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ScienceDaily (July 29, 2008) — Medical College of Wisconsin researchers in Milwaukee have reported that children of Alzheimer's patients who are carriers of a genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease have neurological changes that are detectable long before clinical symptoms may appear.
Functional MRI brain imaging revealed that these symptomless carriers of the APOE-4 gene demonstrated significantly reduced functional brain connectivity between the hippocampus and the posterior cingulated cortex, two important brain structures for memory processing. These structures are relevant for information acquisition, filtering and sorting.
The study, conducted at Froedtert Hospital, was led by Shi Jiang Li, Ph.D., professor of biophysics, and was presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference on Alzheimer's disease in Chicago, July 29th. "Just as if cancer could be detected when there were only a few cells, decades before it was evident, the advantage of identifying those at great risk for having Alzheimer's would be of tremendous value in development of interventional therapies," says Dr. Li.
The researchers studied 28 neurologically-normal subjects, between ages 45 and 65. Twelve carried the APOE-4 gene and 16 did not. The two groups showed no significant difference in age, educational level, or neuropsychological performances. All subjects received fMRI scans. For each subject, functional connectivity between the two brain structures was measured in a resting state.
Results showed that functional connectivity in the non APOE-4 carriers was approximately 65 percent better than that of the carriers.
Other members of the research team were Piero Antuono, M.D., professor of neurology, and Zhilin Wu, Ph.D., Chunming Xie, Ph.D., and Jennifer L. Jones, M.S., research associates in the departments of biophysics and neurology.
Dear HealthTalk member, Here's the latest from the HealthTalk Alzheimer's/Dementia Community: Treating Alzheimer’s: New Treatment Shows Potential Good news for people with Alzheimer’s: a recent study suggests a new class of drugs shows potential for treating the disease. The drugs, called gamma-secretase modulators, reduce the production of long pieces of amyloid beta protein that stick together and form clumps, developing tangles in the brain - a common characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease. These drugs also increase the production of shorter amyloid beta, which keep longer amyloid beta from sticking together in the first place. According to Greg M. Cole, associate director of the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, who was quoted in our article about these potential new Alzheimer’s treatments, not only does it seem these drugs can help treat Alzheimer’s, but if taken early enough, they may actually work preventatively too. Read on to learn more about this potential new treatment and to what experts are saying about the developments. 
New Class of Drugs May Fight Alzheimer's WEDNESDAY, June 11 (HealthDay News) -- A class of drugs called gamma-secretase modulators shows potential for treating Alzheimer's disease, a new study suggests. A hallmark of Alzheimer's is so-called amyloid plaque, which develops tangles in the brain. The gamma-secretase modulators reduce the production of long pieces of amyloid beta protein that stick together and form clumps. At the same time, the drugs increase the production of shorter amyloid beta that blocks longer amyloid beta from sticking together, the researchers explained. "We have discovered a novel mechanism of action for a class of drugs that are currently being tested as Alzheimer's disease therapeutics," said lead researcher Dr. Todd E. Golde, an associate professor at the Mayo Clinic Department of Neuroscience, in Jacksonville, Fla. These new drugs don't work in the same way that many other drugs do, Golde said. "Sometimes we think of drugs as magic bullets targeting a single entity, but this drug, by the way it works, could have three consequences that could have a benefit for Alzheimer's disease," he said. While the new compounds decrease the production of long chains of amyloid beta, Golde said, "Surprisingly, they increase the presence of shorter chains of amyloid beta, which we think actually prevents the accumulation of longer chains of amyloid beta." "In a short form, amyloid beta is harmless as far as we know," he added. "So you sort of get three bangs for your buck." "This finding could tell us how drugs for Alzheimer's disease already in clinical trials may be working," Golde said. One of the modulator drugs, tarenflurbil (Flurizan), was in a just-completed phase III clinical trial, and the results should be available this summer, he said. The latest findings are published in the June 12 edition of Nature. One expert thinks the new research could produce a drug that could fight the development of amyloid plaque in two ways. "This is interesting and unexpected," said Dr. Sam Gandy, chairman of the Alzheimer's Association's National Medical and Scientific Advisory Council. "This suggests that it might be possible to design or identify compounds that both modulate generation of amyloid beta and at the same time modulate accumulation of amyloid beta." Until now, anti-amyloid drugs have fallen into three broad classes: immunotherapies, anti-aggregation compounds, and secretase modulators, Gandy said. "The new work suggests that there exist single drugs that possess both of the latter two activities, thereby supplying an anti-amyloid double whammy," he said. Another expert thinks this avenue of attack on amyloid plaque looks promising. "Chronic intake of NSAIDs like ibuprofen appears to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's," said Greg M. Cole, associate director of the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine. "A subset of NSAIDs that the authors call gamma-secretase modulators appears to reduce the accumulation of the stickiest form of beta amyloid protein that is believed to aggregate and cause the disease," Cole said. "This means that the known protective NSAIDs may be a double threat against Alzheimer's and help protect against it if they are taken early for prevention." ASK THE DOCTOR Dementia HallucinationsMy father has dementia and is increasingly experiencing bothersome hallucinations; he sees and smells things that aren’t there. How should we handle his hallucinations? Read the doctor's answer BLOGS Speaking Out for Alzheimer’sDiane describes her experience speaking and participating at the Alzheimer’s Association Policy Forum, where she was able to make her voice heard. Find out how you can help in your city. Read the blog Early Onset Dementia: Obliged to Inform?When Diane was diagnosed with dementia, she realized the need for advocates. But, at times, she felt unprepared for this role. Do you think people with early-onset dementia should share their stories? Read the blogWEBCASTS Staying Mentally Active and Socially ConnectedAn active lifestyle doesn’t have to come to an end when diagnosed with dementia. Tune in July 9 as experts discuss stimulating and meaningful things dementia patients can do to stay active and social. Register nowDoes Aromatherapy Work?Could lemon oil relieve depression? What about lavender oil to lower your blood pressure? Tune in Wednesday as experts discuss how aromatherapy works and which symptoms and conditions it can treat. Register now
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Alzheimer's Daily News
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A Publication of the Ageless Design Research Foundation
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Monday, June 9, 2008
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Dear Jeanne L,
Editorial Note: Each day Ageless Design Research Foundation reviews the news wires, looking for press releases and current articles relating to dementia. We write a brief description of each article along with a link to the originally written story before including it in the Alzheimer's Daily News. For more information we strongly recommend that you read the full article and draw your own conclusions.
