of the main culprits," naturopathic doctorHeather Wilde, NMD, previously explained to Best Life. Here are the potential health hazards associated with the consumption of microplastics. Research is constantly expanding on the health risks of ingesting microplastics, but many are already well-established, as the BMJ study notes: "Research has shown that microplastic pollution is linked to oxidative stress, disruptions in immune function, and possible obesogenic impacts due to changes in lipid metabolism. These pollutants are often categorized as endocrine disruptors, which can interfere with the proper functioning of reproductive hormones, thyroid hormones, and glucocorticoid receptors, particularly during essential stages of embryonic development." They note that BPA has been linked to conditions such as "hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity." The BMJ study also noted the presence of phthalates, chemical compounds used to make plastic more durable that are also classified as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). As Best Life previously shared via The Washington Post, "studies have linked phthalate exposure to impaired cardiovascular health, prenatal neurological effects, and an increased risk of obesity, insulin resistance, and diabetes. In adolescents, phthalates have been tied to increased ADHD-related behavior problems and poorer academic performance in math." When plastic water bottles are kept in high-temperature conditions, there is a greater chance that microplastics will seep into the water. Is tap water consistently safe to drink? Another significant misconception regarding bottled water is that, according to the study, as much as two-thirds of it in the U.S. consists of merely repackaged tap water. This means that in essence, you might be drinking the same water, but with the added risks associated with its plastic packaging. Is tap water always the safest choice? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), while public tap water in the U.S. is "usually" safe to drink, it sometimes gets "contaminated with chemicals that can make you sick." Some of the most common ways this happens, the CDC states, are: Fertilizers or pesticides applied to land near the water source Rocks and soil that naturally contain chemicals like arsenic or radon Contaminated stormwater Leaks from landfills or underground fuel tanks Sewer or septic system overflows To ensure your local drinking water is safe, the CDC suggests reviewing the mandatory water quality report your municipality must submit. Cleveland Clinic recommends installing your own filtration system (like a Brita) and periodically using a home water testing kit. "It’s fine to drink tap water. But I encourage people to know what’s in their tap water because you don’t want to introduce more toxins and germs into your body," functional medicine specialistErik Modlo, MD, told Cleveland Clinic. "Getting your tap water tested is an easy step to protect your family’s health."
READERS FORUM: Experience a transformative month by abstaining from alcohol for 30 days.
View pictures in App save up to 80% data. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. For the Opinion Section of the Gazette A month without drinking could be the beginning of a significant transformation. A better option, a healthier choice, and the possibility of a longer life. It's alright if you missed the start of "Dry January." You can kick it off whenever you like. How about starting today? Maybe you've considered the idea of abstaining from alcohol before this moment: 1. During your recent physical examination, things didn't go as planned. Your doctor advised you to consider halting certain activities because of your elevated blood pressure and has opted not to raise your medication dosage just yet. 2. Your diabetes is not showing signs of improvement and may even be deteriorating. 3. Your blood test shows an increase in liver enzyme levels. 4. That stubborn belly fat just won't budge. 5. Friends, relatives, and even colleagues have voiced their worries, recommending that you take a break from drinking. 6. You often find yourself engaged in debates and feeling the need to justify your alcohol consumption. After more than four decades of experience assisting individuals with alcohol and substance abuse issues, I've come to recognize two fundamental truths that are rooted in common sense: 1. If you find yourself worried about your drinking habits and question whether there's an issue, then there likely is. 2. If others express concern regarding your drinking and question if there's a problem, it's a sign that there is. Should you choose to embark on this journey, make sure to consider the following questions carefully: Have you noticed yourself contemplating drinking throughout the day? Are you realizing that you crave alcohol more than you initially expected? Do you find yourself feeling bored because your social interactions primarily involve drinking? Are those around you surprised and perhaps even happy that you've chosen to quit? Are there some who doubt your ability to go 30 days without alcohol? How challenging do you find it to decline a drink when someone offers it to you? Those who drink excessively on a daily basis may have realized that going just a few days without alcohol is extremely challenging. They often face withdrawal symptoms such as