Researchers found that anti-microbial agents were most effective in reducing bacteria, while physical removal with soap and water was best for removing viruses from hands. Waterless handwipes only removed 50% of bacteria, highlighting the importance of traditional hand washing.
A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism reveals a significant association between serum hyaluronan (HA) levels and osteoarthritis severity. The research, conducted on over 3,000 volunteers, suggests that HA levels may serve as a biomarker for diagnosing osteoarthritis.
Fuel cells could power laptops for a week, reducing recharging time, and provide efficient energy for cars, buses, and mobile devices. UNC researchers are developing liquid precursors to enhance PEM membrane performance, paving the way for more effective fuel cell manufacturing.
Researchers found that when individual insects were removed from their groups, they suffered high mortality rates due to predation. In contrast, group-traveling insects remained relatively safe, suggesting that band formation provides a protective advantage.
A study conducted by Dr. James Carson and his wife Kimberly found that mindfulness meditation can help couples reduce interpersonal stress and boost their satisfaction with each other by 50%. The eight-week training sessions taught couples how to become more aware of the present moment and direct positive feelings toward their loved ones.
Researchers found that male Cassin's finches sing more in response to the loss of a prospective mate, but less when females are present or infertile. The scientists conclude that males temper their efforts based on the likelihood of a payoff.
A recent study reveals that US homes suffer from over 12 million nonfatal unintentional injuries annually, with falls, poisoning, and burn injuries being the leading causes of such incidents. The research emphasizes the critical need for action to reduce injury risks within the home, particularly among vulnerable age groups.
A study of 502 patients with coronary artery disease found that statin therapy lowered both LDL cholesterol and C-reactive protein levels, leading to slower disease progression. The research suggests that inflammation plays a key role in cardiovascular disease and may be useful in patient management.
A study by Dr. Kathryn M. Rose found that individuals with migraines or other severe headaches were three times more likely to report chest pain compared to those without such conditions. However, the study did not find a significant association between headaches and coronary heart disease.
A recent study found that in 55% of homes with young children, household chemicals were stored in accessible locations, while one-third of U.S. gun owners kept firearms unlocked at home. The odds of reported unlocked storage of guns and household poisonous chemicals were two and a half times higher when young children visited.
The UNC study found that schools with a Tobacco-Free School policy had significantly fewer instances of smoking at football games than those without such a policy. Compliance varied widely between schools and from game to game, but was highest when schools clearly communicated their policy using signs and public announcements.
Scientists discovered pigeons have a magnetic sense beyond simple compass, supporting theory that birds use magnetic map to navigate. The study found magnetic receptors located in the nasal region and suggests magnetite-based ability.
A nationwide study found that only 36% of teenagers achieved moderate to vigorous physical activity weekly, and only 4.4% maintained this level into adulthood. This decline in physical activity contributes to the rising burden of obesity and related health issues in the US.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill develop new technique to trap single water molecule inside protein molecule using mass spectrometry, improving inhibitor molecules for cancer treatment. The discovery may lead to more effective combination therapies with anti-cancer agents like cytarabine.
A new study by UNC researchers reveals that Hispanics in the South suffer more fatal occupational injuries than blacks or other groups. The findings highlight the need for greater injury prevention efforts focused on Hispanic workers in the region.
A new study found that tamoxifen would only prevent a maximum of 6-8% of breast tumors in eligible women, while its harmful side effects rule out 90% of potential beneficiaries. The researchers suggest that other chemopreventive agents without the same side effects could be more effective in saving lives.
A study found that energy intake from soft drinks in the US rose by 135% between 1977 and 2001, while milk intake decreased by 38%. This shift is linked to increased obesity rates.
Researchers monitored PAHs in smoke and soot after 9/11, finding high levels initially but diminishing rapidly. The study suggests little lifetime cancer risk for people living near Ground Zero, but possible effects on unborn babies.
Researchers at UNC found that 77% of red snapper samples were mislabeled as another species, including lane snapper and vermilion snapper. This widespread mislabeling threatens to distort fish stock estimates and fisheries management.
The study found that three players died during the 2003 season due to direct injuries suffered on the field, while seven others died from natural causes related to strenuous exercise. Coaches need to prioritize player safety by ensuring they get enough water, taking regular cooling breaks, and monitoring temperature and humidity levels.
Researchers found a shift in burden of disease as economic growth expands, with poorer women more affected. Obesity risk increases for those in lower-middle income countries above $2,995 per capita income.
A new study suggests that aspirin reduces breast cancer risk by 20% among women with ER-positive tumors, a type of postmenopausal breast cancer. The protection is strongest among daily aspirin users and those taking seven or more tablets per week.
A new study by UNC researchers reveals a high prevalence of chlamydia in US young adults, with rates significantly higher among black men and women. The study found that the infection was present in all racial groups but was most common in the South.
Ribosomes, critical sites of protein synthesis, speed up chemical transformation through entropic origin, not lowering energy barrier like conventional enzymes. This discovery helps scientists understand ribosome function and design inhibitors for protein synthesis.
A research team at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has found evidence that sea turtles can read geographic position from subtle variations in the Earth's magnetic field. Older turtles use this ability to pinpoint their location relative to specific target areas, effectively having a biological equivalent of GPS.