Mark & Ellen Warner
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Zeroing in on Alzheimer's
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(Source LA Times) - Sue Halpern, a scholar in residence at Middlebury College, writes,"After years of 'breakthrough' hype, we may finally be aiming at the right target."
A recent newspaper article announced a new "breakthrough" in Alzheimer's research. The Danish drug company Lundbeck has acquired the European rights to an Alzheimer's drug in development [Flurizan] by an American drug company [Myriad Genetics). The drug, the article went on to say, has just completed Phase 3 testing, and results are expected later this month. To date drugs to treat Alzheimer's only slow the progression of the disease. Recent advances in brain-imaging technology, molecular biology and genetics have caused scientists to re-evaluate the cause of Alzheimer's. The new thinking is that the body produces too much of a peptide called beta-amyloid 42, which floods the brain. Harvard professor, Dr. Rudolph Tanzi, explains: "The main place where A-beta 42 does its work is in the synapse. So every minute of the day, an Alzheimer's patient is producing A-beta 42, for one reason or another, and it's accumulating in the brain ... it's accumulating ... in the synapse. Way, way before the plaques form, you get tiny little aggregates of A-beta 42. The peptides stick together and they get into the synapse and they disrupt the most basic synaptic function for learning and memory." Flurizan is one of the first pharmaceuticals based on this new paradigm. For the first time in a century, we are developing an Alzheimer's drug aimed directly at what is believed, on the basis of compelling evidence, to be the target. For more information go to faceofdemocracy.org. Go to full story: latimes.com
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Experts Look for Changes in Alzheimer's Diagnosis and Treatment
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(Source: Daily Courier) - At the Desert Southwest Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association Caregiver Conference, Drs. Pierre Tariot and Marwan Sabbagh spoke on the latest developments in Alzheimer's treatment and research.
The most important news they brought was that an 18-month human trial of a new drug called Flurizan may show hopeful results in patients with a mild form of the disease. "This is very likely to be the next major new treatment," Tariot said.
More good news the doctors brought was that enough studies have gone far enough with sufficient good results that scientists are confident that their theories to fight the progression of the disease are correct.
Go to full story: dcourier.com
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Culture-Specific Care Sought in Alzheimer's Act
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(Source: Press-Telegram) - A bill proposed by U.S. Rep. Linda Sanchez would increase funding for research of Latinos suffering from Alzheimer's disease.
The "Cure and Understanding through Research for Alzheimer's Act (La CURA)," emphasizes "linguistically and culturally appropriate care."
Sanchez wants to increase Latino participation in clinical trials at the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to better address the aging-related illness.
Details about how much funding the proposal would require are unknown, but there would be an increase in funding to federal agencies for greater minority outreach.
Go to full story: presstelegram.com
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Gene Variation Linked to EOAD
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(Source: Newswise) - Washington University investigators have identified a genetic variation associated with the onset of Alzheimer's disease in younger people.
The research team, led by Dr. Alison Goate, analyzed DNA from 313 individuals, focusing on their locations in the tau gene.
Two principal features characterize Alzheimer's disease in the brain: amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. The plaques contain a protein called amyloid-beta. The tangles are made of a protein called tau.
The scientists found that four DNA sequence variants in the tau gene were associated with higher levels of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tau protein. Furthermore, variations in the gene were only associated with an increase in CSF tau protein levels which were accompanied by evidence of amyloid plaques in the brain.
Goate explained that Alzheimer's patients who carry these genetic variations appear to display symptoms of the disease at an earlier age.
She added that these findings lend further support to the hypothesis that amyloid-beta plaques form earlier in the cascade of Alzheimer's pathology, and that the tau protein is involved in how the disease progresses.
Go to full story: newswise.com (subscription required).
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Smoking May Be a Risk Factor for Dementia
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(Source: Newswise) - According to a new report, smoking may be associated with increased risk of poor memory among middle-age adults.
Data from a study involving 10,308 civil servants in London, ages 35 to 55, indicated that smokers performed lower on cognitive testing and had poorer vocabulary scores.
The authors wrote: This study presents four key findings:
- Smoking in middle age is associated with memory deficit and decline in reasoning abilities.
- Long-term ex-smokers are less likely to have cognitive deficits in memory, vocabulary and verbal fluency.
- Giving up smoking in midlife is accompanied by improvement in other health behaviors.
- An association between smoking and cognition, even in late midlife, could be underestimated because of higher risk of death and non-participation in cognitive tests among smokers.
Go to full story: newswise.com
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Bright Lighting May Improve Dementia Symptoms
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(Source:(Source: Newswise) - Researchers at the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences in Amsterdam report that the use of bright lighting to improve the circadian rhythm of elderly persons resulted in modest improvement in symptoms of dementia.
Dr. Rixt Riemersma-van der Lek wrote,"In elderly patients with dementia, cognitive decline is frequently accompanied by disturbances of mood, behavior, sleep, and activities of daily living, which increase caregiver burden and the risk of institutionalization." These symptoms have been associated with disturbances of the circadian rhythm (the regular recurrence, in cycles of about 24 hours, of biological processes or activities). "The circadian timing system is highly sensitive to environmental light and the hormone melatonin and may not function optimally in the absence of their synchronizing effects. In elderly patients with dementia, synchronization may be [diminished] if light exposure and melatonin production are reduced."
