Researchers at UNC-CH have developed a new gene mutation detection method that is simple and inexpensive. This technique allows scientists to screen for minute changes in the genetic makeup of humans, animals, plants or viruses.
A large-scale study found that participating in church-related activities increased fruit and vegetable consumption among black church members. The study involved 50 black churches and over 2,500 participants, with the most significant increases seen among frequent churchgoers.
The new center will conduct studies and educational activities to understand the underlying mechanisms of inflammatory diseases and their relationship to oral inflammation and systemic conditions. The research aims to improve diagnosis and treatment of patients by identifying similarities between inflammatory conditions.
Scientists have developed a genetically engineered animal model of schizophrenia, displaying behaviors consistent with the disease. The new model targets NMDA receptors, which may lead to improved treatment options and better understanding of the illness.
Researchers at UNC-CH have developed a gene therapy method that targets specific types of cells, avoiding the less effective 'shotgun' approach. The technique successfully corrects genetic defects in primitive stem cells, which can be used to treat inherited blood disorders like hemophilia and non-inherited illnesses such as cancer.
A new study of over 300,000 people found that obesity significantly increases the risk of premature death by 5.9 and 6.4 years for men and women aged 40-50, respectively. Optimal weight remains the same across different age groups, with excess weight artificially adding years to real age.
Researchers will examine strategies for persuading people to adopt healthier lifestyles, including better diets, exercise, and regular screening. The project aims to reduce the risk of colon cancer and save lives.
A new University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study finds that child abuse homicides are more common than vital records reveal, with over 9,400 US children under 11 dying from abuse between 1985 and 1996. The true number is estimated to be three times higher than reported cases.
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study highlights the dangers of heatstroke in football and recommends shorter practices, non-contact drills, and regular cooling breaks. Coaches are urged to prioritize player safety and prevent tragedies.
The National Science Board has approved a new Science and Technology Center to develop environmentally friendly processes using alternative solvents. The center, led by Dr. Joseph DeSimone and Dr. Ruben Carbonell, aims to reduce organic waste generated in manufacturing and chemical production.
A UNC-CH study explains that variations in Earth's orbit over tens of thousands of years account for the timing of ice ages, providing a more complex understanding of long-term climate change. This new research confirms a theory from the 1920s and sheds light on predicting future global climate change.
Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill have discovered that calcium channels help regulate cell movement by opening to admit more calcium ions when cells are stretched. This boost in motility enables cells to move forward again, which could lead to breakthroughs in wound healing and cancer treatment.
Researchers have discovered that movement of salt and liquid in and out of lung surface cells plays a central role in regulating the lungs' internal liquid coating. This finding confirms a theory of how lungs protect themselves and may suggest better ways of treating cystic fibrosis.
Dr. Carol Ford will conduct research to understand motivations for testing and seeking treatment for STDs, aiming to increase effectiveness of screening programs and reduce preventable illnesses. She'll collaborate with the Add Health project and train healthcare professionals to provide high-quality care to adolescents.
Chinese and U.S. researchers have discovered a previously unknown species of primitive bird with the world's oldest surviving horny beak, dating back 130 million years. The discovery adds weight to the argument that birds descended from earlier reptile ancestors rather than dinosaurs.
Researchers found that fertilized eggs attach themselves to the womb six to 12 days after ovulation, with implantation occurring on day eight being the most successful. The later the attachment takes place, the more likely a pregnancy will end on its own. Day eight appears to be the optimal time for successful implantation.
Researchers at UNC-CH have synthesized ginkgolide B, a compound isolated from the ginkgo tree, which has been used as herbal medicine for thousands of years. The successful synthesis may lead to new treatments for dementia, multiple sclerosis, and other illnesses.
A major national study found that quality in child care makes a difference in children's intellectual and social readiness for school. The effects of higher-quality care were strongest among children at greater risk of doing poorly in school.
Researchers developed the Ocutech autofocus telescope, which enables people with macular degeneration to see clearly for the first time. The device has been praised for its comfort and convenience, allowing users to see blackboards, read signs, and watch birds without manual focus.
A well-controlled scientific study found no positive physical effect beyond moisturizing for 'thigh-reducing' creams. The study showed that applying the creams had no significant difference in upper-leg circumference compared to a lotion not touted as fat-reducing.
The study found that only 7% of D.C. residents and 14% of Delaware residents consider themselves part of the South. In contrast, 84% of Texans and 82% of Virginians identify as Southerners. The results suggest a more nuanced understanding of regional identity.
The US economy is expected to experience strong growth in the coming years, driven by rising consumer confidence and labor productivity. According to Dr. James Smith, a leading economist, real GDP growth will be around 4.0 percent this year, with some countries such as Argentina and Mexico growing faster than predicted.
A study of 12,330 men and women aged 45-64 found that those with high levels of white blood cells, albumin, or fibrinogen were at higher risk of developing diabetes. The research suggests that inflammation may play a central role in the development of Type 2 diabetes.
Researchers at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Rockefeller University have discovered that mammalian chromosomes end in loops, also known as telomeres. This finding has significant implications for our understanding of cell aging and cancer, providing a new way to think about molecular mechanisms.
