Latest news with #Gibbs
The Star
10 hours ago
- Health
- The Star
A neurologist shares his journey with Alzheimer's disease
It was 2006 when Dr Daniel Gibbs first noticed he was losing his sense of smell. But it wasn't what he didn't smell that tipped him off that something might be wrong. It was what he did smell: perfume, mixed with baked bread – 'The same thing, every time,' he said. The neurologist in Portland, Oregon, United States, knew this was an olfactory hallucination. And that meant something wasn't working properly in his brain. 'I attributed it to getting older, which is a common cause of decreased ability to smell,' he said. But Dr Gibbs was just 57 – not so old that he should be losing his sense of anything. 'I also knew losing your sense of smell was an early sign of Parkinson's disease, so I thought it might be that.' It wasn't. Dr Gibbs was experiencing an early symptom of Alzheimer's disease. But it would be another six years before he knew it. He has since written a book about his experience, which was turned into a documentary. He also keeps a regular blog to help people understand what it's like to live with Alzheimer's. These days, he spends a lot of his time learning and talking about how to slow progression of the disease – something he's been trying to do since he got his diagnosis more than a decade ago. Dr Gibbs and his wife, Lois Seed, discussed what he's learned about Alzheimer's dementia and how he navigates the condition for The Experts Say , an American Heart Association News series in which specialists explain how they apply their professional knowledge to their own lives. Their remarks have been edited in the below Q&A. When did you realise your symptoms were due to Alzheimer's disease? Dr Gibbs: In 2012, Lois was doing a genealogical project, so we did some genetic testing. Mine came back showing I had two copies of APOE4, a gene known to influence the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, which totally gobsmacked me. Having two copies means it is almost certain to eventually cause Alzheimer's. I had no measurable cognitive impairment at that time. I was in charge of the neurology resident training programme at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, and I was seeing patients in the clinic, so it was a very busy year for me. Even though it was difficult, I was still able to get all the balls to balance in the air. What did you do once you knew your genetic risk for Alzheimer's? Dr Gibbs: The first thing I did was to go to one of my colleagues and have some cognitive testing done. It was essentially normal with the caveat that all of my cognitive domains were in the 90th percentile except verbal memory, which was in the 50th percentile. So there was a strong hint that there was some incipient loss of function of verbal memory. With that in hand, I went to my department chair and explained the situation. I had no impairment, but did not feel it was safe for me to continue to practice. I retired in 2013. Seed: You also went looking for studies you could join, because it's a big deal to see people before they experience symptoms. Dr Gibbs: That's right, I went to the University of California in San Francisco, because they have a ton of studies there. The first study I was involved with was a longitudinal neuroimaging study. I had PET (positron emission tomography) scans of abnormal amyloid and PET scans for tau proteins – two protein clusters in the brain that play a role in the development of Alzheimer's disease. And I had cognitive testing. They loved having me down there because they rarely have people with as early a stage of disease as I showed up with. About a year later, I joined a clinical trial for an anti-amyloid antibody drug that is now approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat early Alzheimer's disease. What else did you learn about how to slow progression of the disease? Dr Gibbs: This is not rocket science. The sort of things that are good preventive behaviour for brain disease are also good for preventing heart and vascular disease. There are evidence-based lifestyle changes that include: Getting daily aerobic exercise Eating a Mediterranean-style diet, such as the MIND diet Getting mentally-stimulating activity Staying socially engaged Getting at least seven hours of sleep nightly, and Getting good control of any cerebrovascular risk factors, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and smoking. What's good for the heart is good for the brain! Dr Gibbs notes that it is difficult to know what to expect as his Alzheimer's progresses as previously, most people with the disease were only living three to five years after the diagnosis as they were being diagnosed late. How do you put this knowledge into practice? Dr Gibbs: Walking is just built into my day. I do it with my dog, Jack, an 11-year-old English cocker spaniel who is about to age out. He can't keep up with 10,000 steps as easily any more, so I take some walks by myself. We live in the hills, so I'm getting very good aerobic exercise, short of running. I used to go to the gym, but that stopped at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. I also have a short workout at home. The first thing I do is I use resistance bands, which is a strength exercise. That takes about 15 minutes, and then I do tai chi pretty religiously, something I started six months ago. I can clearly see that it helps my balance, but I can't see if it helps my