The 15 month-long study involved 189 residents living in 12 facilities, average age 85.8 years. Six of the facilities installed bright lighting in ceiling fixtures. Lights were turned on each day from 9 am to 6 pm.
The researchers found that bright light lessened cognitive deterioration, reduced depressive symptoms, and diminished increase in functional limitations. "The long-term application of whole-day bright light ... could be considered for use in care facilities for elderly individuals with dementia," the authors wrote.
Go to full story: newswise.com (subscription required)
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Brain Stem Cells Can Be Awakened
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(Source: ScienceDaily) - Scientists at Schepens Eye Research Institute have identified specific molecules in the brain responsible for awakening and putting to sleep brain stem cells, which, when activated, can transform into neurons (nerve cells) and repair damaged brain tissue.
Dr. Dong Feng Chen believes that tapping the brain's dormant, but intrinsic, ability to regenerate itself is the best hope for people suffering from brain-ravaging diseases such as Parkinson's or Alzheimer's disease or traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries.
Go to full story: sciencedaily.com
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Myelin Deficiency in Mice Restored with Neural Stem Cells
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(Source: Money Times) - University of Rochester researchers were able to cure congenital brain disorder in mice with a single shot of human neural stem cells.
The researchers used human glial progenitor cells to treat behavioral and physiological abnormalities in a mouse model with a myelin-deficiency disorder. The new findings could be an important step in finding a treatment for a number of currently incurable neurological conditions.
Brain cells (or neurons) are enveloped by a sheath of myelin, which coats their fibers, or axons, and makes communication between nerve cells possible. Myelin deficiency can cause muscle weakness, paralysis, seizures and dementia, due to the loss of neural impulses.
Examination of the animals' brains upon autopsy revealed new formation of myelin sheaths over neurons. "We never expected the entire nervous system (to be covered)," explained professor Steven Goldman, who added that previous attempts at stem cell transfer had resulted in the new myelin production in only 10 percent of the nervous system.
The research will help the scientists proceed towards curing human diseases, caused by the lack of myelin in the central nervous system.
Go to full story: themoneytimes.com
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Great Gifts for Great Dads
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So what do you get for the Dad who has everything on Father's Day (June 15 - only 10 days away)?
Early Stage:
Middle Stage:
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Our Stories - The 1940s Reminiscent (3DVD) A great video series featuring photos, stories and home movies from the 1940s.
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George Burns (4 DVD Set) - Enjoy George Burns at his very best, along side of such greats as Dean Martin, Johnny Carson, Bob Hope and many more (he'll love it).
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Signs and Rhymes of Burma Shave DVD - You may not remember the old country signs posted along the roadside, each one with a poetic line, but he will: "On the curves ahead ... Remember, Sonny...That rabbit's foot ... Didn't save the bunny!"
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CD of Classic Radio Shows - Famous stars from the 40s, 50s and 60s perform their mst memorable acts: Abbott and Lou Costello do "Who's on First," not to mention hilarious antics of Lucille Ball and others.
Later Stage:
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The Plumber's Pal - This kit simulates plumbing pieces that can assembled and taken apart to create simple or complex "pipe" systems (no previous experience required, but perfect for the handyman."
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The Handyman's Box - A hand-made wooden box with different doors, latches, locks and hasps on each one. The small box has 6 doors, the large box has 10).
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The Fisherman's Squishy Pad - A tactile, gel-filled "pool" with two fish (bluegill), rings and beads that move as you squeeze and manipulate the pad. It can be warmed up to soothe arthritic joints or cooled to reduce pain.
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Sound Puzzles (Fire Truck or Train Locomotive) - For "puzzle masters" this simple 9-piece puzzle comes together to display a train locomotive or fire engine, but more importantly, once completed it sounds a familiar sound and generates a wonderful sense of success.
To order these gift ideas or to discover more, go to the Alzheimer's Store or call (800) 752-3238. Have a great Father's Day.
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Calendar of Events for June, 2008
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For more details on each conference and for a full list of education conferences go to The Alzheimer's Daily News web site. Click here to see conference details click here.
To add your conference to our Calendar of Events click here.
6/11/2008 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Understanding Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias: Big Rapids, MI
Join us for an evening with a dementia specialist. Tips on getting a diagnosis will be shared, as well as up-to- date information on treatment and research developments.
6/11/2008 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM - Understanding the Difference Between Alzheimer's and Dementia: Westlake, OH
Dr. Mark Frankel is a Geriatric Psychiatrist and Chief of Staff at Lutheran Hospital. He is well respected in our community as an expert on Alzheimer's Disease and various forms of Dementia 6/12/2008 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM - Support Group Leader Basic Training: Concord, NH
The Basic Training seminar is designed for professionals and former family caregivers who want to become facilitators for Alzheimer caregiver support groups. The program focuses on the fundamentals of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias , group dynamics, special problems and concerns in Alzheimer caregiver groups, group management and promotion, and group leader roles and responsibilities. 6/16/2008 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM - Support Group Leader Basic Training: Lincoln, NH
The Basic Training seminar is designed for professionals and former family caregivers who want to become facilitators for Alzheimer caregiver support groups. The program focuses on the fundamentals of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias , group dynamics, special problems and concerns in Alzheimer caregiver groups, group management and promotion, and group leader roles and responsibilities. 6/17/2008 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM The Best Friends Approach to Dementia Care: Two-Day Train-the-Trainer Program: Chicago, IL
This staff training program prepares staff educators in various care settings to deliver a total of 12, one- hour modules to direct care staff.