Researchers at UNC-CH discovered DNA helicase II can act individually in DNA repair, similar to fixing a car. This finding brings scientists closer to correcting defective biological processes and treating diseases like Werner's and Bloom's syndromes.
A study of 200 white and black girls aged 13-14 found that more body fat was associated with lower dating success, while below-average fat was linked to higher rates of dating. The research suggests that adolescent girls' weight concerns influence their attitudes towards physical attractiveness.
A major new study concludes that home environment has about twice the educational impact of day care on children's school readiness. The study found that better-quality care before the school years tends to prepare children better to succeed in school later on.
A new study found that women with birth defects are less likely to survive and have fewer children than those without them. However, their children face a higher risk of developing similar birth defects.
A new study by University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill researchers found no additional mercury exposure to children from dental fillings, despite low environmental exposure. Tiny amounts of mercury were detected in primary teeth, but statistical analysis showed no correlation with the number of fillings.
Researchers found a significant link between HIV infections and abnormal vaginal bacteria in pregnant women. Four times as many subjects with bacterial vaginosis were HIV-infected compared to those with a normal balance.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill have discovered a novel cancer gene therapy strategy that blocks NF-kappa B, a protein that enables many cultured tumor cells to escape death. The technique showed promising results in mice with human tumors, shrinking and eliminating tumors in some cases.
A new University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found that intensive hog operations are disproportionately located in poor and non-white communities across North Carolina. The research, funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences' Environmental Justice Program, analyzed data from 1998 and 1990 to show that...
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found that more than two-thirds of animated feature films produced for children over the past 60 years display tobacco or alcohol use. The study examined nearly all G-rated animated films released between 1937 and 1997, including popular titles such as Disney and Warner Brothers films.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill will launch a management academy to boost training for public health professionals in four states. The academy aims to improve how health departments nationwide serve citizens, addressing concerns discussed for decades.
Researchers found that dietary choline deficiency changes brain structure in developing rats, reducing cell division and increasing premature cell death. The study suggests a similar effect on human babies, highlighting the importance of prenatal nutrition for long-term cognitive health.
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study reveals that dopamine plays an early central role in pleasure but another chemical like serotonin is actually responsible for the sensation. Researchers believe this discovery could lead to better explanations for substance abuse and addiction, as well as new treatments.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill discovered molecular changes in nerve cells that may play a role in causalgia, a painful medical syndrome. The study found that nerve fibers affected by injury become supersensitive to norepinephrine, leading to persistent burning pain.
A study found 10-year syphilis rates in counties bordering I-95 were 2.38 times higher than those not bordering the highway. Drug trafficking significantly contributed to the contagion.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is launching a unique project to reduce tooth decay among the state's youngest children by applying fluoride varnish on their teeth starting from 9 months. Despite improvements in dental health over the past three decades, 20-25% of young children still suffer from severe tooth decay.
A new scientific study investigated whether olestra-based potato and corn chips cause unpleasant symptoms, finding no significant difference between the two groups. Participants reported an average of one more day with more frequent bowel movements in the olestra group, but this effect was not substantial.
The US blood supply is considered extremely safe, with the risk of contracting viruses such as HIV being estimated at one in 676,000. However, a growing aging population will lead to increased demands on the blood supply, resulting in a potential shortage, and more units may need to be imported from abroad.
Researchers have discovered that combining standard treatment with a second natural hormone, triiodothyronine, improves cognitive symptoms in hypothyroidism patients. The study found that brain function, memory, and energy levels increased significantly with the combined therapy.
A study found that US natural disaster planning is poorly implemented, with only 20% of available funds spent on mitigation projects. Researchers recommend improving hazard reduction planning through infrastructure development, land use planning, and environmental protection.
Researchers at UNC-CH discovered a pentapeptide that breaks apart collagen fibrils, allowing for improved restricted movement due to joint injuries. The discovery has the potential to lead to new treatments, including injecting peptides into patients to loosen up stiff joints.
A new study reveals that carbon nanotubes are more energetic to roll across surfaces compared to sliding, defying conventional wisdom on friction reduction. Researchers discovered this phenomenon using the nanoManipulator device and attributed it to electron surface interactions.
A new study found that calcium supplements moderately reduced the risk of recurring polyp growth in the colon and appeared to lower the risk of colon cancer. The study involved 832 patients who received 1200 milligrams of calcium carbonate daily for four years, with a 24% decrease in polyp numbers and a 19% decrease in recurrence risk.
Researchers found that otitis media with effusion decreases steadily in children between ages 2 and 5, with only a small percentage continuing to experience persistent fluid buildup after age 2.
A new study reveals that alpha V beta 5-integrins on cell surfaces facilitate the entry of genetically engineered AAV viruses into cells, allowing for efficient gene delivery. This understanding can lead to improved gene therapy methods and enhanced chances of successful treatment outcomes.
Researchers have successfully used gene therapy to partially correct protein deficiency responsible for hemophilia B in dogs, suggesting its potential for human treatment. The corrected genes produced blood clotting protein factor IX steadily more than a year and a half after treatment.
Cystic fibrosis damages young lungs due to chronic bacterial infections and a lack of liquid layer, which hinders the body's natural cleansing process. Researchers have discovered that the film of liquid coating airways is depleted in CF patients, preventing cilia from functioning properly.