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Heavy drinking linked to increased risk of brain lesions

Heavy drinkers who have eight or more alcoholic drinks per week have an increased risk of brain lesions called hyaline arteriolosclerosis, signs of brain injury that are associated with memory and thinking problems, according to a study published on April 9, 2025, online in Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. The […]

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Heavy drinking linked to increased risk of brain lesions

Heavy drinkers who have eight or more alcoholic drinks per week have an increased risk of brain lesions called hyaline arteriolosclerosis, signs of brain injury that are associated with memory and thinking problems, according to a study published on April 9, 2025, online in Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. The study does not prove that heavy drinking causes brain injury; it only shows an association.

Hyaline arteriolosclerosis is a condition that causes the small blood vessels to narrow, becoming thick and stiff. This makes it harder for blood to flow, which can damage the brain over time. It appears as lesions, areas of damaged tissue in the brain.

Heavy alcohol consumption is a major global health concern linked to increased health problems and death. We looked at how alcohol affects the brain as people get older. Our research shows that heavy alcohol consumption is damaging to the brain, which can lead to memory and thinking problems.”

Alberto Fernando Oliveira Justo, PhD, study author of University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Brazil

The study included 1,781 people who had an average age of 75 at death. All had brain autopsies.

Researchers examined brain tissue to look for signs of brain injury including tau tangles and hyaline arteriolosclerosis. They also measured brain weight and the height of each participant.

Family members answered questions about participants’ alcohol consumption.

Researchers then divided the participants into four groups: 965 people who never drank, 319 moderate drinkers who had seven or fewer drinks per week; 129 heavy drinkers who had eight or more drinks per week; and 368 former heavy drinkers. Researchers defined one drink as having 14 grams of alcohol, which is about 350 milliliters (ml) of beer, 150 ml of wine or 45 ml of distilled spirits.

Of those who never drank, 40% had vascular brain lesions. Of the moderate drinkers, 45% had vascular brain lesions. Of the heavy drinkers, 44% had vascular brain lesions. Of the former heavy drinkers, 50% had vascular brain lesions.

After adjusting for factors that could affect brain health such as age at death, smoking and physical activity, heavy drinkers had 133% higher odds of having vascular brain lesions compared to those who never drank, former heavy drinkers had 89% higher odds and moderate drinkers, 60%.

Researchers also found heavy and former heavy drinkers had higher odds of developing tau tangles, a biomarker associated with Alzheimer’s disease, with 41% and 31% higher odds, respectively.

Former heavy drinking was associated with a lower brain mass ratio, a smaller proportion of brain mass compared to body mass, and worse cognitive abilities. No link was found between moderate or heavy drinking and brain mass ratio or cognitive abilities.

Justo noted that, in addition to brain injuries, impaired cognitive abilities were observed only in former drinkers.

Researchers also found that heavy drinkers died an average of 13 years earlier than those who never drank.

“We found heavy drinking is directly linked to signs of injury in the brain, and this can cause long-term effects on brain health, which may impact memory and thinking abilities,” said Justo. “Understanding these effects is crucial for public health awareness and continuing to implement preventive measures to reduce heavy drinking.”

A limitation of the study was that it did not look at participants before death and did not have information on the duration of alcohol consumption and cognitive abilities.

The study was supported by The São Paulo Research Foundation.

American Academy of Neurology

Journal reference:

Shu, L., et al. (2025). Incidence Trends and Risk of Recurrent Stroke of Cervical Artery Dissections in the United States Between 2005 and 2019. Neurology. doi.org/10.1212/wnl.0000000000213548.

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AP Sports SummaryBrief at 6

Officials work to unravel how and why gunman carried out deadly attack on NYC office building NEW YORK (AP) — Investigators are piecing together more details about how a former high school football player who blamed the game for his mental health problems carried out a deadly attack on an office building that is home […]

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AP Sports SummaryBrief at 6

Officials work to unravel how and why gunman carried out deadly attack on NYC office building

NEW YORK (AP) — Investigators are piecing together more details about how a former high school football player who blamed the game for his mental health problems carried out a deadly attack on an office building that is home to the NFL. Authorities say Shane Tamura killed four people on Monday before killing himself. Officials say he had a handwritten note claiming he had chronic traumatic encephalopathy, known at CTE, and accused the league of hiding the dangers of brain injuries linked to contact sports. Investigators plan to question a man who supplied gun parts for the AR-15-style rifle used in the attack, including the weapon’s lower receiver.