brain, which is continuing to do more poorly. And thanks to Lois, I've been eating a healthy diet, really forever. Seed: I didn't have control over those french fries you were eating. Dr Gibbs: I don't eat red meat any more. I closely follow the MIND diet, which is essentially the Mediterranean diet with more berries and nuts. It includes a heavy focus on fruits and vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables, beans, nuts, whole grains, seafood, lean poultry, and uses olive oil to cook. I'm quite happy with it. ALSO READ: What is MIND, the diet that may help protect against Alzheimer's disease? Because I lost my sense of smell, which is totally gone now, I have virtually no taste either. I eat the same thing for lunch and breakfast every day. I enjoy it. I make a sandwich on whole wheat bread that has tuna salad and garbanzo beans, avocado and arugula to get the dark leafy greens. Then some grapes or bananas, and half a dark chocolate bar. Breakfast is homemade granola, and I add cranberries or blueberries. I throw walnuts in as well. Dinner is whatever Lois picks that I can eat. I stopped drinking alcohol. There's no safe amount of alcohol if you are on this trajectory. So I got rid of it, but I used to love red wine. Do you know what to expect as the disease progresses? Dr Gibbs: That's a difficult question to answer. In the old days, when people got a diagnosis of Alzheimer's, they were only living three to five years after that because we made the diagnosis so late. There's less information out there about people who have known they have the disease for a long time and how they will do going forward. Seed: There's a lot of confusion and misconception because there are different types of dementia. Alzheimer's tends to progress more slowly. The early stage can last 20 years. Here we are 13 years after his diagnosis and Dan's really doing well. I'm a little more of a caregiver than I was a few years ago, but not by much. He dresses himself and monitors medications, and people who talk to him casually wouldn't even know. We've been at that plateau for quite some time. How would you describe the stage you're at right now? Dr Gibbs: Right now, I have mild Alzheimer's dementia. To say you have dementia is to say you are having trouble managing your personal affairs. I'm just at a stage now where I can't balance a chequebook. And as things go along, I will have more problems with memory and the ability to recognise people and remember their names. I've lost my train of thought. Seed: You were talking about what stage you're at. Dr Gibbs: When I'm not remembering where I am, then I will have severe dementia. There are memories I have going back through my whole life. They tend to be events that are emotionally-laden. I'm terrible with names. I know my immediate family members. My neighbours, I forget their names. Lois is taking over the things I can't manage any more, like the financial part of our lives, anything that involves planning ahead, scheduling, calendars, remembering all the family stuff, managing the household. She also goes with me when I have a talk to give. Seed: He gives talks on Alzheimer's, but almost every time that Dan is getting ready to speak to a group, he gets frustrated and says, 'This is the last time I'm doing this,' because getting his thoughts together is challenging. He writes out notes. Most of the talks he gives now are screening events for the film with question-and-answer sessions. Dr Gibbs: It works well if Lois is there to find ... Seed: Words. Dr Gibbs: That makes it easier. – By Laura Williamson/American Heart Association News/Tribune News Service
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
In NCIS: Origins Season 2, Will Gibbs Go From ‘Probie' to Assertive Agent? EP Previews ‘Honest' Evolution Ahead
How long does it take for a probie to start blossoming into a truly special NIS agent? That is the question I and probably other NCIS: Origins viewers have, heading into Season 2 of the prequel spinoff (now airing Tuesdays at 9, this fall!). More from TVLine Casting News: Chicago Fire Adds On Call's Brandon Larracuente, Shane Gillis to Host ESPYS and More FBI: International Co-Creator Reacts to Cancellation, Believes It 'Had Nothing to Do With the Quality' of Spinoff Matlock Season 2 Video: Stars Preview 'Storms Colliding' for Dad-to-Be Billy, 'So Much Trouble' for Sarah NCIS: Origins, starring Austin Stowell as Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, didn't put up 'huge' Nielsen numbers, but it was well-received for what it is — a wonderfully cast deep-dive into The Man Who Would One Day Become Boss' first days at NIS' Camp Pendleton office. (TVLine readers gave Season 1 an average grade of 'A.') Working under Mike Franks (Kyle Schmid) and Lala Dominguez (Mariel Molino), alongside 'Randy' Randolf (Caleb Foote) and Vera Strickland (Diany Rodriguez), and with support from 'HSIC' Mary Jo Hayes (Tyla Abercrumbie), Gibbs kept a (very) low profile to start, and only recently started to more loudly voice his opinions. In fact, it was what Gibbs was up to outside of the team's Quonset hut that drew more attention, especially when his role in drug lord Pedro Hernandez's murder was confirmed for Franks and others. There's no hard and fast rule for when a 'probie' can shrug off that dismissive designation — it's arguably around a year, Google tells me? — but while Gibbs is, yes, the 'new guy' on the team, it only gets more and more disheartening to see him in so supportive a capacity, and never steering any investigations (outside of the whole Bugs/second sniper mystery that bookended Season 1). Gibbs will one day run the D.C. office, very effectively and for a long while, so I hope to see sparks of that leadership potential 'flicker' more and more occasionally in NCIS: Origins Season 2. That is why I asked co-showrunners David J. North and Gina Lucita Monreal if Gibbs will in fact 'be a bit more active, speak up more, and have a say in investigations' during the show's sophomore run. 