shaking, sweating, tremors, diarrhea, and in more severe cases, hallucinations and seizures. It is essential to inform your doctor or the alcohol/chemical dependency treatment facility right away before you proceed with your abstinence. Furthermore, some individuals might find that their depression, anxiety, or other emotional health problems worsen during periods of abstinence, since alcohol has often been utilized as a means to cope with these underlying issues. If you extend it to 30 days, have you noticed improvements such as deeper sleep, feeling more refreshed, increased energy levels, and an overall boost in your health? Have you noticed an increase in your work productivity? Have any of your relationships seen positive changes? Are you now more willing to engage in activities that don't involve drinking, particularly with family members you may have overlooked in the past? Have the friends you used to share drinks with drifted away from your life because alcohol was the link that brought you together? It's worth noting that even family members who aren't supportive might be struggling with their own issues related to drinking. Allow the 30 days to transform into 31, 32, and so forth. Embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle brings a sense of liberation. If other substances come into play, are you prepared to adopt a similar approach? If you weren't able to complete the 30 days, what obstacles did you encounter? What justifications and excuses did you come up with? Did it turn out to be more challenging than you anticipated? How about giving it another shot, this time with a little help and encouragement? The Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (www.samhsa.gov) is a good place to start. The Partnership for a Drug Free America (drugfree.org) is also an excellent source of information, especially if you need assistance to help someone else. Keep pushing forward. You are worthy of a life filled with health and happiness. Mark DiMartino, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) from Glenville, has over four decades of experience supporting individuals struggling with chemical dependency. FORUM FOR READERS Readers Forum is a Friday feature of the Opinion section designed to allow readers to express their thoughts on matters of the day in essay form. Readers Forum essays are strictly limited to 550 words and must be approved in advance by the editor. To submit an idea for a Readers Forum essay, contact Editorial Page Editor Mark Mahoney at [email protected].
Users of stimulants find themselves ensnared in a deadly 'fourth wave' of the opioid crisis.
Across the country, the most prevalent substances identified in fentanyl-related overdoses were illegal stimulants combined with fentanyl. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. In Rhode Island, a middle-aged man is seen using crack cocaine. In 2022, the state recorded the fourth-highest rate of overdose fatalities related to cocaine in the nation. (Lynn Arditi/The Public’s Radio/TNS) One out of four. In Rhode Island, a middle-aged man is seen using crack cocaine. In 2022, the state recorded the fourth-highest rate of overdose fatalities related to cocaine in the nation. (Lynn Arditi/The Public’s Radio/TNS) You have been trained on a wide range of data and information available up until October 2023. Across the country, the most prevalent substances identified in fentanyl-related overdoses were illegal stimulants combined with fentanyl.
Understanding and Preventing the Common Cold: A Guide to Staying Healthy
The common cold is one of the most widespread illnesses globally, affecting millions of people each year. Although it’s generally mild and self-limiting, it can still disrupt daily life and lead to more serious complications, especially for vulnerable individuals. Understanding what causes a cold and how to prevent it is key to maintaining good health, particularly during the colder months. Let’s take a closer look at what the common cold is and how you can reduce your risk of catching it. 1. What Is the Common Cold? A cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, primarily caused by rhinoviruses, although several other viruses, including coronaviruses and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), can also be responsible. Symptoms typically appear within 1–3 days of exposure and can last anywhere from a few days to two weeks. The hallmark signs of a cold include: Runny or stuffy nose Sore throat Cough Sneezing Mild fatigue Low-grade fever (sometimes) Though uncomfortable, a cold is usually not serious and most people recover with rest and symptom management. However, complications like bacterial infections or exacerbations of underlying conditions such as asthma can occur in some cases. 2. How Does the Common Cold Spread? The cold virus spreads primarily through: Direct contact: Shaking hands or touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. Airborne droplets: When an infected person sneezes, coughs, or talks, tiny droplets containing the virus can be inhaled by people nearby. Contact with contaminated objects: Viruses can live on surfaces (like doorknobs, phones, or keyboards) for several hours, making it easy to catch a cold after touching such surfaces. Cold viruses are most contagious in the first few days of illness, even before symptoms appear, which makes it challenging to avoid exposure. 