Marine biologists propose that animals learn the unique magnetic signature of their home area early in life and retain it to navigate back to their birthplace for reproduction. The theory suggests that magnetic imprinting helps animals distinguish their home location from others, allowing them to return years later.
Scientists at UNC Chapel Hill and Vanderbilt University Medical Center successfully recreated the bat variant of the SARS coronavirus, a major step forward in developing effective vaccines and treatments. The research could help prevent future outbreaks by identifying key pathways in virus emergence.
Researchers from UNC Chapel Hill found that water behaves differently inside carbon nanotubes depending on temperature, with potential implications for ultra-tiny devices and biological structures. The study's findings may lead to new technologies such as nano-fluidic chips and permeable membranes.
A new UNC study reveals that good parenting can counteract the effect of genes in babies' responses to stress, even at early ages. The research, published in Child Development, suggests a strong interplay between environmental experiences and genetics in shaping physiological responses to stress.
Morphormics' proprietary technology enables the rapid creation of anatomical roadmaps, improving radiation treatment planning and delivery decisions. The grant will support marketing efforts to bring this UNC-developed technology to patients with prostate cancer worldwide.
Researchers at UNC are developing a unique way to deliver a nucleic acid derived from bacteria to tumors, allowing the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancerous cells. The goal is to create a reliable delivery method for immunotherapy, which has shown promise but faces challenges in consistency.
A new UNC study finds that families with disabled children, regardless of income level, experience significant challenges with food, housing, and health issues. The study suggests expanding eligibility standards for federal programs to assist these families, including increasing income limits for food stamps and housing assistance.
Researchers at UNC School of Public Health studied over 750 Chinese men and women and found that those who used MSG in their food preparation had a higher prevalence of overweight, even when controlling for physical activity and calorie intake. The study suggests that MSG use may be associated with weight gain in humans.
A UNC study reveals that nanoparticles designed with a specific shape, size, and surface chemistry are taken up by cells differently depending on these attributes. This finding could lead to more effective treatment methods for various diseases, including cancer and diabetes.
A recent study published in the peer-reviewed journal AIDS found a significant association between bacterial vaginosis and an increased risk of HIV infection. The analysis of over 30,700 women from around the world showed that women with BV were more likely to acquire HIV than those without it.
A new study found that out-of-pocket healthcare costs for disabled children in the US vary significantly by state. Families in Georgia and Louisiana face the highest costs, while those in Massachusetts pay the least. The financial burden of caring for a child with disabilities is estimated to be high due to their greater medical needs.
Researchers at UNC have identified specific prescription drugs that increase the risk of falls for patients aged 65 and older who take four or more medications. These medications, including antidepressants and painkillers, work to depress the central nervous system, making patients less alert and slower to react.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Public Health has received a $3.4 million grant to develop the Carolina Center for Computational Toxicology, which aims to advance computational toxicology by developing new methods and tools.
Researchers highlight the significant health impacts of psychosocial factors on HIV-infected individuals and the spread of AIDS. Interventions addressing depression, stress, and coping can help ameliorate negative effects on patient outcomes.
Researchers at UNC have shown that transplantation of adult stem cells can improve healing of fractures in animal models. The study provides a scientific foundation for future clinical trials and could lead to a new treatment for millions of people suffering from bone union failure.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill found that non-white defendants are nearly twice as likely to receive severe prison sentences than white defendants. The study of North Carolina cases from 2000 and 2001 highlights the need for re-examining judicial responses to child abuse.
Geneticist James P. Evans cautions against rushing into genetic testing, citing limited evidence of improved health outcomes and potential patient harm. Despite advances in genomics, Evans believes the technology has not yet been proven to yield meaningful information for individualized health advice.
A research team led by UNC School of Public Health is investigating how interactive digital games can be designed to increase energy expenditure among young adults. The study aims to understand the impact of game design elements such as controller types, player perspective, and presence on players' motivation and physical activity.
Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing found that stretching exercises reduced preeclampsia incidence by less than 5% compared to walking. The study suggests that stretching may be a protective effect against preeclampsia, particularly for women with a high risk of developing the condition.
A UNC study found a consistent association between six-month to one-year persistent HPV infections and high-grade cervical lesions or cervical cancer. The study suggests that measuring HPV persistence could optimize screening for cervical cancer by increasing sensitivity while maintaining specificity.
A new study by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill suggests that radiofrequency ablation is a highly effective treatment for dysplasia in people with Barrett's esophagus. The procedure destroyed up to 85% of abnormal cells, leaving behind no evidence of Barrett's in 74% of patients.
Research linked parents' psychiatric disorders to autism in children, revealing a higher rate of schizophrenia and depression among mothers. The study suggests genetic and environmental factors may be shared among related diseases.
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found that behavioral change strategies improved public hospital care in Latin America by reducing bleeding and saving lives. Interventions reduced episiotomies and increased oxytocin use, leading to significant improvements in childbirth safety.
Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill have discovered aggregates of red and white blood cells in patients with sickle cell disease. These clumps may play a role in blocking small blood vessels, causing sudden painful episodes.