6/18/2008 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Legal and Financial Issues: Big Rapids, MI
Join us for an evening with an elder law attorney. Tips for making financial and medical decisions on behalf of a person with dementia will be discussed, along with information crucial to planning for future care needs, such as understanding Medicare and Medicaid coverage.
6/23/2008 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM University of Kentucky 25th Annual Summer Series on Aging: Lexington, KY
An annual forum for professionals to share the most current information on geriatrics and gerontology from a multidisciplinary perspective. Keynote: Gene Cohen, MD, PhD. More than 30 sessions over three days; 20 hours of CE's for 18 different professional disciplines. More than a third of our sessions relate to families, professionals, services providers caring for and/or working with individuals with AD and other dementias.
6/24/2008 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM - Reducing the Risk of Falls: Granada Hills, CA
Falls for older adults with dementia are dangerous and can lead to a variety of health problems that decrease the quality of life. In Reducing the Risk of Falls, the difference between individual and environmental risks will be discussed, as well as proactive steps that can be taken to help prevent falls from happening. 6/25/2008 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Jacqueline Marcell to Speak on AD: Dickson City, PA
This Coalition on Aging Conference is designed for Social Workers, Nursing Home and Personal Care/Assisted Living Administrators, Nurses, Psychologists, Activity Professionals, Counselors, and any health care provider. Jacqueline's opening keynote 9:15-11:30 am. Professionals only: 6 CEU's.
6/25/2008 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Strategies for Navigating the Dementia Journey: Big Rapids, MI
Join us for practical tips for successfully interacting with a person with dementia, drawn from real-life experience. Information on resources available in the community will also be shared.
6/26/2008 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Introduction to Creative Yoga Therapy: Moline, IL
Creative Yoga Therapy (CYT) has been successfully integrated into day and residential facilities and home care for mild, moderate and severe A and D clients and their Caregivers for more than a decade. CYT focuses on simple, enjoyable Yoga and related Healing Arts modalities that can be used by medical staff and all other Carergivers as part of ongoing treatment planning. This 2 hour program introduces CYT basics and tools for all Caregivers living/working with Alzheimer's and dementia populations. It offers a preview of (and is the prerequisite for) Creative Yoga Therapy Level I Training taking place June 26-29. Nina Priya David, M.A., E-RYT has over 20 years experience with Alzheimer's and demential clients as well as frail, fragile, assisted elderly, those in chronic pain, at-risk and last stages populations. She specializes in adapting traditional mind- body practices for extremely challenging situations.6/27/2008 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM - Focus on Caregiving: Miami Beach Fl
This program is designed to provide knowledge, skill and methods of coping to family caregivers, proffessionals and others involved in the care of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. This year you will learn more about the newest treatments and research updates, how stress effects your heart, how to enhance your memory and how to reduce stress with humor. Cost is $10.00 per person and includes breakfast. R.S.V.P by 6/25/08 6/28/2008 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM - Research, Resources and Hope: A New England Forum for People with Early Stage Memory Loss and their Care-partners and Families: Boston, MA
This Alzheimer's Association forum allows people in the early stages of memory loss to: Hear from medical experts on promising treatments and new research Hear from others with early memory loss about positive life strategies Build support systems for yourself and your family Schedule memory screenings and care consultations Enjoy an Afternoon Social with the Eula Lawrence Trio. Co-sponsored by MGH Alzheimer's Disease Reseach Center, BU Alzheimer's Disease Center, MA Dept of Public Health, La Alianza Hispana, Hebrew SeniorLife Institute for Aging Research, and others.
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Preserving Your Memory Magazine - New Spring Issue
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Spring is here, and so is the latest issue of Preserving Your Memory magazine brought to you by the Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation.
This issue focuses on music, art therapy and Alzheimer's, featuring the Museum of Modern Art Meet Me at MOMA Alzheimer's program, and interviews HBO's Dominic Chianese, also known as "Uncle Junior" from The Sopranos. Mr. Chianese has been bringing his music to nursing homes and Alzheimer's patients for over 20 years, well before he became an accomplished actor.
And aside from many features, such as "Is There a Link Between Alzheimer's Disease and Parkinson's Disease?" there is also a news section where readers can find the latest information on Alzheimer's research and treatment (reviewed by the Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Disease Research's research associate, Dr. William J. Netzer). Magazine departments include: ask the experts, in-depth Alzheimer's research, medicinal laughter, food and nutrition, caregivers voices, long-term planning, fitness, and a keeping your mind sharp section which is a 4 page spread of different types of crossword puzzles and other mental exercise games.
If you have stories of your own you would like to see published, please submit them to: betsey@alzinfo.org. We hope you enjoy our publication.
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Acupuncture Reduces Pain and Dysfunction in Head and Neck Cancer Patients after Neck Dissection
May 31, 2008
NEW YORK, NY - New data from a randomized, controlled trial found that acupuncture provided significant reductions in pain, dysfunction, and dry mouth in head and neck cancer patients after neck dissection. The study was led by David Pfister, MD, Chief of the Head and Neck Medical Oncology Service, and Barrie Cassileth, PhD, Chief of the Integrative Medicine Service, at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC). Dr. Pfister presented the findings today at the annual meeting of the American Society for Clinical Oncology.
"Acupuncture can control a number of distressing symptoms, such as shortness of breath, anxiety and depression, chronic fatigue, pain, neuropathy, and osteoarthritis."
-- Barrie Cassileth, PhD, Chief, Integrative Medicine Service, MSKCC
Neck dissection is a common procedure for treatment of head and neck cancer. There are different types of neck dissection, which vary based on which structures are removed and the anticipated side effects. One type - the radical neck dissection - involves complete removal of lymph nodes from one side of the neck, the muscle that helps turn the head, a major vein, and a nerve that is critical to full range of motion for the arm and shoulder.
