Articles tagged with Urban Studies
A recent study published in The Lancet Planetary Health found that residents near irregularly shaped community parks have a lower mortality risk compared to those living near traditional square-shaped parks. The researchers, led by Huaquing Wang and Lou Tassinary, analyzed land cover data from Philadelphia and discovered that the compl...
The CHIRPY DRAGON program, developed to prevent obesity in urban primary school-aged children in China, showed significant beneficial effects on healthy eating habits, physical activity, and sedentary behavior. Children who received the program had a lower body-mass index compared to those in control schools.
A study of 180 gunshot wound survivors found that they experienced negative outcomes in terms of employment, alcohol and substance use, and mental health compared to the general population. Nearly half of the survivors screened positive for posttraumatic stress disorder.
A new study found that certain urban areas have significantly higher rates of heroin use among high school students, with Latina and white girls in Duval County, Florida, showing the highest figures for non-medical prescription opioid misuse. The findings underscore the need for tailored services to address adolescent opioid abuse.
Researchers used ground-penetrating radar to resolve 96% of human tracks at White Sands National Monument, gaining insights into biomechanics and extinct fauna. The technique may unlock behavioral and biomechanical archives of Pleistocene animals.
Studies found that urban emergency department patients who face unemployment and food insufficiency are more likely to smoke. Socioeconomic stressors also affect the likelihood of smoking among men and women, with certain groups showing different patterns.
A study by St. Michael's Hospital found that living in less walkable neighborhoods is associated with a higher predicted 10-year cardiovascular risk, up to 33% higher than in the most walkable areas. Individuals in these neighborhoods also experience higher blood pressure and increased odds of prior diabetes diagnosis.
A new study by NYU researchers found that children living within a half-block of fast-food outlets were 20% obese and 38% overweight. The farther away from unhealthy food sources, the lower obesity rates, with significant reductions at just one or two blocks distance.
A new study from the University of Illinois introduces a tool that helps quantify the connection between traffic accidents and city road networks. Researchers found that commuters willing to take longer trips can reduce accidents by up to 18%.
Researchers found that poor urban consumers in Uganda and Kenya are willing to pay a premium for more nutritious flour, with up to 94% of respondents agreeing to pay more. The study highlights the potential for improving nutrition among the urban poor through targeted policy interventions.
A study by the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies found that mosquitoes in lower-income neighborhoods have larger bodies, which can transmit diseases more efficiently. The researchers measured wing length and habitat features to understand how socioeconomic conditions influence mosquito-borne disease risk.
A Rutgers researcher found that people riding off-road vehicles on city streets suffer similar crash injuries as motorcyclists, with a lower mortality rate due to less frequent helmet use. The study compared 1,556 injured riders from 2005 to 2016 and found similar rates of traumatic brain injuries and levels of consciousness.
A new study suggests that urban and home gardens, combined with nutrition education, can improve a range of health behaviors in low-income households. Participants reported increased healthy eating, physical activity, and reduced stress after participating in the gardening program.
In a study of 489 US counties, rural areas had significantly longer drive times to opioid treatment programs, averaging 41-49 minutes. Reducing these times could increase access to methadone treatment in rural areas.
A new study published in Health and Place found that living close to the coast supports better mental health in England's poorest urban areas. The research analyzed data from nearly 26,000 respondents and revealed a link between coastal proximity and reduced symptoms of mental health disorders among low-income households.
A two-year study in Sydney's urban coastal environments reveals that some beaches have elevated levels of antibiotic-resistant bacteria following rainfall. The research highlights the exchange between human wastewater streams and natural ecosystems, posing a risk to human exposure to antibiotic-resistance bacteria.
A new study from Northwestern University explains why big cities generate more crime: it's easier for criminals to find collaborators. The study found that certain types of crime, such as robbery and car theft, exponentially outpace the population.
The study found that high levels of social support were associated with reduced risk behaviors, and that mentoring was linked to a lower likelihood of gang involvement. These findings suggest understanding the associations between different types of violence and their related risk factors may help in prevention efforts.
Researchers found that high blood pressure accelerates cognitive decline, but treating high blood pressure slows it down. Participants ages 55 and older with high blood pressure showed a more rapid rate of cognitive decline compared to those being treated for high blood pressure.
A study by Wake Forest School of Medicine found that youth football players with higher vertical jumping ability and faster times in speed and agility drills experience more head impacts, especially during games. The researchers analyzed performance on physical ability tests and on-field head impact data to quantify exposure.