Here’s what to know about CTE, the brain disease the NYC shooter blamed for his mental health issues

BOSTON (AP) — The man who killed four people in the New York City skyscraper that is home to NFL headquarters carried a note blaming the league for his mental health problems. Shane Tamura played football in high school. He said in the three-page note found in his wallet that he had chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a degenerative brain disease that can’t be diagnosed until death, and implored those who found him to study his brain. CTE has been linked to concussions in contact sports. The disease has been diagnosed in more than 100 former NFL players and arisen as an existential threat to the United States’ most powerful pro sports league.

NFL reacts to the shooting at the league office building that killed 4 people

NEW YORK (AP) — Players and coaches around the NFL reacted with shock and sadness Tuesday after a gunman killed four people at the New York office building housing the league’s headquarters. Brian Daboll of the New York Giants, Aaron Glenn of the Jets, Ben Johnson of the Chicago Bears and Raheem Morris of the Atlanta Falcons offered their thoughts and prayers to the victims of Monday’s shooting. Mayor Eric Adams said the gunman was trying to target NFL headquarters but took the wrong elevator. Tennessee Titans NFLPA representative Jeffery Simmons cited the importance of mental health in conversations with fellow players.

Questions emerge about NYC gunman’s mental health and his security-sensitive job in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (AP) — The gunman in the deadly shooting at a New York City office tower had a background in casino surveillance and once held a private security guard license. Authorities say 27-year-old Shane Tamura drove from Las Vegas to New York to carry out the attack on Monday. They say he was targeting the NFL headquarters but took the wrong elevator. Tamura killed four people then took his own life. He left a note blaming the NFL for brain injuries linked to contact sports. He claimed to have chronic traumatic encephalopathy. Police are investigating his mental health history and how he acquired firearms used in the attack.

A rare first for Ohtani: Dodgers superstar strikes out in his first 4 plate appearances

CINCINNATI (AP) — Los Angeles Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani had another first in his MLB career. Ohtani struck out in his first four plate appearances Tuesday night against the Cincinnati Reds, the first time he has done that in his eight seasons in the majors. It is the sixth time the Japanese superstar and reigning NL MVP has struck out four times in a game. It is the second time this season, with the other coming against San Diego on June 17. Despite Ohtani’s tough night at the plate, the Dodgers rallied for a 5-4 victory on an RBI double by Will Smith in the ninth inning.

Trump gave the USOPC cover on its transgender athlete policy change. It could end up in court anyway

The Trump administration has pushed to remove transgender athletes from Olympic sports. They provided a legal brief to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) explaining how this move aligns with the Ted Stevens Act. This guidance led the USOPC to change its policy, requiring national governing bodies to update their participation rules. Olympic legal expert Jill Pilgrim believes the policy could face legal challenges if a transgender athlete is excluded. The USOPC’s new policy replaces one based on data and science. The committee aims for compliance by the end of the year, amid criticism and legal uncertainties.

Braves All-Star OF Ronald Acuña Jr. leaves with Achilles tendon tightness and will go to IL

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. is heading for the 10-day injured list. Acuña was removed from Tuesday night’s loss at Kansas City with tightness in his right Achilles tendon. Acuña experienced the discomfort after chasing down a ball in right field. He’ll be evaluated further on Wednesday. Acuña said he initially felt pain while running the bases on Monday night. The discomfort returned after he ran for a foul ball in the sixth inning Tuesday night. Later in the inning, a ball was hit over his head and he gave chase. He left the game after the sixth.

All-Pro Trey Hendrickson ends holdout and will report to Bengals, AP source says

CINCINNATI (AP) — Trey Hendrickson is ending his holdout and will report to the Cincinnati Bengals on Wednesday. That’s according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the move had not been announced. Hendrickson is an All-Pro defensive end who led the NFL in sacks last season with 17 1/2. He is seeking a long-term extension with guaranteed money that matches what the league’s top pass rushers are earning. Even after he reports to camp, he is unlikely to participate in practice until a deal is in place.

