【1-27】四六级题型每日一题.docVIP

【1-27】四六级题型每日一题 【四级_阅读理解】 For two decades, Howard Zirkle fought a losing battle against Parkinsons disease (帕金森氏病) The Minster (Ohio) diesel mechanic was forced to retire at age 55 because uncontrollable trembling of his arms and hands prevented him from steadying a screwdriver or wrench. At home, Zirkle needed his wifes help to button his shirt, pour his coffee, and brush his teeth. It was very embarrassing, says Zirkle, now 72. I would walk around with my hands in my pockets so people wouldnt see the shaking. These days, though, Zirkle says hes getting relief. A tiny electrical device implanted in his brain in early January sends a pattern of rapid-fire signals that seem to override signals from the hyneractive never cells that cause Zirkles tremors. Called Activa, the device is being tested on Zirkie and other Parkinsons patients by Minneapolis-based Medtronic Inc. , a leading supplier of heart pacemakers. We are taking our electrical stimulation therapy and using it for diseases that havent been treated in the past, says Medtronic Chief Executive William W. George. Now, Activa may come into widespread use. A Food Drug Administration panel was expected to recommend approval of the device on March 14. To bolster its case, Medtronic submitted raves from Zirkle and other patients. “Im eating with a fork like I did 20 years ago,” crows Zirkle. And I can fill a cup of coffee without spilling a drop.” Medtronic, which successfully launched Activa in Europe in 1995, has big plans for the product in the U. S. An estimated 2 million Americans suffer from Parkinsons and related illness such as Essential Tremor. According to the National Institutes of Health, the diseases cost America $ 6 billion a year in medicine and treatment. Medtronic expects U. S. sales to hit about 10,000 annually within five years. At $10,000 per Activa, that would amount to $ 100 million in annual sales for $2. 4 billion Medtronic. It proves that Medtronics outlook is bright beyond p