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American Friends of Tel Aviv University


Breathe easier: Get your D

Researchers found that Vitamin D-deficient asthmatics are at a higher risk of an asthma attack and that boosting levels may help manage acute episodes. The study analyzed medical records of nearly four million people and found significant immunomodulatory effects of Vitamin D on asthma.

Slowing the biological clock

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have discovered a connection between innate immune system genes and ovarian longevity, which could lead to new treatments for fertility issues. Neutralizing the effects of a key protein may slow down egg destruction and improve IVF success rates.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 27, 2014

No rest for the bleary

A Tel Aviv University study reveals that parents of newborns experience detrimental effects from frequent night wakings, leading to impaired cognitive function, negative emotions, and decreased alertness. The researchers established a causal link between interrupted sleep patterns and compromised cognitive abilities.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalSleep Medicine·DateJul 8, 2014

For a holistic approach to POW trauma

A new study examines the complex interplay between Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and depressive symptoms in ex-POWs, finding that treatment must address both conditions simultaneously. Prof. Solomon's research suggests that a 'tunnel vision' approach to treating POWs is ineffective and may even exacerbate symptoms.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Research·DateJul 7, 2014

Are fish near extinction?

A new study by Tel Aviv University researchers has identified the biological flaw that causes most fish larvae to die within days of hatching. The 'hydrodynamic starvation' mechanism is triggered by the physical interaction between the larva and its environment, leading to poor feeding ability and high mortality rates.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2014

Can coral save our oceans?

Soft coral tissue has been found to protect reef skeletons from declining pH levels, potentially providing a new approach to preserving coral reefs. The study, published in PLOS One, highlights the resilience of soft corals and their potential role in maintaining the health of coral reefs.

By any stretch

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a new stereoscopic measurement system using computer vision to accurately measure infant length. The technique allows infants to be measured while lying naturally on their backs, eliminating the need for physical restriction and reducing discomfort.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateJun 23, 2014

Regenerating our kidneys

Researchers at Tel Aviv University and Stanford University discovered the multi-layered nature of kidney growth using a rainbow mouse model. The WNT signal was found to be responsible for renal cellular growth, allowing for potential therapeutic applications in human kidney regeneration.

Sincere family gift creates unique bridge between Tel Aviv University and University of Wisconsin

The Debra and Richard Sincere Tel Aviv University Project in Middle Eastern Studies will award substantial scholarships to outstanding doctoral students, fostering joint academic activities with the University of Wisconsin. The gift also supports research seminars, conferences, and faculty/student exchanges between the two institutions.

On the defensive

Researchers found that protein aggregates in Huntington's disease are not toxic, but rather a defense mechanism for stressed brain cells. This discovery may lead to new therapeutic approaches by targeting the stress response instead of protein clusters.

Drawing conclusions

Dr. Carmit Katz's study found that drawing during questioning significantly improves the accuracy and detail of child abuse testimonies. Children empowered to draw reported regaining control and feeling hopeful, with richer descriptions provided compared to those not offered this opportunity.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalChild Abuse & Neglect·DateApr 3, 2014

Corporate layoff strategies are increasing workplace gender and racial inequality

Research from Tel Aviv University reveals that current downsizing policies are reducing managerial diversity and increasing racial and gender inequalities. The study found that companies using tenure or position as core criteria for downsizing minimized the share of white women in management positions by 25 percent.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateMar 27, 2014

From mouse ears to man's?

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have discovered that DNA therapy can preserve inner ear nerve cells in humans with certain types of progressive hearing loss. The study uses a protein growth factor to block degeneration and has important implications for enhancing sound perception with cochlear implants.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalHearing Research·DateMar 24, 2014