"Chronic pain and shoulder mobility problems are common after such surgery, adversely affecting quality of life as well as employability for certain occupations," said Dr. Pfister. Nerve-sparing and other modified radical techniques that preserve certain structures without compromising disease control reduce the incidence of these problems but do not eliminate them entirely. Dr. Pfister adds, "Unfortunately, available conventional methods of treatment for pain and dysfunction following neck surgery often have limited benefits, leaving much room for improvement."
Seventy patients participated in the study and were randomized to receive either acupuncture or usual care, which includes recommendations of physical therapy exercises and the use of anti-inflammatory drugs. For all of the patients, at least three months had elapsed since their surgery and radiation treatments. The treatment group received four sessions of acupuncture over the course of approximately four weeks. Both groups were evaluated using the Constant-Murley scale, a composite measure of pain, function, and activities of daily living.
Pain and mobility improved in 39 percent of the patients receiving acupuncture, compared to a 7 percent improvement in the group that received usual care. An added benefit of acupuncture was significant reduction of reported xerostomia, or extreme dry mouth. This distressing problem, common among cancer patients following radiotherapy in the head and neck, is addressed with only limited success by mainstream means.
"Like any other treatment, acupuncture does not work for everyone, but it can be extraordinarily helpful for many," said Dr. Cassileth. "It does not treat illness, but acupuncture can control a number of distressing symptoms, such as shortness of breath, anxiety and depression, chronic fatigue, pain, neuropathy, and osteoarthritis."
"Cancer patients should use acupuncturists who are certified by the national agency, NCCAOM [National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine], and who are trained, or at least experienced, in working with the special symptoms and problems caused by cancer and cancer treatment," she added.
Acupuncture, a component of Traditional Chinese Medicine, originated more than 2,000 years ago. Treatment involves stimulation of one or more predetermined points on the body with needles, heat, pressure, or electricity for therapeutic effect. A report published by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) indicated that more than 8 million Americans use acupuncture to treat different ailments. Acupuncture is being used in the palliative care of cancer to alleviate pain and chronic fatigue and to reduce postoperative chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.
The study was funded in part from a grant by the National Cancer Institute. In addition to Drs. Pfister and Cassileth, other MSKCC contributors to the study include: Dr. Andrew Vickers, Dr. Gary Deng, Dr. Jennifer Lee, Mr. Donald Garrity, Dr. Nancy Lee, Dr. Dennis Kraus, Dr. Ashok Shaha, and Dr. Jatin Shah.
Jour
Sorry been so very busy When symptoms of forgetfulness appear, it's easy to assume Alzheimer's is to blame. But there's much more to consider. Learn about forms of dementia caused by poor circulation, vitamin deficiencies and other illnesses from your doctor. ..Will try to keep up better...................................................................................................................
| | | March 2008
PARADOXICAL ALZHEIMER’S FINDING MAY SHED
NEW LIGHT ON MEMORY LOSS Do you remember the seventh song that played on your radio on the way to work yesterday? Most of us don’t, thanks to a normal forgetting process that is constantly “cleaning house” – culling inconsequential information from our brains. Researchers at the Buck Institute now believe that this normal memory loss is hyper-activated in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and that this effect is key to the profound memory loss associated with the incurable neurodegenerative disorder. Two years ago, this same group of researchers found that they could completely prevent Alzheimer’s disease in mice genetically engineered with a human Alzheimer’s gene—“Mouzheimer’s”—by blocking a single site of cleavage of one molecule, called APP for amyloid precursor protein. Normally, this site on APP is attacked by molecular scissors called caspases, but blocking that process prevented the disease. Now they have studied human brain tissue and found that, just as expected, patients suffering from AD clearly show more of this cleavage process than people of the same age who do not have the disease. However, when they extended their studies to much younger people without Alzheimer’s disease, they were astonished to find an apparent paradox: these younger people displayed as much as ten times the amount of the same cleavage event as the AD patients. The researchers now believe they know why. The Buck Institute study implicates a biochemical “switch” associated with that cleavage of APP, causing AD brains to become stuck in the process of breaking memories, and points to AD as a syndrome affecting the plasticity or malleability of the brain. The study, due to be published in the March 7 issue of the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, provides new insight into a molecular event resulting in decreased brain plasticity, a central feature of AD. “Young brains operate like Ferraris – shifting between forward and reverse, making and breaking memories with a facility that surpasses that of older brains, which are less plastic,” said Dale Bredesen, MD, Buck Institute faculty member and leader of the research group. “We believe that in aging brains, AD occurs when the ‘molecular shifting switch’ gets stuck in the reverse position, throwing the balance of making and breaking memories seriously off kilter.” In previous research, lead author Veronica Galvan, PhD, prevented this cleavage in mice genetically engineered to develop the amyloid plaques and deposits associated with AD. These surprising mice had normal memories and showed no signs of brain shrinkage or nerve cell damage, despite the fact that their brains were loaded with the sticky A-beta plaques that are otherwise associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