A preliminary research study suggests that treating high blood pressure may slow down cognitive decline among middle-aged and older adults. The study found that participants with high blood pressure showed a more rapid rate of cognitive decline compared to those being treated for high blood pressure.
According to the PURE study, cancer is now the leading cause of death globally, accounting for 26% of all deaths. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a significant cause of mortality, particularly in high-income countries where its burden has decreased.
A large international study found that more than 70% of cardiovascular disease and deaths globally may be attributed to a small number of modifiable risk factors. The 14 identified risk factors include hypertension, low education, poor diet, air pollution, and indoor air pollution, which have varying impacts on health across countries ...
Scientists have found that rising carbon dioxide concentration in the air enhances land carbon sink, a process known as carbon dioxide fertilization. For every 100-ppm increase in CO2, terrestrial carbon sink increases by 0.64 billion tons of carbon per year globally.
A five-year study aims to examine the impact of ecological restoration on health and wellness in low-income Detroit neighborhoods. Researchers will assess the health of 700 residents while restoring parks, measuring physical wellbeing and stress levels.
A $2 million NSF grant will support the study of nature-based strategies to prevent urban flooding and manage stormwater in cities like Pittsburgh and Chicago. The project aims to develop engineering tools that integrate green infrastructure with existing built systems to improve water quality and ecological health.
A University of Kansas study found that dominant groups in the education system manipulate disability categories to exclude racial minorities and keep them out of most desirable special education programs. The researchers documented how upper-class white students were moved into what was once considered the least desirable category, an...
Scientists at Institute of Atmospheric Physics use a new method to track pollution from cooking by applying a black carbon tracer. COA contributes 15-27% to total organic aerosol in summer and even more than 10% during heating periods, with significant enhancements of coal combustion emissions.
A Boston University study finds that laws restricting who can have a gun are most effective in reducing firearm homicides, with different laws more effective in urban and suburban/rural areas. Universal background checks and stringent concealed carry laws show promise in reducing urban and suburban/rural rates.
A new Rutgers University study found a significant link between the concentration of federally licensed firearms dealers in urban counties and intimate partner homicide in the home, regardless of victim age or gender. The researchers suggest that easy access to legal guns in urban areas can increase the risk of intimate partner violence.
Researchers at Indiana University created the first global map of labor flow in collaboration with LinkedIn, revealing skills and industries in high demand across the U.S. and globally. The study also identified growing industries such as pharmaceuticals and oil and gas, while others like retail and telecommunications are declining.
A review of 33 years' worth of medical studies reveals key areas for new research to explore. The study found that only a few hundred studies have been published on the topic, many with methodological flaws. Experts recommend more research on larger samples, school- and family-level risk factors, and protective factors.
A Rutgers-led study shows that permeable concrete pavement can reduce pavement temperature by up to 30% and reflect more heat than asphalt pavement. The design improves with high thermal conductivity, further reducing heat output.
A new Yale University study reveals that banning tobacco sales to people under age 21 significantly reduces smoking rates among 18- to 20-year-olds. The study found a 10% drop in smoking among these age group when local tobacco-21 laws are implemented, with effects expected to be even greater at the state level.
A first-of-its-kind study found that neighborhood economics, education, and perceptions of social disorder are linked to poor mental health in urban black men. Neighborhood deprivation and disconnectedness are also associated with poor physical health outcomes.
A study by the University of Birmingham found that homeless individuals in the UK often experience casual neglect, discrimination, and inadequate resources when accessing NHS services. Specialist healthcare centers for homeless people show high satisfaction rates but are underfunded.
A new study by the Crowther Lab suggests that global forest restoration could capture two-thirds of human-made carbon emissions. The study found that there is potential to increase the world's forest land by a third without affecting cities or agriculture, with forests capable of storing 205 billion tonnes of carbon once mature.
Researchers found that at least one bystander intervenes in every public fight to help the victim, with increasing numbers leading to more interventions. The study, which analyzed CCTV footage from three cities, suggests that intervention is a human universal and can be encouraged through crime prevention efforts.
The Urban Studies Institute has been awarded a two-year grant to study the impact of mobility support options on the health behaviors and outcomes of low-income individuals with Type 2 diabetes in metro Atlanta. The research aims to address social barriers to health, reduce healthcare costs and advance health equity.
