Release date: 2009-03-30
A few days ago, the prestigious journal Science published a groundbreaking study highlighting a new spinal cord electronic device developed by American scientists. This innovative technology has shown promising results in helping rats with Parkinson's disease become more active, offering a less invasive treatment option for this debilitating condition.
The research was led by Dr. Miguel Nicolelis from Duke University, who and his team have been exploring ways to restore motor function in patients with neurological disorders. The device involves implanting two ultra-thin sensors through a small incision in the spine, allowing them to interface directly with the spinal cord. These sensors then deliver targeted electrical pulses that stimulate peripheral nerves responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the body.
In healthy individuals, nerve cells fire at varying speeds, enabling smooth movement and coordination. However, in Parkinson’s disease, these nerve cells become overactive and fire simultaneously, disrupting normal movement. This malfunction leads to a decrease in dopamine production, which is essential for controlling movement. Current treatments typically rely on dopamine replacement drugs like levodopa, which can only manage symptoms rather than provide a cure.
To evaluate the effectiveness of the new device, researchers tested it on mice with Parkinson’s disease alongside different doses of levodopa. They found that when the device was used in combination with the drug, only two doses were needed to enable movement in the affected animals, compared to five doses required when using the drug alone. This suggests that the device could significantly reduce the need for medication while improving mobility.
Moreover, the device may help extend the effectiveness of levodopa over time, as the drug often loses potency with prolonged use. According to the researchers, this approach is not only more effective than current brain-stimulating technologies but also easier to implement, as stimulating the spinal cord is less complex than targeting the brain directly.
The team plans to test the device on primates this year and aims to move toward human trials by 2010. If successful, this could represent a major breakthrough in treating Parkinson’s disease, offering patients a safer and more sustainable alternative to traditional therapies.
Parkinson’s disease affects approximately 1.5 million Americans and is one of the most common neurodegenerative conditions among middle-aged and elderly populations. It is characterized by slow movement, tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance. Often referred to as the “third killer†after heart disease and cancer, it is a serious health concern that significantly impacts quality of life. As research continues to advance, innovations like this spinal cord device bring hope for a better future for those living with the condition.
Shanghai Medical Device Industry Association
Crushed chili refers to dried red chili peppers that have been crushed or ground into small, coarse flakes. These flakes are commonly used as a spice to add heat and flavor to a variety of dishes. The level of spiciness can vary depending on the type of chili peppers used and whether the seeds are included. Crushed chili is a popular ingredient in many cuisines around the world, including Mexican, Italian, and Asian cuisines. It is often sprinkled on pizzas, pasta, soups, stews, and various other dishes to enhance their taste and provide a fiery kick. Additionally, crushed chili can be a key component in spice blends and rubs for meat or vegetable preparations.
Crushed chili is a fiery and versatile spice made by crushing or grinding dried chili peppers into coarse flakes. This form of chili offers a spectrum of heat levels, depending on the type of peppers used and whether seeds are included.
Known for its ability to add both heat and flavor, crushed chili is a popular choice in various cuisines worldwide, including Mexican, Italian, and Asian dishes. It serves as a go-to spice for sprinkling over pizzas, pasta, soups, stews, and a myriad of other culinary creations to elevate their taste with a fiery punch.
Its coarse texture and intense heat make crushed chili an ideal addition to spice blends, marinades, and rubs for meats or vegetables. Whether used sparingly for a touch of warmth or generously for a spicy kick, crushed chili brings a distinctive zest to dishes, making it a staple in many kitchens seeking to amplify flavor with a hint of heat.
Chili Crushed, Chili flakes, Crushed Chili, Red Chili Flakes
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