Coco Gauff overcomes 23 double-faults for first win since French Open title

MONTREAL (AP) — Coco Gauff made a winning return to competition, even though some old serving woes came back with her. Gauff had to overcome 23 double-faults to win for the first time since the French Open final, outlasting fellow American Danielle Collins 7-5, 4-6, 7-6 (2) in the second round of the National Bank Open in Montreal on Tuesday night. Gauff hadn’t played since losing in the first round at Wimbledon and appeared to have made a change to her serving grip during her time away. She struggled with it during the match, hitting some serves that were well long and others that were soft and easily pounced on by the powerful Collins.

Katie Ledecky remains unbeatable in the 1,500 freestyle taking the title again at the worlds

SINGAPORE (AP) — Katie Ledecky has ceded a tiny bit of ground in other events, but she’s still unbeatable in the 1,500-meter freestyle. She won it again Tuesday in the swimming world championships in Singapore, finishing in 15 minutes, 26.44 seconds. Simona Quadarella of Italy took silver in 15:31.79 – a European record – with bronze for Lani Pallister of Australia in 15:41.18 in a very quick-paced race. Ledecky was ahead of her world-record pace through 1,250 meters, pushed early by Pallister. It was Ledecky’s second medal in these games after taking bronze in the 400 free behind Canadian Summer McIntosh.

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Officials work to unravel how and why gunman carried out deadly attack on NYC office building

NEW YORK (AP) — Investigators are piecing together more details about how a former high school football player who blamed the game for his mental health problems carried out a deadly attack on an office building that is home to the NFL. 1

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Officials work to unravel how and why gunman carried out deadly attack on NYC office building

NEW YORK (AP) — Investigators are piecing together more details about how a former high school football player who blamed the game for his mental health problems carried out a deadly attack on an office building that is home to the NFL.

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Here's what to know about CTE, the brain disease the NYC shooter blamed for his mental

BOSTON (AP) — The degenerative brain disease that has besieged the National Football League for two decades with a billion-dollar lawsuit, congressional hearings, an A-list movie and an unrelenting cortege of ex-players’ obituaries has now intruded on America’s favorite sport in the most violent manner yet. The Las Vegas casino worker who killed four people […]

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Here's what to know about CTE, the brain disease the NYC shooter blamed for his mental ...

BOSTON (AP) — The degenerative brain disease that has besieged the National Football League for two decades with a billion-dollar lawsuit, congressional hearings, an A-list movie and an unrelenting cortege of ex-players’ obituaries has now intruded on America’s favorite sport in the most violent manner yet.

The Las Vegas casino worker who killed four people in a New York City skyscraper that is home to the NFL’s headquarters carried a note blaming the league for mental health problems he attributed to his time as a high school football player.

Shane Tamura, 27, said in a three-page note found in his wallet that he had chronic traumatic encephalopathy — diagnosable only after death — and implored those who found him: “Study my brain.” Among his grievances against the NFL was a claim that the league put its profits ahead of player safety by concealing the harm CTE, and football, can cause.

Echoing an eerie trend in NFL player suicides, he shot himself in the chest, preserving his brain for an autopsy that could confirm whether his layman’s diagnosis was correct.

A degenerative brain disease that has been linked to concussions and other head trauma common in military combat and contact sports, CTE has been diagnosed in more than 100 former NFL players and arisen as an existential threat to the United States’ most powerful pro sports league.

Its dangers have led some states to consider banning youth football, prompted leagues at most levels to limit contact drills in practice, and spawned a series of concussion protocols and other rule changes designed to take the most violent edges off the hard-hitting sport.

Here is what we know and don’t know about the connection between CTE, the NFL and the shooter.

What is CTE?

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy can affect regions of the brain involved with regulating behavior and emotions. This can lead to memory loss, depression, violent mood swings and other cognitive and behavioral issues, though researchers note that these symptoms can also be linked to other illnesses.

Experts say symptoms can arise years or decades after the last brain trauma. Evidence of the disease has been found not just in those with long professional careers but in high school athletes as well.

Why is it associated with the NFL?

Researchers have established a connection between CTE and contact sports, military combat and other activities with repeated blows to the head. After more than a decade of denial, the NFL conceded the link between football and CTE in 2016 testimony before Congress, and has so far paid more than $1.4 billion to retired players to settle concussion-related claims.