LGBT-identifying females are at increased risk of substance use starting at age 13, with rates 400% higher than heterosexual peers. Early intervention efforts may help prevent substance use and reduce disparities.
A new study by Purdue University researchers found that racial biases in physician-patient communication can impact pain treatment for cancer patients. The study, conducted over five years, used standardized patients to observe primary care physicians and oncologists in urban and rural settings.
A survey conducted by Drexel University found that 90% of residents and 63% of business owners/staff in Kensington support opening an overdose prevention site. The study also revealed statistically significant differences in opinions among different demographic groups, with those who use opioids and Asian, African American, and Hispani...
A study of over 600 urban black men hospitalized for serious injuries found that those with violent injuries had more severe mental health symptoms. Prior life experiences, including adverse childhood experiences and neighborhood disadvantage, were identified as key risk factors for post-injury depression and PTSD.
Research reveals that urban pollution from Manaus significantly impacts cloud production and rainfall in the Amazon, with far-reaching consequences for regional and global climate patterns. The study found an average increase of 200% in secondary organic aerosols, leading to a 400% boost in aerosol formation.
A new study found that African American men are more likely to visit a doctor's office or clinic for healthcare due to higher threat sensitivity and having insurance. In contrast, those with lower threat sensitivity and no usual place for healthcare were more likely to frequent the emergency room.
A study on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's RAD program found mostly positive results among residents at three conversion sites in Central California. Residents reported improved unit conditions, safety, and resident resources, but also safety concerns and pest infestations that were not fully resolved.
A new PSU study finds that children's disability statuses depend on their school and peer group. The study discovered inconsistent disability classifications across schools and highlighted the subjective and socially rooted nature of these determinations.
A novel method of embedding child psychiatric care in an urban pediatrics clinic increases access to and engagement in psychiatric care among primarily Latino patients. The study found that nearly two-thirds of referred patients completed evaluations, with younger children and those with a history of therapy more likely to do so.
A recent study has found that rural areas are experiencing a faster rate of obesity growth than cities, with an average increase of 2.1 kg/m2 in women and men since 1985. This trend is driven by factors such as increased income, better infrastructure, and changes in food consumption patterns.
Researchers from NYU Tandon School of Engineering have developed models to assess pollution exposures at the neighborhood level, but propose advancing to individual-level assessments using data from environmental sensors, mobile, and wearable devices. This could provide evidence-based arguments for change, particularly impacting indivi...
A new study from the University of British Columbia found that teenagers prefer harm reduction messaging when discussing substance use, instead of traditional 'don't do drugs' approaches. The study's findings suggest that a non-judgmental approach to talking about substance use can help preserve family relationships and promote youth h...
A recent study by the University of Helsinki found that over half of residents on housing estates want to move away due to economic constraints. Involuntary staying is linked with perceived poor health, stress, and cramped residential arrangements.
Green roofs have been found to improve indoor air quality by reducing ozone levels, according to a PSU study. The research involved comparing air quality between a green roof and a conventional white membrane roof on a retail store in North Portland.
A study by Sara Vinyals found that cultural attractions and gastronomy are critical elements in competing urban destinations. The analysis of official websites from twelve European cities revealed a significant presence of strategies focused on leisure and culture.
A new study suggests that reflective roofs can reduce peak daytime temperatures in cities by up to 3oC during a heatwave. This could offset around 25% of heat-related mortality associated with the urban heat island effect.
A study by Lerman and D'Amico found that less frequent lawn mowing in suburban areas has no detectable effect on blacklegged tick populations. In fact, the researchers documented 111 bee species across 16 lawns, highlighting a viable habitat for native bees.
A recent study suggests that trees are essential for mitigating the urban heat island effect, with 40% canopy cover required to trigger significant cooling effects. The research found that even small increases in tree density can lead to substantial reductions in temperatures, making tree planting a key strategy for city planners.
A study in Madison, Wisconsin found that urban air temperatures decrease with increasing canopy cover during the day but exhibit limited cooling at night. The results suggest that effective heat mitigation strategies involve both increasing canopy cover and decreasing impervious surface cover.
A global study reveals that modern coal-fired power stations emit more ultrafine dust particles than road traffic, modifying and redistributing rainfall patterns on local to regional scales. This can lead to extreme weather events, including intense rain and dry conditions.
A new study found that urban children with poorly controlled asthma experience higher school absences and lower academic performance. Ethnic minority children, particularly Latino kids, face greater disparities in academic outcomes due to unique stressors related to their background and migration experiences.