“A-beta is produced throughout the brain throughout life; we believe that it is a normal regulator of the synapses, the connections between neurons,” said Galvan, who added that AD, like cancer, is a disease in which imbalanced cell signaling plays an important role. “The fact that many people develop A-beta plaques yet show no symptoms of AD tells us that the downstream signaling of A-beta—not just A-beta itself—is critical,” said Bredesen, “and these pathways can be targeted therapeutically. Simply put, we can restore the balance.” Continuing research at the Buck Institute focuses on nerve signaling and efforts to “disconnect” the molecular mechanism that throws memory-making in the reverse direction, as well as understanding mechanisms that support brain cell connections that are crucial to the process of memory making. AD is an incurable neurodegenerative disease currently affecting 5.1 million Americans. AD results in dementia and memory loss, seriously affecting a person’s ability to carry out activities of daily living. AD costs the U.S. $148 billion annually, in addition to untold family suffering. Joining Bredesen and Galvan as co-authors of the paper, “C-terminal cleavage of the amyloid precursor protein at Asp664: a switch associated with Alzheimer’s disease” are Surita Banwait, BA; Junli Zhang, MD; Olivia F. Gorostiza, Marina Ataie, BS; Wei Huang, BS; and Danielle Crippen, BA of the Buck Institute, as well as Edward H. Koo, MD, of the University of California, San Diego, Department of Neuroscience. The work was supported by the Joseph Drown Foundation, The National Institute on Aging, S.D. Bechtel Jr., and the Alzheimer’s Association. The Buck Institute is the only freestanding institute in the United States that is devoted solely to basic research on aging and age-associated disease. The Institute is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to extending the healthspan, the healthy years of each individual’s life. The National Institute of Aging designated the Buck a “Nathan Shock Center of Excellence in the Biology of Aging,” one of just five centers in the country. Buck Institute scientists work in an innovative, interdisciplinary setting to understand the mechanisms of aging and to discover new ways of detecting, preventing and treating conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, cancer and stroke. Collaborative research at the Institute is supported by new developments in genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics technology. The Journal of Alzheimer's Disease (www.j-alz.com) is an international multidisciplinary journal to facilitate progress in understanding the etiology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, genetics, behavior, treatment and psychology of Alzheimer's disease. The journal publishes research reports, reviews, short communications, book reviews, and letters-to-the-editor. Groundbreaking research that has appeared in the journal includes novel therapeutic targets, mechanisms of disease and clinical trial outcomes. The Journal of Alzheimer's Disease has an Impact Factor of 3.058 according to Thomson Scientific Institute for Scientific Information's 2006 Journal Citation Reports. |
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In Away From Her, Julie Christie is Oscar-nominated for Best Actress for her portrayal of Fiona, a woman with Alzheimer's who voluntarily enters a long-term care facility to avoid being a burden on Grant, her husband of 50 years. After a 30-day separation (recommended by the facility), Grant visits Fiona and finds that her memory of him has deteriorated and that she's developed a close friendship with another man in the facility. Grant must draw upon the pure love and respect he has for Fiona to choose what will ensure his wife's happiness in the face of the disease. Christie has already won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture (Drama) for her performance in this movie.
What It Is: EXELON
A commonly used drug to treat the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Exelon is FDA approved for mild and moderate stages of the disease; it is also approved for the treatment of mild to moderate dementia due to Parkinson's disease.
How It Works:
Exelon is a cholinesterase inhibitor that prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine and butyrylcholine in the brain by blocking the activity of two different enzymes. Acetylcholine and butyrylcholine play a key role in memory and learning; higher levels in the brain help nerve cells communicate more efficiently.
Effectiveness:
Exelon postpones the worsening of Alzheimer's symptoms for 6 to 12 months in about half of the people who take it. For many, the improvement is minimal, yet worthwhile. Anecdotal evidence suggests that a small percentage of people may benefit more dramatically from this drug.
Dosage:
Exelon is available as a capsule, liquid, and patch. In capsule or liquid form, it's commonly started at 1.5 mg twice a day; if it's well-tolerated, the capsule or liquid dosage is increased by 3 mg a day every two weeks until the dosage reaches 6 mg twice a day. In patch form, a 4.6 mg, 5 cm patch is worn once a day for 4 weeks. If it's well-tolerated, the dosage may be increased to a 9.5 mg, 10 cm patch once a day. Your healthcare professional will determine the best dosage for you or your loved one.
Side Effects:
The most common side effects of Exelon are nausea, diarrhea, increased frequency of bowel movements, vomiting, muscle weakness, loss of appetite, weight loss, dizziness, drowsiness, and upset stomach. People who weigh less than 110 pounds may experience more severe side effects and may need to stop taking Exelon.
Potential Interactions:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, should be used with caution while taking Exelon, due to the increased risk of stomach ulcers. Exelon shouldn't be taken concurrently with similar medications or anticholinergic drugs (some antidepressants, antipsychotics, and antihistamines, for example).
Precautions:
Exelon shouldn't be used by anyone who's had an allergic reaction to rivastigmine or a similar medication. Be sure to tell your doctor about any history or current problems with stomach ulcers, including any current medications being taken for a stomach condition. If you have a heart condition or are at risk for heart disease, be sure to tell your doctor before taking Exelon, as you may experience fainting. Also, if you have a serious lung condition, bladder problems, or seizures, tell your doctor before taking Exelon.
How It Works: Exelon is a cholinesterase inhibitor that prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine and butyrylcholine in the brain by blocking the activity of two different enzymes. Acetylcholine and butyrylcholine play a key role in memory and learning; higher levels in the brain help nerve cells communicate more efficiently.
Effectiveness: Exelon postpones the worsening of Alzheimer's symptoms for 6 to 12 months in about half of the people who take it. For many, the improvement is minimal, yet worthwhile. Anecdotal evidence suggests that a small percentage of people may benefit more dramatically from this drug.
Dosage: Exelon is available as a capsule, liquid, and patch. In capsule or liquid form, it's commonly started at 1.5 mg twice a day; if it's well-tolerated, the capsule or liquid dosage is increased by 3 mg a day every two weeks until the dosage reaches 6 mg twice a day. In patch form, a 4.6 mg, 5 cm patch is worn once a day for 4 weeks. If it's well-tolerated, the dosage may be increased to a 9.5 mg, 10 cm patch once a day. Your healthcare professional will determine the best dosage for you or your loved one.
Side Effects: The most common side effects of Exelon are nausea, diarrhea, increased frequency of bowel movements, vomiting, muscle weakness, loss of appetite, weight loss, dizziness, drowsiness, and upset stomach. People who weigh less than 110 pounds may experience more severe side effects and may need to stop taking Exelon.
