ALS

Als (äls), Ger. Alsen, island, 121 sq mi (313 sq km), Sønderjylland co., S Denmark, in the Lille Bælt, separated from the mainland by the narrow Alensund. Sønderborg (partly situated on the mainland) is the main city; other towns include Augustenborg and Nordborg. Farming (particularly of apples and grain), fishing, dairying, and manufacturing (especially of motor vehicle parts) are the main occupations. Danfoss, a company that produces heating and refrigerating plants is there. Its beautiful beaches make the island a popular tourist attraction. It was held by Germany from 1864 to 1920.

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amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

 or Lou Gehrig disease

Degenerative nervous-system disorder causing muscle wasting and paralysis. The disease usually occurs after age 40, more often in men. Most victims die within two to five years from respiratory muscle atrophy. ALS affects motor neurons; the muscles they control become weak and atrophied, with debility usually beginning in the hands and creeping slowly up to the shoulders. The lower limbs become weak and spastic. Variants include progressive muscular atrophy and progressive bulbar palsy. In 1993 the defective gene that accounts for 5–10% of cases was discovered; it produces an ineffective version of an enzyme that neutralizes free radicals, which destroy motor neurons.