Scientists at UNC-CH are studying the effects of hazardous waste on human health and environment. They are developing new strategies for cleaning up Superfund sites, including techniques to measure oxidative stress and understand genetic traits that make individuals more susceptible.
Researchers at UNC-CH have found a strong correlation between men's preference for sweet tastes and whether their twin brothers liked sweets too. The study suggests that genes may be linked to the urge to drink alcohol.
A new study by UNC Chapel Hill researchers found that pregnant women with low calcium intake have higher levels of lead in their bloodstream due to rapid bone turnover. Calcium consumption can minimize this effect, but the study also suggests that even low-level exposure may pose health risks.
Experts at UNC-CH School of Social Work are developing a social development program called Making Choices to strengthen children's social skills and reduce peer rejection, alienation, and aggression. The program aims to teach children conflict resolution skills and foster enduring friendships in multicultural peer groups.
A new study finds that black men are 33% more likely to develop hip osteoarthritis than white men, while black women are twice as likely to develop the condition. Weight disparities account for comparable differences in women.
Researchers discovered that COMP significantly increases in the blood of people with hip or knee osteoarthritis even before X-rays reveal joint damage. Elevated levels of COMP correspond strongly with reports of joint pain and may indicate an early stage of osteoarthritis.
A study by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found that Duke University football players transmitted a Norwalk-like virus to their Florida State University opponents after eating contaminated food. The transmission was attributed to people touching each other's hands, uniforms, and possibly the football itself.
Chemists at UNC-CH have answered a decade-old scientific riddle about the origin of an energy barrier that prevents reactions except at high temperatures. The study found that dimer sites, pairs of silicon atoms, play a crucial role in the reaction by tilting up and down like a see-saw.
Researchers found scores of state programs offering financial incentives to attract primary-care practitioners to medically under-served areas. These programs have contributed significantly to the US healthcare safety net, with over 1,300 physicians serving in needy areas.
A new program, 'Health Works After the Flood,' aims to address post-flood stress and potential domestic violence among blue-collar working women. The initiative builds on a previous project and will provide training and support to local communities to minimize domestic violence at home and in the workplace.
The Smoke-Free Families National Dissemination Office aims to increase cessation rates by up to 70% through counseling and strong social support. The office will disseminate current best practices and conduct research to integrate effective quitting methods into clinical settings.
A new study aims to improve adolescent girls' fitness levels and reduce their risk of obesity. The Trial of Activity in Adolescent Girls (TAAG) project will test whether structured physical activity programs can increase fitness and prevent decline, with a focus on underrepresented groups.
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found that regular garlic consumption reduces stomach cancer risk by half and colorectal cancer risk by two-thirds. The researchers pooled data from 22 studies worldwide to confirm the protective effect, but note that supplements may not be as effective.
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found that regular gardening, walking, and swimming can lead to a 5-10% reduction in average monthly Medicare expenditures. Making homes safer through simple changes also resulted in significant cost savings.
Scientists have discovered that activation of NF-kappa B prevents expression of a key regulatory protein called MyoD from replenishing muscle tissue. This finding has significant implications for treating cachexia, a syndrome that kills an estimated one third of cancer patients.
A national committee recommends a strategy focused on better tracking of HIV infections, coupled with funding the most cost-effective prevention programs. The approach aims to significantly cut new infections, particularly in high-risk populations.
A new study from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill suggests that current PSA screening strategies should be changed. Testing men at ages 40 and 45, and then every two years after age 50, may prevent more deaths than waiting until age 50.
A new UNC-CH study reveals that North Carolina's Intensive Family Preservation Services program is highly effective in preventing out-of-home placements for high-risk families. The program, which provides intensive support services to families, has a significant cost advantage over traditional social service actions.
A new study found that farming overall is protective against breast cancer in women, but pesticide exposure boosts their risk slightly. Women who farmed more than 23 years had a 40% lower risk of breast cancer.
A new study has identified biochemical remains of human tissue in a coprolite, providing definitive evidence for sporadic cannibalism in the Southwest. The analysis suggests that at least seven people were systematically cut up and consumed by residents of an Anasazi site around 1150.
A team of researchers found that radiologists prefer different images for evaluating various breast tissue abnormalities, requiring new computer programs for optimal results. The technology holds great promise in finding breast cancer earlier, but optimizing images for different tasks is crucial.
A new study has found that osteoporosis doubles the risk of fractures in nursing home residents, particularly those with better mobility. Researchers discovered that 80% of women in the study had osteoporosis and that low bone mineral density increased fracture rates.
Researchers at UNC-CH found that small studies reported higher cancer risks than larger ones, and that the general public is unlikely to get esophageal cancer even with heartburn. The study's findings suggest that widespread testing for Barrett's esophagus may not be necessary.
Researchers used antisense oligonucleotides to block defective genes responsible for producing hemoglobin, restoring correct production of beta-globin and enabling cells to produce more hemoglobin. The correction could last for months and may be a simpler therapy than gene therapy.
Research by Dr. C. A. Tuggle found that many TV news directors and reporters believe high-tech 'toys' are being used to extend coverage beyond a story's real value. The study also shows that live reporting is becoming more common, but often ratings poorly with viewers.
A new study reveals that over 100 countries have laws that can imprison journalists for 'insulting' government officials and institutions. The World Press Freedom Committee sponsored the research, led by Dr. Ruth Walden, which found that such laws undermine democracies and stifle free speech.