'We're inching our way there, definitely, in a way that we think is honest for the character,' North told me. 'I mean, just take the fact that in Season 1, we know Gibbs' gut was churning a little bit about Bugs and thinking, 'Maybe there's more to this story?'' North reminded. 'But Gibbs didn't go down that path, he didn't gnaw at Franks and say, 'Hey, my gut…' — and he learned in the end he was right. Those are all stepping stones toward becoming the Gibbs that we met in 2003.' What do you think of the bosses' 'honest' approach to Gibbs' evolution? Can you/we be patient a bit longer, to get more vivid hints of the D.C. office's oneday 'Boss'? Want scoop on , or for any other TV show? Shoot an email to InsideLine@ and your question may be answered via Matt's Inside Line! Best of TVLine Summer TV Calendar: Your Guide to 85+ Season and Series Premieres Classic Christmas Movies Guide: Where to Watch It's a Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street, Elf, Die Hard and Others What's New on Netflix in June
Miami Herald
4 days ago
- Business
- Miami Herald
Pizza Hut makes big menu change amid startling customer behavior
It is no secret that consumers nationwide are pulling back their spending on fast food for several reasons, such as to save money due to concerns about inflation and tariffs. Also, more consumers are pivoting towards healthier foods, a trend that blossomed after the Covid pandemic. Fast-food prices have also increased by roughly 47% over the past decade, which has scared away many consumers struggling to afford a higher cost of living. Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter A survey from LendingTree last year found that 78% of Americans view fast food as a luxury, since it has become less affordable. Also, 62% of Americans said they're eating less fast food due to rising prices, and 56% said they choose to make food at home when they want an easy and cheap meal. Related: Pizza Hut struggles to reverse troubling consumer trend Amid this consumer trend, Pizza Hut, which is owned by Yum Brands (YUM) , saw its system sales in the U.S. decrease by 7% year-over-year during the quarter, and its operating profit dipped by a whopping 20%. During an earnings call in April, Yum Brands CEO David Gibbs said Pizza Hut's sales performance in the U.S. was "disappointing" and flagged that the pizza chain was operating in an "intense competitive environment." "Pizza Hut is in a tough category right now in QSR (quick-service restaurants) in the U.S., and certainly the pizza category with everybody reporting negative sales is pressured," said Gibbs during the call. "But we've obviously seen Pizza Hut have significant growth in years past when they get the offerings right for consumers, like with melts and value." Image source: Shannon O'Hara/Getty Images To help attract customers back into its stores, Pizza Hut is shaking up its menu with four new limited-edition items at discounted prices. The pizza chain has launched Hut Lover's Pizzas, which include a new Spicy Hawaiian Lover's pizza that contains "spicy marinara sauce, ham, bacon, pineapple, jalapeño, and red chili flakes," according to a new press release. Related: Domino's Pizza suffers a startling loss as customers switch gears It also introduced a Meat Lover's pizza, which is topped with "pepperoni, Italian sausage, ham, bacon, seasoned pork, and beef." Pizza Hut's new Pepperoni Lover's pizza just contains extra cheese and pepperoni, while its new Veggie Lover's pizza is loaded with "mushrooms, onions, green peppers, diced tomatoes, and black olives." A large size of one of these pizzas costs $12.99. This is a deal, because a large pizza at Pizza Hut usually costs a little under $20, depending on the region. The new announcement from Pizza Hut comes after it recently made several bold attempts this year to win back customers. More Food + Dining: Papa Johns makes major menu change to win back customersSteak 'n Shake's beef tallow fries aren't as healthy as they appearChick-fil-A angers customers with major change in stores In February, it introduced its Ultimate Hut Bundle. This deal allows customers to order two medium pizzas, any eight boneless wings, sticks, and two dipping sauces, starting at $24.99. The following month, Pizza Hut brought back Cheesy Bites Pizza, a fan-favorite menu item, for a limited time. It also introduced three new exclusive dipping sauces: Chipotle Ranch, Ultimate Ranch, and Pepperoni Ranch. During the earnings call in April, Gibbs said that Pizza Hut will focus on its "3D strategy" to boost its sales going forward. This strategy includes "distinctive offerings for group occasions, dependable everyday value through platforms such as the $7 deal levers, and disruptive innovation to gain share in a competitive market." Related: McDonald's to suffer massive boycott from customers The Arena Media Brands, LLC THESTREET is a registered trademark of TheStreet, Inc.