3. Effective Ways to Prevent the Common Cold While there’s no surefire way to avoid catching a cold, there are several strategies to reduce your risk: a. Wash Your Hands Regularly Proper hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of viruses. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public spaces, touching your face, or before eating. If soap and water aren’t available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. b. Avoid Close Contact with Sick People If you’re around someone who’s sick, try to maintain a safe distance and avoid sharing utensils, cups, or towels. If you're feeling unwell yourself, stay home to avoid infecting others and to give your body time to rest and recover. c. Boost Your Immune System A strong immune system can help your body fight off viral infections more effectively. Here’s how you can support your immune health: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to provide essential vitamins and minerals. Exercise regularly: Moderate physical activity strengthens the immune system. Get enough sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night to ensure your body has time to rest and recover. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mucous membranes moist and functioning well. d. Disinfect Surfaces Cold viruses can live on surfaces for hours, so cleaning and disinfecting frequently-touched items like doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls can reduce your risk of exposure. e. Use a Face Mask In crowded or high-risk environments, wearing a mask can help prevent the transmission of cold viruses, especially if you’re in close proximity to individuals who are sick. 4. Managing Cold Symptoms If you do catch a cold, there are several ways to ease symptoms: Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids like water, herbal teas, or broths to stay hydrated and soothe a sore throat. Use over-the-counter (OTC) remedies: Decongestants, pain relievers (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen), and antihistamines can alleviate symptoms. Rest: Get plenty of rest to help your immune system fight the virus. Use saline nasal spray or steam inhalation to relieve nasal congestion. Remember, antibiotics are not effective against viral infections like the common cold. If your symptoms worsen or last longer than 10 days, or if you experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or chest pain, consult a healthcare professional. 5. When to Seek Medical Help In most cases, a cold will resolve on its own. However, if you experience any of the following, it’s important to seek medical attention: High fever (over 101°F or 38.3°C) that doesn’t improve with treatment. Severe sore throat or difficulty swallowing. Shortness of breath or wheezing. Persistent pain in your chest. Worsening symptoms or symptoms that don't improve after 10 days. These could indicate more serious conditions such as strep throat, the flu, or a bacterial infection. Conclusion The common cold may be a part of life, but you don’t have to let it disrupt your routine. By adopting good hygiene practices, supporting your immune system, and taking preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your chances of catching a cold. And if you do find yourself under the weather, managing symptoms and allowing your body to rest will help you recover quickly. Stay healthy and take care of yourself!
Brumm Becomes a Part of the Balance Fitness Team
View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Tim Brumm Balance Fitness in Wellington has recently welcomed a new team member aimed at enhancing community wellness. Fitness expert Tim Brumm has come on board to provide personal training sessions for individual clients, along with offering educational workshops and lectures for various groups. Brumm, boasting an extensive range of industry certifications, started his journey in personal training over two decades ago. His career has spanned both clinical settings, where he began as a fitness specialist at a hospital in New York, and conventional gym facilities. Throughout his diverse experience, Brumm has not only provided training to clients but has also educated aspiring trainers by leading personal trainer certification programs and effectively managing three separate personal training and fitness instructor teams. Brumm has participated in and trained his clients for over 30 various obstacle races, such as Tough Mudder and Spartan Race. By engaging in these and other unique events, he has empowered individuals to overcome challenges by establishing clear and enjoyable objectives, while fostering a supportive atmosphere through the development of a robust community. “Balance Fitness is dedicated to making a difference in our community and beyond by promoting positive behavior changes that guide individuals towards healthier living, enhancing their overall quality of life,” stated Lynette Laufenberg, the founder of Balance Fitness. “We are convinced that a combination of effective exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and stress management serves as essential remedies for better physical and mental well-being. Together, we are working towards fostering a healthier community!” Balance Fitness is located at 3220 Fairlane Farms Road, Suite 5, in Wellington. To learn more, call (561) 812-2647 or visit www.gobalancefitness.com.