A team of researchers at UNC Chapel Hill has discovered new targets for cancer treatment by identifying proteins that promote blood vessel formation in tumors. The study found 55 genes overexpressed in breast cancer vessels, offering potential new targets for therapy.
Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill have discovered that people with melanoma on their scalp or neck are more likely to die from the disease. The analysis of 51,704 melanoma cases found that survival rates differ depending on where skin cancer first appears.
Scientists at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found that not all heart cells respond equally to the same cue before differentiating. This discovery may lead to advances in understanding and treating congenital heart disease and heart attacks by identifying multiple types of heart cell progenitors.
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study found that early child neglect is associated with higher levels of aggressive behavior between ages 4 and 8. The study, which monitored over 1,300 children from birth to age 8, highlights the importance of addressing childhood neglect.
A new study found that young children who lead inactive lifestyles are five-to-six times more likely to develop metabolic syndrome, a condition linked to heart disease and diabetes. The study tracked the same group of children over time, measuring factors such as body mass, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, to show the importance...
Cyanobacteria blooms are becoming more frequent and widespread due to global warming, posing a threat to human health and water ecosystems. The algae can cause digestive, neurological, and skin diseases in humans, and deplete oxygen in water reservoirs.
A team of scientists discovered cellulose microfibers in ancient salt deposits, estimated to be 253 million years old. This finding suggests that cellulose may have played a role in the development of life on Earth and could potentially serve as a 'paper trail' for searching for life on other planets.
A study of Lincoln's sparrows reveals that first-laid eggs are less likely to hatch, while older siblings have an advantage in terms of resources and competition. This finding challenges the common assumption that younger chicks are more vulnerable due to size disparities with their peers.
A follow-up study of WHI participants found an increased risk of invasive breast cancer and other cancers in women taking estrogen plus progestin. The risk of heart disease, stroke, and blood clots decreased after the intervention was stopped.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill have created silica nanoparticles that store and release nitric oxide to kill bacteria effectively. This approach avoids the issue of controlling NO release with small molecules, which can be toxic to healthy cells.
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis are at a higher risk of developing depression due to chronic pain and functional disability. Only one in five RA patients discuss their symptoms with their rheumatologists, highlighting the need for improved communication about mental health.
A global threat map reveals that every square kilometer of the world's oceans is affected by human activities, with rising ocean temperatures being the most pervasive threat. The study found that almost half of all coral reefs have recently experienced medium- to high-level impacts, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts.
Researchers at UNC School of Public Health found that noroviruses mutate genetically, similar to the flu virus. This discovery suggests a vaccine may be possible to prevent norovirus infections.
Researchers identify the first protein to activate G-protein signaling from within a cell, opening up new pathways for drug development. The discovery of Arr4 could lead to more selective and effective medications with fewer side effects.
Heavy cannabis users, especially those who smoke it almost weekly, are at higher risk of mild and severe gum disease. The study suggests that reducing cannabis use may also help reduce the prevalence of gum disease.
A national study found digital mammography performed better than film in pre- and perimenopausal women under 50 with dense breasts. The study, DMIST, also showed improved diagnostic accuracy for digital mammography over film for some subgroups.
A $7 million statewide shaken baby prevention project launched in North Carolina, aiming to reduce deaths and serious injuries caused by caregivers shaking crying babies. The project provides an intervention program called 'The Period of PURPLE Crying' to educate parents on normal infant crying and healthy ways to cope with frustration.
A study found that providing a biological and genetic explanation for anorexia nervosa reduced blame towards individuals with the disorder. The research suggests that disseminating accurate information about the underlying causes of anorexia can help decrease stigma.
Researchers identified a critical role for the hormone adrenomedullin in forming the lymphatic system, which could lead to new treatments for lymphedema. Targeting this hormone may also prevent cancer cells from spreading through lymphatic vessels.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill used high-tech helmets to measure g-force and find that hits above 80g do not always result in concussions, challenging conventional theories about mild traumatic brain injuries. The study advises against a one-size-fits-all rule for evaluating concussions.
Researchers have discovered a protein called CIB1 that plays a major role in controlling new blood vessel growth, providing a potential target for drug therapies. The findings may help control unwanted blood vessel growth in diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and wound healing.
A study found that beverage calorie intake nearly doubled from 1965 to 2002, providing an average of 21% of daily energy intake among US adults. This increase contributes significantly to the obesity crisis, with additional calories coming from sugary drinks, alcohol, and other high-calorie beverages.
Researchers found combining methotrexate with a biologic medication works better than using either alone. The combination also shows short-term results in reducing joint inflammation and improving quality of life.
A study by UNC researchers concludes that people over 60 with high blood pressure are less likely to receive lifestyle modification advice from their doctors compared to younger groups. Despite this, most patients remember receiving some type of advice on making healthier choices to lower their blood pressure.
A University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study finds that psychological factors, including traumatic life events like abuse, accelerate HIV disease progression and mortality. The research suggests that clinicians should screen patients for depression and trauma to improve health outcomes.
A lack of civil registration systems in Africa and Asia hinders policymakers' ability to make informed public health decisions. Affordable solutions exist to collect vital statistics, which must be implemented urgently to address the 'scandal of invisibility'.