Express Tribune
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Freddie Gibbs and The Alchemist announce sequel album 'Alfredo 2'
Freddie Gibbs and renowned producer The Alchemist have officially announced their next collaborative album, Alfredo 2, a direct sequel to their acclaimed 2020 project Alfredo. The announcement has ignited widespread anticipation across hip-hop circles, with many fans expressing excitement and speculation about whether the new project will match or surpass the original's critical success. Alfredo, which earned a Grammy nomination and widespread acclaim for its lyrical depth and lush production, helped solidify both Gibbs and The Alchemist as one of hip-hop's strongest rapper-producer duos. With Alfredo 2, expectations are high for a similarly impactful release. Early social media reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with fans praising the chemistry between Gibbs and The Alchemist and highlighting their consistent output over the years. Some fans also noted a renewed appreciation for The Alchemist's versatility and distinctive sound following the album announcement. While a specific release date for Alfredo 2 has not been confirmed, the project is expected to drop sometime in 2025. The album will likely feature a blend of gritty lyricism, soulful samples, and minimalistic but hard-hitting beats—hallmarks of the pair's earlier work. As more details emerge, fans and critics alike are watching closely to see how Alfredo 2 will contribute to the duo's evolving legacy in modern hip-hop.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
NFL analysts spotlight Detroit Lions' breakout stars set to lead on both sides of the ball in 2025
The Detroit Lions aren't those likable underdogs anymore. After a thrilling 2024 season that saw them capture the No. 1 seed in the NFC and generate hope all over Motor City, the Lions are now seriously being considered a legitimate contender. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Even after their humiliating 45-31 Divisional Round defeat at the hands of the Washington Commanders, the hype in Detroit hasn't decreased—rather, it's stronger than ever. Why? The Lions' roster is full of breakout heroes on offense and defense. And as experts throughout the NFL break down 2025 projections, they're zeroing in on Detroit's rising core as one of the more compelling in the league. Detroit Lions signed big names on the offense roster with bigger figures Once set to be labeled as a bust, Jared Goff is being heralded these days as one of the top value quarterbacks in the NFC. With a confident touch and commanding leadership of the offense, Goff delivered a gem of an 83.4 PFF rating last season. Experts are in consensus, this isn't luck. Peter Schrager, ESPN NFL Analyst, even went as far as to call him "the most important player in the NFC' on June 23rd 2025. With the Lions replacing their offensive coordinator, Goff's leadership will be essential to keeping the machine running. But every phenomenal quarterback needs a star wide receiver, and Amon-Ra St. Brown is the man. The two-time First-Team All-Pro wideout compiled 115 catches for 1,263 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2024 and became Goff's trusted target in each situation. And then there's Detroit lightning bolt running back Jahmyr Gibbs. In his sophomore season, Gibbs racked up a 1,929 scrimmage yards and 20 scores. And protecting them all is offensive tackle Penei Sewell, the rock on the offensive line. The back-to-back All-Pro allowed just one sack in over 600 pass-blocking snaps last year. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Detroit Lions' defense got new faces like Aidan Hutchinson to make the same roar On defense, all are holding their collective breaths for defensive end Aidan Hutchinson. While a midseason injury cut short his 2024 season, Hutchinson's 7.5 sacks in five games were a bitter reminder of what he is capable of doing to his arch nemesis. Now healthy, he's purported to fortify the pass rush and lead a reconstituted defensive line. Kerby Joseph was a legitimate ball-hawk in 2024 with nine interceptions, a league best, and even scored one back. Brian Branch, coming off a Pro Bowl season, showed he's among the NFL's most multi-faceted defenders with 109 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 16 pass breakups. Together, they're a dynamic twosome of Detroit's rising secondary. With playmakers Goff, St. Brown, Gibbs, Hutchinson, Joseph, and Branch leading the charge, the Lions have the star firepower to go deep once more. If the rest of the roster stays healthy and new acquisitions work out, 2025 is the year that Detroit might finally convert potential into a Super Bowl bid. Get ready, NFL, the Lions are ready to roar. Also Read:
