Articles tagged with Judaism
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.
Researchers aim to develop rescue treatments within hours of exposure to toxic gases like mustard gas and chlorine gas. The goal is to prevent or limit progressive damage to airways and skin, as well as clear blockage of airways.
Researchers found that teaching Israelis and Palestinians that groups of people are generally capable of change can have a positive effect on their willingness to compromise. This approach led to more favorable attitudes towards Palestinians and increased support for major compromises.
Researchers found that individuals who trust in a benevolent God tend to worry less, while those with negative beliefs report higher levels of worry. The study suggests integrating patients' spiritual beliefs into treatment regimens can improve mental health outcomes.
A team of researchers at National Jewish Health discovered a type of B cell that may contribute to autoimmune disease, particularly in women. These cells produce autoantibodies and are more prevalent in elderly female mice, young and old mice prone to autoimmune disease, and humans with autoimmune diseases.
A survey of 733 medical students found that nearly half believe doctors should object to certain procedures, such as abortions and intimate examinations. Muslim students were more likely to express this view, while Jewish students were less likely.
A new study found that Southern European groups can attribute up to 3% of their genetic signature to African ancestry, with mixing dating back 1,600 years. Middle Eastern groups have inherited 4-15% African ancestry, and Jewish populations 3-5%.
Researchers at National Jewish Health discovered a genetic variation associated with pulmonary fibrosis, which increases production of mucus and may play a significant role in the disease. The study found that nearly two-thirds of patients carry the variation, which is linked to the MUC5B gene.
A genetic variant associated with the MUC5B gene is a major risk factor for pulmonary fibrosis, increasing risk by 6-9 times with one copy and 20-22 times with two copies. The discovery may alter research directions and identify patients at risk.
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.
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.
Researchers at National Jewish Health found that 84-93% of foods avoided due to suspected allergies were restored after oral food challenges. The study highlights the need to balance clinical allergy testing with complete food elimination diets.
A new study by Ben-Gurion University researcher finds that Israeli's have a higher life expectancy on average than Americans and residents of other OECD countries. Life expectancy for Israelis has increased significantly since 1980, with Jews and Arabs living noticeably longer than Americans.
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.
A study by LDI researchers found that vitamin C supplementation improved mood states in hospitalized patients, but had no effect on vitamin D levels. The treatment is simple, safe, and cheap, with major clinical practice implications.
Decades of research reveals that Holocaust survivors exhibit cognitive functioning and physical health similar to non-survivors, yet experience significant psychological pain, post-traumatic stress, and psychopathological symptoms. Living in Israel may serve as a protective factor for improved psychological well-being.
Researchers found Ashkenazi Jews have higher genetic diversity than previously thought, with evidence of interbreeding with European and Middle Eastern populations. Only a minority of disease-related genes show signs of positive selection, suggesting most traits arose through random genetic drift.
Researchers will investigate why atopic dermatitis patients are susceptible to staph and other bacterial and viral infections, and evaluate the effectiveness of vitamin D in reducing or preventing staph colonization. The study aims to contain drug-resistant MRSA infections and widespread viral skin infections.
Researchers found that Israeli Arabs' biases towards their own group are stronger in Arabic than in Hebrew, suggesting language influences thought patterns. The study used the Implicit Association Test to measure biases in bilingual Arab Israelis.
Researchers found a significant link between African ancestry and pulmonary measurement in both men and women across all ages. Accounting for genetic ancestry improves prediction of normal lung function over a simple race-based classification, potentially leading to reclassification of severity in many lung diseases.
A new study found that areas in Russia with significant Jewish populations suffered from lower economic growth, wages, and per-capita GDP since World War II. These regions also exhibited stronger support for Communist candidates and a lasting resistance to political reform.
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.
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.
A recent study has found that Jewish people from different regions share a common ancestry and distinct genetic traits. The research provides detailed genetic maps of major Jewish subpopulations, which can help understand genetic links to diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
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.
Pioneering AIDS researchers Dr. Mark Wainberg and Dr. Norbert Gilmore argue that the current ban on gay men donating blood is no longer justified. They suggest allowing only those in stable, long-term monogamous relationships to donate, while maintaining the ban on those with multiple partners.
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.
Dr. Gregory Downey received the Recognition Award for Scientific Accomplishments for his outstanding contributions to respiratory disease research. He has published over 190 papers and is a leading expert in innate immunity, lung injury, and repair.
A study at National Jewish Health found that art therapy significantly improves problem-solving, communication, quality-of-life, anxiety, and self-concept scores in children with chronic asthma. The benefits persisted for six months after treatment stopped, suggesting art therapy as a valuable adjunct to traditional treatments.
Researchers discovered a strong link between childhood sexual or emotional abuse and the severity of binge eating disorder. The study found that learned self-criticism and body dissatisfaction are key factors in this association.
A study by American Chemical Society found that kosher products dominate supermarket shelves due to strict standards, appealing to non-Jewish consumers. Rabbis must analyze chemical composition of food ingredients to certify kosher products, highlighting the complexity of kosher certification.