A new University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found six high school football players died from brain injuries in 1999. The deaths were attributed to improper tackling techniques and inadequate precautions, leading to a focus on coach education and player safety measures.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill found that nutritional rickets is increasing in dark-skinned breastfed children due to lower vitamin D levels and reduced sunlight exposure. The condition can cause bowed legs, shorter stature, and even life-threatening complications if left untreated.
Dr. Oliver Smithies has received the International Okamoto Award for his groundbreaking work in hypertensive and arteriosclerotic research using molecular genetics. He pioneered gene targeting techniques that have been widely adopted by researchers worldwide, leading to a better understanding of human genetic diseases.
A major new study from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found a significant decline in milk consumption and a sharp increase in sugar-laden soft drinks among US teenagers between 1965 and 1996. This shift is linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases, including strokes, heart disease, and osteoporosis.
Two studies found sigmoidoscopy detects few cancerous growths and none in asymptomatic patients with polyps, supporting the use of colonoscopy for regular screening. The research suggests that colonoscopy should be done every 5-10 years for people over 50 to save lives.
Over 5,000 experts worldwide support the Durban Declaration, stating that HIV is the cause of AIDS and urging governments to focus on prevention efforts. The declaration aims to eliminate misinformation and mobilize the world to combat the devastating consequences of AIDS.
Researchers found that trans-Resveratrol modulates NF-kappa B activity, turning off a natural protective mechanism that prevents cancer cells from being killed. The study suggests that consuming more grapes and grape products may help prevent or treat certain cancers.
The discovery of ancient fossils in central Asia shows that birds' ancestors had the earliest known feathers, which predate dinosaurs. This challenges the long-held theory that birds evolved directly from theropod dinosaurs.
A new national study found that unusual infections and fat emboli contribute significantly to acute chest syndrome in sickle cell disease patients. The syndrome is the leading cause of death among sickle cell patients, and earlier diagnosis and treatment may save many lives.
Researchers at UNC-CH's Odum Institute are conducting studies on the social effects of Hurricane Floyd, including oral history investigations and strategies to help low-literate adults cope with natural disasters. The projects aim to preserve regional history and provide insights for disaster relief efforts and future recovery.
Researchers found taxi drivers are significantly more likely to be murdered on the job than other occupations. Self-employed workers and minorities were also disproportionately affected by workplace homicides.
A study by University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found that US adolescents are physically inactive due to limited access to school physical education programs and community recreation centers. High-crime neighborhoods also contribute to a sedentary lifestyle, increasing the risk of obesity and poor health.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill scientists have discovered a receptor molecule that can facilitate the introduction of corrected genes into cell nuclei, paving the way for potential gene therapy treatments. The study uses a G-protein-coupled receptor to enable weakened viruses to enter cells, carrying therapeutic payloads.
Researchers have developed a battery-powered disinfecting pen that can inactivate waterborne parasites, viruses, and bacteria within minutes. The device generates mixed oxidants from a salt solution, delivering safe drinking water even better than plain chlorine.
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found that shorter hospital stays may actually increase the likelihood of breastfeeding. The research suggests that giving clinicians and mothers more decision-making power over discharge timing can support breastfeeding, even in cases where risk factors suggest otherwise.
Researchers have successfully created genetically engineered mice that cannot produce their own vitamin C, a nutrient essential for growth and healthy tissues. These 'humanized' mice will aid in understanding vitamin C's role in diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
A new University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study suggests that benzene is responsible for between 8% and 48% of all smoking-induced leukemia deaths. The chemical also causes between 12% and 58% of smoking-related deaths from acute myeloid leukemia.
A new study by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill finds that drinking drivers are responsible for a significant number of child passenger deaths in the US. Between 1991 and 1996, approximately 550 U.S. children died each year in crashes involving drinking drivers, with about one in five deaths involving alcohol.
A survey of 81 school districts in 11 states found that few schools are using effective anti-drug programs, with the most common programs being unproven. Effective programs such as Reconnecting Youth and Life Skills Training are available but often lack funding and teacher training.
The UNC-CH survey found that only a third of schools use Life Skills Training, and a quarter use Project ALERT, two programs proven to be effective in preventing adolescent drug experimentation. Many coordinators lack full-time staff to devote to drug prevention, with only 25% having one or more employees doing so.
A new study by University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill researchers found that high-quality childcare improves intellectual and language skills in infants and toddlers, even in those from low-income families. The study followed 89 black children in 27 U.S. care centers between ages 6 months and four years.
Researchers at UNC-CH develop new technique to measure electronic properties of single-walled carbon nanotubes using C-13 nuclear magnetic resonance. The study finds that the mass ratios of metallic and semiconducting tubes can be controlled, enabling the production of materials with tunable structures.
A new study by University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill researchers shows a simple breath test can distinguish between patients who metabolize chemotherapy drugs normally and those who require lower doses for safety. The technique, which measures exhaled carbon dioxide, has promising advantages in reducing toxicity in patients.
A Canadian study found that bicycle helmet laws enacted in 1996 led to a significant increase in helmet use among cyclists, with overall wearing rates rising from 46% to 70%. Helmet use improved across all age groups and regions, but remained lower in non-metropolitan areas.