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Trigger for autoimmune disease identified

Researchers at National Jewish Health have identified Age-associated B Cells (ABCs) as a key driver of autoimmune diseases such as lupus and Crohn's disease. The study found that ABCs cause the immune system to attack organs and tissues, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 10, 2017

Health in Israel: Progress and challenges in a region of conflict

Despite strong progress, Israel still faces significant health disparities, with lower life expectancy and higher rates of heart disease, diabetes, and smoking among its Arab population. The country's aging population poses a growing challenge, and addressing ethnic inequalities is crucial to ensuring universal healthcare coverage.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 8, 2017

Men have a lot to learn about their own fertility

A recent survey found that men generally lack awareness of risk factors contributing to male infertility, with only about 50% identifying potential dangers. This lack of knowledge can lead to devastating psychological impact and stress on relationships, emphasizing the need for public education to promote reproductive health among men.

SourceMcGill University·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateNov 22, 2016

Obesity linked to increased risk of multiple sclerosis

A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that obesity in early adulthood is associated with a significantly increased risk of developing multiple sclerosis. The research, led by Dr. Brent Richards, used Mendelian randomization to investigate the link between genetically determined obesity and MS risk. The study found that an averag...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 28, 2016

DNA sat nav uncovers ancient Ashkenaz

Researchers used a DNA tool to pinpoint the origin of Yiddish, suggesting it was invented by Iranian and Ashkenazic Jews as they traded on the Silk Road. The language is thought to have acquired new words from other cultures while retaining its Slavic grammar.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateApr 19, 2016

Study: Homeschooled kids sleep more than others

A study published in Behavioral Sleep Medicine found that homeschooled children get an average of 90 minutes more sleep per night than their public and private school peers. Experts argue that this is due to the altered biological clocks of teenagers, who need nine hours of sleep a night but often don't get it.

SourceMediaSource·JournalBehavioral Sleep Medicine·DateMar 2, 2016

Jewish cuisine punching above its paunch

A study by Professor Olivier Bauer found that Montreal's culinary heritage is influenced by Jewish cultural heritage, with bagels and smoked meat becoming iconic symbols of the city. The researcher notes that these foods have become popular among workers and tourists alike, despite their Jewish origins.

Smoking hits all-time low... but not for these 3 groups

A recent study by the CDC found that US adults now smoke at a rate of 17.8%, the lowest since 1965. However, smoking rates remain high among three groups: American Indians, LGBT individuals, and those with mental health issues. The largest non-profit quitline in the US is hiring Native coaches to better serve these communities.

SourceMediaSource·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateNov 19, 2015

Arabs or Jews, children who need pain relief in the ER get it

A study published in Annals of Emergency Medicine found that children with broken bones or joint dislocations in northern Israel received equal pain relief, regardless of their ethnicity. The study, which lasted four years, including an 11-week period of armed conflict, showed that opioid therapy was administered to nearly all children...

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateSep 3, 2015

Study: Include men in osteoporosis screening guidelines

A recent study found that one in four men over 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis, surpassing prostate cancer incidence rates. The research suggests adding men to osteoporosis screening guidelines to address the high likelihood of vertebral fractures and low bone density.

SourceMediaSource·JournalAnnals of the American Thoracic Society·DateMay 20, 2015

Diabetes drug spurs host defense

Researchers found that pioglitazone enhances ROS production in white blood cells, killing difficult-to-treat pathogens. This finding demonstrates a relevant contribution to host defense in mouse and cellular models of chronic granulomatous disease.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateFeb 11, 2015

After watching disturbing video, CPAP usage soars

A pilot study using emotional videos has led to a significant increase in CPAP machine usage among patients with sleep apnea, with some users reporting up to 2 hours of additional therapy per night. The approach, which uses personalized videos to create a sense of urgency, resulted in sustained improvement after three months.

Researcher finds companies' religious affiliation can buffer negative reactions

A new study by Kelly Cowart reveals that companies' religious affiliations can buffer against negative reactions to store policies, especially in the event of a service failure. The research found that customers are more likely to forgive firms with religious affiliations, regardless of their own attitudes towards the religion.

SourceGrand Valley State University·JournalJournal of Services Marketing·DateAug 7, 2014

Wet wraps cut need for drugs in kids with eczema

A new study shows wet wrap therapy can reduce eczema symptoms by 71% and eliminate the need for medications in children. The technique involves soaking, applying lotions, and dressing in wet clothing to seal in moisture, resulting in significant improvements in skin health.

SourceMediaSource·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJul 8, 2014

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.

Is Israel's influence on US policy waning?

A recent study by Theodore Sasson suggests that Israel's influence on US policy is diminishing due to the fragmentation of the Jewish community. The once-unified voice among American Jews is now fractured, with individual preferences driving political advocacy and philanthropic support.

Political options tested in virtual wind tunnel

A computer model was developed to assess how different levels of segregation would affect violence in Jerusalem. The study found that social distance is a key mechanism explaining violence, with higher levels increasing the likelihood of violent encounters.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateJul 11, 2013

New blood test finds allergies before implant surgery

Researchers have developed a blood test that can detect allergies to nickel, cobalt, and bone cement, allowing patients to avoid miserable reactions and expensive revisions. The new test is expected to be widely used in the next couple of years, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.

SourceMediaSource·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateMay 15, 2013

Antiviral lipid earns patent

Researchers at National Jewish Health have discovered a naturally occurring lipid, POPG, that reduces inflammation and inhibits infection by the influenza virus and RSV. The lipid offers a promising approach for the prevention and treatment of these respiratory infections.

Tall and thin not so great for lung disease

Women with NTM infections show a weaker immune response linked to their body fat levels. The study also found that tall and thin individuals share characteristics with Marfan syndrome, suggesting a genetic link to increased susceptibility.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 23, 2013

Severe hunger increases breast cancer risk in war survivors

A study of Jewish women who lived under Nazi control during World War Two found that those with severe hunger were five times more likely to develop breast cancer. Women aged seven or younger at the time had a three times higher risk of developing breast cancer than their older counterparts.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Clinical Practice·DateSep 26, 2012