Research by National Jewish Health faculty presents promising findings on vitamin D's effectiveness in boosting corticosteroid efficacy for asthma treatment. Additionally, early results show oral immunotherapy with egg-white solid to be effective in desensitizing children with egg allergy.
A long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) is the most effective step-up treatment for children with poorly controlled asthma, according to a new study. The study found that children responded differently to different treatments, with African-Americans equally likely to respond best to LABA or corticosteroid step-up.
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.
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.
A new analysis of historical documents and geological maps reveals Jerusalem's karst geology played a pivotal role in the city's selection as David's capital, allowing it to successfully fend off Assyrian sieges. The discovery highlights the significance of water security in the region, with implications for modern-day life and politics.
Scholars at the University of Chicago and the West Semitic Research Project are analyzing hundreds of ancient Aramaic texts using advanced imaging techniques, revealing new knowledge about Imperial Aramaic dialects. The Persepolis Fortification Archive provides valuable insights into the development of this ancient language.
A Tel Aviv University researcher recommends new guidelines for accessing biobanked children's DNA, emphasizing the need for safeguards against privacy risks and potential future discrimination. The approach aims to balance societal benefits with individual privacy rights.
Recent research on the Cohen Y chromosome reveals that the Jewish priesthood was established by several unrelated male lines. The study, conducted by Michael F. Hammer and colleagues, found that a common male ancestor lived in the Near East around 3,200 years ago, giving rise to distinct lineages among Cohanim Jews.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev are developing new computer algorithms to aid historical document research globally. The project combines humanities and computer science expertise to advance scholarship in Jewish liturgical texts and Arabic historical texts.
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.
The Oriental Institute at the University of Chicago is using modern technology to digitally record thousands of ancient Persian Empire tablets. The project, supported by a substantial grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, aims to record about 10,000 tablets and fragments by 2010.
Research suggests that positive contact between groups can lead to improved attitudes towards the advantaged group, but also reduces awareness of inequality and decreases support for social change. Encounters emphasizing both common connections and problem inequalities can promote intergroup understanding and recognition of change.
Researchers discovered a gene, EC-SOD, that reduces mortality risk for patients with acute lung injury. The study identified specific SNPs in the gene that decrease inflammation and severity of lung injury.
Research reveals high Sephardic Jewish ancestry in Iberian populations, suggesting significant religious conversion events. Low diversity in North African lineage indicates recent arrival after 711 AD conquest.
Archaeologists discovered an 800-pound basalt stele at Zincirli, a major Iron Age site in southeastern Turkey. The stele features an incised image of the man Kuttamuwa and provides written evidence that people believed the soul was separate from the body.
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.
Israelis have lost faith in teaching Arabs to accept their state and envisioning coexistence, while Arabs and Muslims no longer see Israel as capable of living in peace with them. This shift has led to cycles of violence, demoralization, and migration, casting doubt on Israel's future
Measuring exhaled nitric oxide (NO) has no clinically significant impact on asthma control when used in conjunction with conventional treatment. Patients in the NO monitoring group received higher doses of inhaled corticosteroids, but this did not lead to better symptom control.
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.
A large multicenter study suggests new genetic markers for Crohn's disease, specifically affecting the Ashkenazi Jewish population. The study found evidence of genes causing familial Crohn's Disease on chromosomes 1 and 3, as well as a previously unidentified region on chromosome 13.
Scientists at Albert Einstein College of Medicine identify genetic variations influencing human longevity. The study found that female children of centenarians had higher IGF-I plasma levels, suggesting a possible compensation mechanism for impaired growth.
Researchers found significant differences in the quality of care delivered to Jewish and Arab patients with diabetes in Jerusalem. Arab patients received less diet counseling, physical activity support, and medication prescriptions compared to their Jewish counterparts.
Research published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that Ashkenazi Jewish women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations have a significantly longer survival rate compared to those without these mutations. After up to nine years of follow-up, carriers were 28% less likely to die from ovarian cancer.
Researchers analyzed genes of 278 people with Parkinson's disease and found a higher prevalence of mutations in the GBA gene among those diagnosed before age 50. The study suggests that Jewish ancestry may be an important risk factor for younger-onset Parkinson's disease due to the increased presence of GBA gene mutations in this group.
A nationwide survey of American physicians found that psychiatry is the least religious medical specialty, with Jewish psychiatrists making up over half of the field. The study also revealed that religious physicians are less likely to refer patients to psychiatrists and more likely to send them to clergy or counselors. This gap in rel...
National Jewish researchers present groundbreaking findings on asthma perception, air pollution effects, obesity resistance to medication, and salmeterol risk. They also discover household bleach can neutralize allergens, improving patient responses.
A study published in Neurology found that a gene variation linked to longevity also protects brain function in individuals over 90. Researchers analyzed 158 centenarians and found they had twice the likelihood of good brain function compared to those without the variant.
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.
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.