The 2015 Will Smith film “Concussion” detailed the pioneering efforts of forensic pathologist Bennet Omalu, whose diagnosis of CTE in Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame center Mike Webster was the first in a former NFL player. Hall of Famers Ken Stabler, Frank Gifford and Junior Seau have also been diagnosed with CTE, as has Aaron Hernandez; in a 2017 paper, evidence of the disease was found 110 of the 111 former NFL players’ brains studied.

Did the NFL headquarters shooter have CTE?

It’s not possible to say.

For now, CTE can only be diagnosed definitively by examining the brain posthumously through an autopsy. According to Boston University’s Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy Center, progressive degeneration of brain tissue in people with CTE includes the buildup of an abnormal protein called tau in a pattern that distinguishes it from other diseases such as Alzheimer’s.


Associated Press writers Maryclaire Dale and Laura Ungar contributed to this story.

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AWG Group unveils Magnum Sports Complex

Cebu’s sports and wellness landscape is set for a significant transformation with the opening of the Magnum Sports Complex on July 17, 2025. Magnum Sports Complex stands as the ultimate destination, meticulously designed to cater to everyone from the seasoned athlete to the casual player and wellness enthusiast. Developed by the AWG Group of Companies, […]

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AWG Group unveils Magnum Sports Complex

Cebu’s sports and wellness landscape is set for a significant transformation with the opening of the Magnum Sports Complex on July 17, 2025.

Magnum Sports Complex stands as the ultimate destination, meticulously designed to cater to everyone from the seasoned athlete to the casual player and wellness enthusiast.

Developed by the AWG Group of Companies, this ₱300 million, 1.5-hectare, 3-story facility strategically located on San Miguel Road, Apas —just a short distance from the bustling IT Park—is poised to become Cebu’s comprehensive hub for both recreational activities and serious athletic pursuits.

A vision realized: power, presence, and purpose

AWG Group unveils Magnum Sports Complex: Cebu's game-changing hub for health & athletics

The opening of Magnum Sports Complex was a testament to community spirit, drawing support from personnel, distinguished guests, and leaders across Cebu’s diverse sports communities. Spearheaded by Atty. Augusto W. Go and Elizabeth Gan-Go, the event showcased the complex’s extensive array of state-of-the-art facilities, meticulously designed to ignite the passion of every sports enthusiast and fitness lover.

The name “Magnum” was a deliberate choice, resonating with power, presence, and purpose. It encapsulates the complex’s ambition to be a central hub for sports, fostering passion, discipline, and a strong sense of community. Atty. Go highlighted the urgent need for such a facility in Cebu, stating with conviction, “Cebu needs something like this.” 

Your ultimate sports and wellness destination

AWG Group unveils Magnum Sports Complex: Cebu's game-changing hub for health & athletics

Atty. Augusto W. Go

Magnum Sports Complex stands as the ultimate destination, meticulously designed to cater to everyone from the seasoned athlete to the casual player and wellness enthusiast. This state-of-the-art facility boasts an impressive and diverse range of amenities, ensuring that every passion and pursuit is addressed with top-tier equipment and premium materials.

  • A Haven for Team Sports: For those who thrive in team environments, Magnum Sports Complex offers an exceptional lineup. The tennis court features premium Tiger Turf Elite grass from New Zealand, providing a world-class playing surface. Basketball enthusiasts will appreciate the FIBA-standard indoor courts, while volleyball courts, pickleball courts, and six dedicated badminton courts round out the extensive offerings for group play.
  • Dedicated Spaces for Individual Pursuits: Individuals seeking focused practice or leisurely activity will find their niche here. The complex provides dedicated spaces for table tennis, an indoor archery range for precision training, and billiard tables for a classic game.
  • Elevating Wellness and Training: Magnum Sports Complex is equally committed to holistic well-being and advanced training. A serene yoga studio offers a tranquil space for mindfulness and flexibility, while a dedicated martial arts studio caters to various disciplines. The innovative tennis simulator provides an immersive training experience, and a fully equipped wellness gym supports all fitness goals, making it an ideal environment for enhancing physical and mental health.

 
 

Beyond the sports facilities, the complex also includes food kiosks and ample parking for over 100 vehicles, ensuring convenience for all visitors. Its spacious design also allows for the future hosting of special events, with the basketball court bleachers alone accommodating up to 200 people.