Potential Interactions: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, should be used with caution while taking Exelon, due to the increased risk of stomach ulcers. Exelon shouldn't be taken concurrently with similar medications or anticholinergic drugs (some antidepressants, antipsychotics, and antihistamines, for example).
Precautions: Exelon shouldn't be used by anyone who's had an allergic reaction to rivastigmine or a similar medication. Be sure to tell your doctor about any history or current problems with stomach ulcers, including any current medications being taken for a stomach condition. If you have a heart condition or are at risk for heart disease, be sure to tell your doctor before taking Exelon, as you may experience fainting. Also, if you have a serious lung condition, bladder problems, or seizures, tell your doctor before taking Exelon.
In the Spotlight
Groundbreaking Research Shows Promise
A recent report in Science Daily is brewing excitement throughout the Alzheimer's community: The Journal of Neuroinflammation published a study that showed a reversal of Alzheimer's symptoms within minutes of administering a therapeutic spinal injection.
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Six Things You Should Know About Memory Screenings
Now that Alzheimer's is recognized as a growing health problem, a variety of memory screenings have been developed and offered as a means of early detection. There are arguments on both sides of the issue regarding whether memory screenings are a good idea. In order to make an informed choice about taking a memory screening, here are six things you should know.
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Join the Forum
Learning from other caregivers and those with Alzheimer's will enrich your life and help you cope more effectively with the disease. If you have a question about Alzheimer's, or simply need to express your thoughts and feelings, please visit the Alzheimer's Forum and join the discussion.
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http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/chi-ap-il-alzheimers-sense,1,2055079.story?coll=chi-news-hed&ctrack=1&cset=true
Poor sense of smell may signal Alzheimer's
By CARLA K. JOHNSON Associated Press Writer July 2, 2007, 3:10 PM CDT CHICAGO -- Difficulty identifying common smells such as lemon, banana and cinnamon may be the first sign of Alzheimer's disease, according to a study that could lead to scratch-and-sniff tests to determine a person's risk for the progressive brain disorder. Such tests could be important if scientists find ways to slow or stop Alzheimer's and the severe memory loss associated with it. For now, there's no cure for the disease that affects more than 5 million Americans. Researchers have long known that microscopic lesions considered the hallmarks of Alzheimer's first appear in a brain region important to the sense of smell. "Strictly on the basis of anatomy, yeah, this makes sense," said Robert Franks, an expert on odor perception and the brain at the University of Cincinnati. Franks was not involved in the new study, appearing in Monday's Archives of General Psychiatry. Other studies have linked loss of smell to Alzheimer's, Franks said, but this is the first to measure healthy people's olfactory powers and follow them for five years, testing along the way for signs of mental decline. In the study, 600 people between the ages of 54 and 100 were asked to identify a dozen familiar smells: onion, lemon, cinnamon, black pepper, chocolate, rose, banana, pineapple, soap, paint thinner, gasoline and smoke. For each mystery scent, they heard and saw a choice of four answers. For cinnamon, they were asked aloud: "Fruit? Cinnamon? Woody? Or coconut?" while also seeing the choices in text. A quarter of the people correctly identified all the odors or missed only one. Half of them knew at least nine of the 12. The lowest-scoring quarter of the people correctly identified eight or fewer of the odors. The subjects took 21 cognitive tests annually over the next five years. About one-third of the people developed at least mild trouble with memory and thinking. The people who made at least four errors on the odor test were 50 percent more likely to develop problems than people who made no more than one error. Difficulty identifying odors also was associated with a higher risk of progressing from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer's. The researchers took into account age, gender, education and a history of strokes or smoking, and still found that lower scores predicted higher risk of cognitive decline. Lead author Robert Wilson of Chicago's Rush University Medical Center said a diminishing sense of smell isn't cause for panic. "Not all low scorers went on to have cognitive problems," Wilson said. Older people should report a loss in smell to their doctors, said Claire Murphy, an Alzheimer's researcher at San Diego State University who was not involved in the new study. The problem could be caused by a polyp in the nose or infected sinuses, she said. "If a person is old and has a very good sense of smell, that's a very good sign," Murphy said. The study was funded by the National Institute on Aging and the Illinois Department of Public Health. ------ On the Net: Archives of General Psychiatry: http://archpsyc.ama-assn.org/Copyright © 2007, The Associated Press  
'Creating a memory bank for mum'
By Jane Elliott
Health reporter, BBC News |
Ada Ellis' perfect day was sitting on the beach at Blackpool watching the sea and then going to a show on the pier.
She was a great Coronation Street fan. She loved darts and was a great player on her local women's team.
She has three children, grandchildren and even great-grandchildren.
But these are memories she can no longer easily tap into because Ada, 85, has Alzheimer's.
Preserving
But a book detailing her 'Life Story' is always available to prompt her and her carers.
Her daughter Joan Windrow, from Oldham, admits that much of the past is becoming lost to Ada and through her the family's link to her past.
"It was strange I didn't see her memory loss coming," said Joan.
"The day I noticed was when I went to see her and she was not having a cigarette.
"I thought she had given up, as she had done before, so I said nothing. But then I asked her if she had given up and she said she had never smoked."
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I can talk to her about holidays and the grandchildren and she can see pictures of them
Joan Windrow |
Ada became more and more fragile. It eventually became impossible for her to live at home, and she was moved to a care home.
It was here that she met volunteers from Age Concern, Oldham, who helped Ada and her family create her 'Life Story' - a personal story of all the important things and people in Ada's life.
As well as being a prompt for Ada, the file serves as a guide for her carers, family and friends about what to talk to her about.
"They got most of the information from my mum and they put it together over the course of months. It is a marvellous book," said Joan.
