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Modern genetics answers age-old question on Garrod's fourth inborn error of metabolism

Researchers have solved the long-standing mystery of Garrod's fourth inborn error of metabolism by identifying two different DCXR mutations linked to pentosuria in Ashkenazi Jews. This discovery sheds light on historical and geographical patterns of human genetic mutations, providing a new understanding of the condition.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 31, 2011

Israeli media increase division between people

A study by Matt Evans finds that Israeli media frame information to separate secular and religious Jewish communities, using techniques such as selective reporting and emotive language. This division is not limited to Israel, with similar framing tactics observed in the US media.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Middle East Journal·DateApr 15, 2011

First new C. difficile drug in a generation superior to existing treatments: Researchers

Researchers at the Jewish General Hospital and University of Calgary conducted a large-scale phase 3 trial showing Fidaxomicin significantly reduces CDI recurrence rates. The new antibiotic demonstrates improved cure rates compared to existing licensed treatment vancomycin, offering hope for patients struggling with recurrences.

SourceJewish General Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2011

Food allergies raise risk of asthma attacks

A study by National Jewish Health reveals that food allergies are more prevalent among people with asthma, especially in children, males and non-Hispanic blacks. The researchers found that peanut allergy was the most common food allergy, affecting 1.3% of the surveyed population.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateOct 4, 2010

Insulin peptide may point to a solution for type 1 diabetes

Researchers at National Jewish Health and the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus have identified a precise protein fragment that can trigger diabetes in mice. The finding contradicts conventional wisdom and suggests that poorly presented peptides may cause autoimmune diseases, including type 1 diabetes.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2010

New study shows that the major events of the Jewish diaspora can be seen in the genomes of the Jewish people

Researchers at NYU Langone Medical Center found that Jewish communities retained their genetic influences despite migration, exhibiting common genetic threads. The study identified distinct population clusters with shared Middle Eastern ancestry and variable degrees of European and North African intermingling.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJun 3, 2010

Common genetic threads link thousands of years of Jewish ancestry

Researchers have identified distinct Jewish population clusters with shared Middle Eastern ancestry and variable degrees of European and North African genetic intermingling. The study suggests that Jewishness can be identified through genetic analysis and highlights the importance of understanding the complex history of Jewish migrations.

SourceCell Press·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJun 3, 2010

Older patients offer insight into the future of cystic fibrosis

Research on older cystic fibrosis patients reveals significant differences in disease outcomes between males and females, with females living longer and having delayed but equally severe disease. The study's findings provide valuable insights into the future treatment of cystic fibrosis as this population continues to grow.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMay 20, 2010

CSHL scientists use next-gen sequencing to rapidly discover genetic cause of devastating disorder

Scientists from CSHL and Hebrew University Medical Center use next-gen sequencing to rapidly identify the mutated TMEM216 gene as the cause of Joubert Syndrome. The study reveals a high carrier rate of 1:92 among Ashkenazi Jews, making it possible to prevent the disease through premarital genetic screening.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 13, 2010

Holocaust survivors at higher risk for all cancers

A new study found that Jewish survivors of World War II have a higher risk of developing cancer, with increased risks observed for breast and colorectal cancer. The study, which analyzed data from over 300,000 Israeli Jews, suggests that early exposure to extreme stressors during childhood may increase cancer susceptibility later in life.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateOct 26, 2009

Wordless Holocaust memories speak truths for today

A study by Marianne Hirsch and Leo Spitzer explores the evolution of Holocaust Studies and Memory Studies, arguing that even a witness' silence can tell a powerful story. The authors examine how oral and video testimonies have redefined listening and the role of witnesses in shaping collective memory.

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalMemory Studies·DateMay 11, 2009

A look at the Jewish-American vote

According to University of Miami professor Ira M. Sheskin, the strength of the Jewish-American vote is not measured by its numbers but by its geographic concentrations. The Jewish population has shifted from Northeast and Midwest to South and West, maintaining a significant influence on US politics.

Survey finds spirituality is important to eye patients

A survey of 124 eye patients found that 76.6% identified as Christian, with 69.4% reporting prayer is very important to their sense of well-being. The study suggests acknowledging patients' spiritual beliefs can enhance the healing process and establish trust between patients and physicians.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Ophthalmology·DateSep 8, 2008

Research linking Ashkenazi Jews and breast cancer genes beset by problems

A recent study challenges the practice of using Ashkenazi Jewish ethnicity as a proxy for genetic differences in breast cancer research, citing methodological problems and unintended consequences. The study highlights disparities in access to care and potential stigmatization, introducing gaps in testing and treatment for other groups.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateNov 1, 2006

New study warns against linking ethnic identity to breast cancer genes

A recent study challenges the long-held link between Ashkenazi Jewish ethnicity and increased risk for hereditary breast cancer. The research highlights methodological flaws and unintended consequences, including disparities in access to care and stigmatization. For non-Ashkenazi Jewish women, similar prevalence studies are lacking.

SourceBurness·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateOct 26, 2006