Non-Lethal Swimmer Neutralization Study

Neurological Symptoms Among US Diplomats in Cuba

“…Although loud sound can certainly cause aural injury, data as to whether high-intensity sound at audible (20-20 000 Hz) or inaudible low frequencies (ie, infrasound [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20]) is capable of inducing long-lasting central nervous system symptoms are unclear. 7,8 Ultrasound (>20 000 Hz)-specifically high-intensity focused ultrasound-is known to induce heating and coagulative necrosis of brain tissue. This characteristic has recently been exploited to stereotactically and noninvasively produce focal lesions in the treatment of movement disorders.…”

“…9 However, the technical challenges in using ultrasound waves for nonlethal attacks include the rapid absorption of ultrasound by surrounding air and a requirement for close proximity to the source to induce injury. 7 In any case, the analogy to concussion may be unnecessary as many of the symptoms described also occur in other medical, neurological, or psychiatric conditions. In particular, persistent postural-perceptual dizziness (PPPD) is a syndrome characterized primarily by chronic symptoms of dizziness and perceived unsteadiness, often triggered by acute or chronic vestibular disease, neurological or medical illness, or psychological distress.…”