"It gives me a prompt and she remembers. I can talk to her about holidays and the grandchildren and she can see pictures of them.
"Her eyesight is going a bit now, but the book is great."
Scheme
Julie McBride, of Age Concern Oldham, said they had decided to set up the popular scheme following her visits to see an elderly care home resident.
She said few people at the home knew much about the lady, but that she had managed to track down distant relatives who said she had loved animals had dogs, spoke fluent German and French.
She had a German pen friend who she visited regularly and she also enjoyed classical music and Edith Piaf.
So they got her some Edith Piaf music and Julie said the response had been fantastic.
"Although the lady had difficulties communicating verbally, her facial expressions told a great deal and when we got her the music she enjoyed we could tell it made a difference to her quality of life.
"We realised that there was a great need for a service to enable 'Life Story' books to be carried out.
"'Life Story' is changing perceptions of older people and highlighting the rich lives people have lived.
"It's about seeing the person as an individual and not as an illness.
"People who read the books see the real person and everything that has made them who they are.
"'Life Story' is being done in other areas in different ways and it's really positive.
"Our project has benefits for everyone involved the person, volunteers, carers, family and staff and we think this is unique."
Memories
Professor June Andrews, director of dementia services development centre at the University of Stirling, said giving books like this to people with dementia and their families could provide a real lifeline.
"I have seen a couple of these books and I think they are excellent.
"We have research that shows that having a book like that can help people remembering.
"And in the early stages of dementia the photos can act as a prompt.
"Sometimes when a lady with dementia sees a 50-year-old walk into the room she might think it is her husband rather than her son. Photos would help."
She added that the books were also a trigger for carers and family, giving them topics to explore that allow the person with Alzheimer's talk about their memories.
Neil Hunt, chief executive of the Alzheimer's society agreed: "Memory books are a hugely beneficial way of understanding people with dementia and their history, allowing carers to find out more about them.
"As the dementia progresses these books can also serve as a valuable keepsake for families. "
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Dementia Aware
A monthly e-newsletter on developments in Dementia Research and Person-Centred Care
Issue No. 20 – April 2007
The aim of "Dementia Aware" is to keep you up-to-date with new developments in dementia research and person-centred care, and let you know about opportunities for professional development. We hope this information proves useful to you and please
email our Resource Officer, Laurina
if you have any suggestions or you would like to be removed from the mailing list.
Test can detect Alzheimer’s in blood
French firm Exonhit Therapeutics said it has identified a panel of genes that allows Alzheimer's disease to be diagnosed from a blood test.
Click here to read the Full Article
Nicotine enhances learning and memory
Researchers have shown that nicotine enhances learning and memory launching efforts to develop nicotine-like drugs to treat cognitive deficits in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
Click here to read the Full Article
Research could lead to treatment for Alzheimer's disease
A molecule designed by a Purdue University researcher could lead to the first drug treatment for Alzheimer's disease.
Click here to read the Full Article
'Chemical cosh' early death risk
Patients with dementia are dying early because they are being prescribed sedative drugs inappropriately in nursing homes.
Click here to read the Full Article
Wanderer creates special situation for a caregiver
Wandering is a particularly difficult problem associated with the middle stages of dementia.
Click here to read the Full Article
Wear your memory around your neck
A camera has been developed to help Alzheimer's sufferers improve their memory.
Click here to read the Full Article
European research helps people with dementia to navigate their day
A recently launched project aims to help people to remember, maintain social contact, perform daily life activities and enhance their feelings of safety.
Click here to read the Full Article
Living with Alzheimer’s before a window closes
There is a window of opportunity for people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease to reason, communicate and go about life with a bit of help from those around.
Click here to read the Full Article
Hospice forum explores various therapies; music, pets used for dementia patients
A hospice in Arizona uses pet and music therapy to connect with late-stage dementia patients, who are often the most difficult to reach.
Click here to read the Full Article
Advance Notice!
Well-being Planning for People with Dementia – 3-Hour interactive workshop
Thursday, 17 May (1.00 pm – 4.00 pm)
9 Bedbrook Place, Shenton Park
This workshop for coordinators/assessors involved in the provision of services for people with dementia, recognises that care planning is a dynamic process that acknowledges the personhood and promotes the well-being of a person with dementia. .
FREE
for staff from HACC funded agencies who apply through HTTB
All other participants $55 per person (incl. GST) – includes afternoon tea and workbook See
our website
for more information.
Award-winning website providing information for people living with dementia.
Alzheimer’s Australia WA Ltd does not endorse the content of any article referred to in this newsletter. Articles cited are presented for information purposes only as part of our current awareness service
.
6/27/2007 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM - Early Stage Alzheimer's Disease: Successful Interactions and Interventions: San Francisco, CA
Explore ways to work with people who have early stage dementia. Focus on vitality and capability. Participants will come away with: Understanding the process of early diagnosis and its importance. Fluency on the issues people with early dementia face and how to provide support in various settings.
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Interpreting the Flurry of Alzheimer's Disease News
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Dr. David Roeltgen wrote this editorial regarding Alzheimer's disease therapies in the news.
He says, "It has been an interesting couple of weeks in the field of Alzheimer's disease. On one hand, there are some dire predictions about the number of people in coming decades that will have this disorder. On the other hand, there is some exciting news about potential treatments." Roeltgen goes on to say that it is important to understand how new research findings are perceived, interpreted and reacted to. There are a couple of potential new medications, that are not yet approved for use in Alzheimer's disease, that appear to improve the functional capacity of many patients with Alzheimer's disease to a small, but significant extent. For many of us as individuals, such findings are encouraging, but we would like to hear about medications that significantly delay or reverse the disease. In contrast, as a public health problem, even a small improvement in many patients can be appreciated as a major advance in healthcare.
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