Catering to demand and charting the future

AWG Group unveils Magnum Sports Complex: Cebu's game-changing hub for health & athletics

Elizabeth Gan-Go and Dondon Hontiveros

Recognizing the unique needs of surrounding BPO companies in IT Park, Elizabeth Gan-Go revealed plans for 24-hour operation, noting that BPO employees often prioritize fitness during early morning hours. This commitment underscores the AWG Group’s dedication to fostering a healthier future for everyone.

 

Looking ahead, Gan-Go shared that the AWG Group is already eyeing a property in Lapu-Lapu for another potential sports facility. She also expressed openness to Magnum Sports Complex hosting larger events, such as the Palarong Pambansa, should the facility meet the necessary qualifications. 

The opening of Magnum Sports Complex marks a significant milestone for Cebu. This cutting-edge facility, already boasting numerous state-of-the-art amenities, continues its development to further enhance its offerings and solidify its vision as a dynamic sports hub. It’s poised to elevate the region’s sports infrastructure and actively promote a healthier, more dynamic lifestyle for residents, becoming an integral force in shaping Cebu’s vibrant future.

It’s game on, Cebu!

Book your court by calling 032 272 0325 / 032 272 8269 / 0915 451 2097. You may also email [email protected]. You may also follow Magnum Sports Complex on Facebook.

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Addie Rochelle's Inspiring Comeback After Spinal Fusion

Addie Rochelle’s journey illustrates resilience following a serious spinal surgery. Diagnosed with scoliosis in June 2021 during a routine sports physical, she underwent spinal fusion surgery. The process not only tested her physical capabilities but also her mental strength and determination. Rochelle focuses on recovery and growth, viewing her journey as a series of positive […]

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Addie Rochelle's Inspiring Comeback After Spinal Fusion

Addie Rochelle’s journey illustrates resilience following a serious spinal surgery. Diagnosed with scoliosis in June 2021 during a routine sports physical, she underwent spinal fusion surgery. The process not only tested her physical capabilities but also her mental strength and determination. Rochelle focuses on recovery and growth, viewing her journey as a series of positive steps rather than setbacks.

By the Numbers

  • Addie Rochelle was diagnosed with scoliosis during a standard sports physical in June 2021.
  • She underwent spinal fusion surgery, emphasizing the significance of her recovery journey.

Yes, But

While Rochelle’s story is primarily one of triumph, the challenges of recovery and rehabilitation from such a major surgery highlight the potential risks that could deter some young athletes.

State of Play

  • Rochelle’s current focus is on her rehabilitation and returning to competitive play.
  • Her experience is inspiring others in the sport dealing with similar challenges.

What’s Next

Looking ahead, Rochelle may serve as a motivational figure in athletic circles, potentially speaking out on mental health and recovery from injury, influencing both peers and younger athletes.

Bottom Line

Addie Rochelle’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength required to overcome adversity, highlighting the importance of mental resilience alongside physical recovery in sports.

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Sports leagues shouldn't rewrite history of transgender athletes who set records

Many have called for achievements of transgender athletes participating in female sports to be erased from league records. While I believe that sports leagues have the right to prohibit biological males from participating in female events, the records already set by such individuals should remain on the books for two reasons. First, I believe it […]

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Sports leagues shouldn't rewrite history of transgender athletes who set records

Many have called for achievements of transgender athletes participating in female sports to be erased from league records.

While I believe that sports leagues have the right to prohibit biological males from participating in female events, the records already set by such individuals should remain on the books for two reasons. First, I believe it makes the leagues look worse for essentially trying to rewrite history instead of just accepting that the process isn’t perfect. Many other cases could be made for a lack of fairness in competitive sporting events, and rising to the top involves both skill and luck.

Second, and more importantly, it sets a dangerous precedent. What if a record-holding athlete made an allegedly bigoted comment and then a faction called for that person’s records to be taken off the books because of that?

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Record keeping should not be politicized. Sports records should be set on the field, not in the courtroom. Such records that go on the books should stay on the books. Removing them is never justified.

Anthony Gerlach, Menomonee Falls

Opinion: Comparing Milwaukee crime with New York under Rudy Giuliani doesn’t hold water

More: We’re supposed to report anyone failing to emphasize beauty of Apostle Islands?

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Sports records shouldn’t be politicized against transgender | Letters

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