A new UNC study found that child abuse brain injuries were five times more common in the hardest-hit counties after Hurricane Floyd, while non-abuse injuries increased by over 10 times. The research suggests that families affected by the disaster experienced heightened stress, poverty, and depression.
Researchers challenge traditional views on volcano eruptions, finding evidence that giant eruptions are significantly less likely than previously thought. They discovered that plutons, which form beneath volcanoes, are built by small molten intrusions over millions of years.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill are working on a new program to improve employment in long-term care facilities, focusing on recruitment and retention strategies, including better pay, recognition, and training. The project aims to address staffing shortages and improve the quality of life for nursing home residents.
Most families enrolled in early intervention programs report a satisfactory experience, but face challenges such as long wait times and limited access. The study highlights the need for improved systems to support families with children at risk of disabilities.
A recent study by researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found that a lack of choline during pregnancy can lead to reduced brain cell formation and impaired memory in children. The scientists discovered that choline plays a crucial role in regulating stem cell division, which is essential for brain development.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill will become a regional hub for research on health workforce and healthcare access. The new center aims to provide timely information to policymakers about critical health workforce issues, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Laws regulating short hospital stays in the US led to an average increase of 16 days in postpartum care for privately insured women. Hospital charges also rose by $200 per patient. The effects varied across states, with some seeing significant improvements in maternal health outcomes.
Researchers found few potential problems arose in NC school districts after banning smoking on school grounds, with successful policy enforcement attributed to consistent support and youth involvement. Long-term outcomes show a lower likelihood of adolescents starting or continuing to smoke.
The study found that oil's negative effects last far longer than expected, with some species suffering long-term losses due to chronic exposure. The findings highlight the importance of controlling stormwater runoff and revising water quality standards to mitigate pollution.
A study by University of North Carolina researchers suggests that chemical nutrients washed into the sea can increase the severity of coral diseases, leading to significant declines in Caribbean reef health. The findings support calls for reducing nutrient pollution from agricultural runoff, sewage and deforestation.
A global study found that caloric sweetener use increased worldwide, driven by soft drink consumption. The study analyzed data from 103 countries and showed a significant rise in added sugar intake between 1962 and 2000, primarily attributed to soft drinks and fruit drinks.
Researchers found that black patients undergoing surgery had a median survival time 1.8 years less than white patients, with disparities smaller among radiation therapy and non-aggressive therapy groups. The study suggests genetic and environmental factors may contribute to these racial disparities in prostate cancer treatment outcomes.
A recent study found that one in eight North Carolina schoolchildren have three or more heart risks, including low HDL levels and obesity. The researchers attribute this to the prevalence of overweight children among girls, which increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Researchers found that younger adults with growth hormone deficiency require higher doses of the hormone to maintain healthy bones and reduce the risk of heart disease. The study's findings could change clinical practice in the US and abroad, suggesting that treatment should be restarted at a lower dose for older adults.
Adolescents of mixed races report more health problems, including smoking, drinking, and poor school experiences. Stress and lack of self-esteem are believed to contribute to these issues, highlighting the need for targeted programs to support biracial adolescents.
Using National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health data, researchers found that 18% and 15% of black and Hispanic females respectively became obese over the five-year exam period. Obesity rates among older adolescents were higher and more likely to remain stable or increase.
A recent UNC study found that over 90% of internet cigarette vendors sold cigarettes to minors despite warnings about age restrictions. The researchers also discovered that many vendors did not verify the age of buyers and left packages unattended at recipients' doors.
A study found that osteopathic physicians were more likely to use patients' first names, explain medical conditions, and discuss social and emotional impacts of illnesses. Osteopaths also asked patients more questions about their concerns, while allopaths focused on the scientific basis of treatment.
The UNC study found that residents with access to trails, sidewalks, and well-lit streets were more likely to meet the recommended physical activity levels. Notably, blacks, American Indians, and those with lower education and income levels reported less favorable neighborhood environments and reduced access to exercise spaces.
A University of North Carolina study found that infant boys born to younger mothers and non-white mothers are disproportionately affected by shaken baby syndrome. The research estimated 306 child deaths per year from the condition, highlighting the need for increased awareness and preventive interventions among healthcare providers.
A study found that long-term caregivers experienced a rapid increase in proinflammatory cytokine levels, which continued even after the care recipient died. The research suggests that chronic stress can prematurely age the immune response and contribute to various age-related diseases.
A study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that Hurricane Floyd caused substantial changes in healthcare patterns that lasted for over a year. The storm led to increased use of emergency rooms and outpatient services, particularly among Medicaid recipients, with estimated costs of $13.3 million.
A phase 2 clinical trial found that bortezomib responded positively in 193 relapsed patients, including seven with undetectable myeloma protein and 12 with detectable protein only with immunofixation. The results confirmed significant clinical benefits from therapy.
The American College of Sports Medicine honors Dr. Mueller, a renowned expert in athletic injury research, for his 35-year dedication to making sports safer. His work has led to significant rule changes, safety equipment updates, and a reduction in injuries and fatalities across various sports.
Researchers found that treatment helps reduce depression and feelings of isolation in patients, but it does not change the risk of future heart attacks or death. Half of the study participants received psychological counseling and behavioral therapy, while the other half got standard medical care.