Articles tagged with Urban Studies
A study by researchers at Incheon National University found that pedestrian and roadside facilities have a substantial direct effect on crash outcomes, particularly for run-off crashes. The team suggests prioritizing these modifiable operational features in road safety strategies to improve safety.
A new study reveals that 25 of the 28 most populous US cities are sinking, with some areas subsiding at rates of over 5 millimeters per year. The primary cause is massive ongoing groundwater extraction, which can lead to stresses on infrastructure and buildings.
Research reveals nature-relatedness is crucial for improving well-being in urban areas with poor socioeconomic conditions. Early-life exposure and equitable access to nature are essential factors in public health.
Researchers discovered people from both income groups experience meaningful nature connections in community gardens, despite lacking nearby greenspace. Community gardens provide habitat, access to nature, and health benefits for people and biodiversity.
A long-term follow-up study found that cycling among older adults improves health and life expectancy, particularly among nondrivers, who experience lower risks of long-term care requirements and mortality. Cycling contributes to maintaining physical and mental health, making it a vital lifestyle companion for this demographic.
Research reveals subpar healthcare services in Global South cities, with frequent medicine shortages and inadequate long-term condition management. Innovative policy approaches are needed to balance public service expansion and private subsidies to improve access and equity for marginalized populations.
A study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology found a gene mutation in bed bugs that may contribute to their resistance to insecticides. The researchers, led by Warren Booth, discovered the mutation in 134 unique populations of bed bugs collected from North America between 2008-22.
A new study found that a 2018 US public housing smoking ban led to reduced hospitalizations for cardiovascular problems. The ban resulted in modest declines in heart attacks incidence rates and small differential declines in strokes among adults aged over 50.
A University of Florida study reveals that termites are spreading globally via boats, causing significant damage and economic loss. The research highlights the importance of boat inspections to prevent the spread of invasive termite species.
A study found that migrants experience a 'clear change' in their gut microbiome composition after migration, leading to increased rates of cardiovascular disease. The Amsterdam UMC-led research showed that specific groups of microbes disappear or emerge along the migration axis.
Researchers at Lund University found that hedgehogs collected from urban areas in Sweden contained high concentrations of lead, pesticides, and other pollutants. The study provides an environmental fingerprint of urban ecosystems, highlighting the need for increased monitoring and reduced use of synthetic materials.
Police reports of hate crimes in 42 major US cities declined 2.7% in 2024, with anti-Jewish and anti-Muslim hate crimes rising 12% and 18%, respectively. Anti-Jewish hate crimes reached record levels in several cities, while anti-Asian hate crimes fell more than 14%. The upward trend is attributed to the timing of the Israel-Gaza war.
A recent study found substantial rural-urban disparities in cardiometabolic risk factors and cardiovascular diseases among US adults. Social risk factors are identified as the primary driver of these disparities, with efforts to address socioeconomic conditions in rural communities critical to reducing the gap.
Researchers at PSU used ODOT's push-button data to estimate pedestrian counts, develop a workflow for integrating traffic counts into the enterprise system, and explore applications in pedestrian infrastructure planning. The new dashboard allows agencies to analyze usage patterns and prioritize upgrades at high-demand locations.
A study of over 97 citizen scientists found that coastal areas have significantly more litter than inland locations, with urban areas consistently exhibiting more litter than rural areas. The research highlights the need for tailored waste management strategies to address regional differences in litter patterns.
A study by Dr. Haruka Kato found that households with children during the COVID-19 pandemic prioritized migration destinations with favorable communities and strong community ties. Social interaction-related factors emerged as significant determinants of migration, contrasting with work, environment, and housing determinants.
A study developed an integrated assessment framework to help policymakers and urban planners translate digital participation data into actionable strategies. The framework balances transparency and representativeness in decision-making, highlighting the need for long-term tracking of participation outcomes.
A new study by the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology reveals striking quantitative similarities between ancient and modern cities regarding elite wealth concentration. As cities grow larger, elite wealth increases in a sublinear way, with diminishing returns on each increase in city size.
A study from the University of Missouri found that rural first-time moms are more likely to stop breastfeeding due to a lack of practical knowledge, community support, and access to lactation consultants. The research aims to improve support and resources for new mothers in rural areas.
Cervical cancer incidence increased in rural US counties, with higher rates among white women, likely due to lower screening coverage and diagnostic care utilization. Rural areas may experience heightened access barriers, contributing to lower HPV vaccine uptake.
Researchers analyzed over 9,200 towns and cities in Africa from 1950-2020 using remote sensing data to understand the evolution of urban systems. The study verifies the universality of urban system laws in African cities and identifies specific rules governing population growth and land use.
A Danish study found that rural cat owners are increasingly managing their cats similarly to urban owners, leading to fewer unwanted kittens. The change reflects a growing human attachment to owned cats and a diminishing divide between rural and urban life.
Researchers found urban sprawl and poor waste management led to an abundance of plastic waste. Burning plastic releases harmful chemicals, posing health risks to women and children. The issue affects millions in cities struggling with basic services.
A task group led by Samuel L. Manzello is developing international standards for large outdoor fires, including wildland-urban interface (WUI) fires. The new standards aim to improve resilience against these types of fires, which are becoming increasingly common due to urbanization and climate change.
A new method developed by Osaka Metropolitan University accurately predicts housing prices in Osaka City, with neighborhood perception being a key factor. The approach achieves nearly 75% accuracy by combining existing property data with machine-learning-processed street view images.
A study reveals that large cities have ceased to be centers of upward social and economic mobility, with population density and connectedness associated with reduced intergenerational mobility. Urban expansion has also led to decreased average social capital, contributing to growing inequality within and across generations.
A global study published in JACC found that secondary prevention medications for cardiovascular diseases are underused worldwide, with little improvement over time. Medication use varied by country income level, with lower rates in low-income countries.
A new study by the University of Illinois links traffic delays with increased visits to fast food restaurants, resulting in unhealthier eating habits. The research found that even short delays can lead to a spike in fast food visits, especially during evening rush hour.
A study reveals how skateboarders utilize skatesound as a sensory aid and social cue, despite being aware of its noise. The research also highlights the inclusive nature of skateboarding for those with neurodiverse traits.
A recent study found that patients who left emergency departments before being medically advised had higher rates of readmission, mortality, and increased costs. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a 53.6% increase in such cases, primarily due to concerns about infection, long wait times, and dissatisfaction with care.
A study in San Francisco found that coyotes' diets are heavily influenced by the presence of restaurants and impervious surfaces, with consumption of rats highest near restaurants and human-sourced food prevalent in paved areas. This research highlights the adaptability of coyotes to urban environments.
Researchers found greater phonetic markers among Pacific Islander teens in a more diverse school, indicating prominent ethnic boundaries. The study suggests that language shifts serve as subtle signals to establish identity and connect with cultural communities.
The researchers developed a novel camera-based system that adapts to traffic flow in real-time, ensuring efficient monitoring and resource use. The system's two approaches, the Random-Value-Camera-Level Algorithm and the ALL-Random-With-Weight Algorithm, optimize camera usage and save energy while maintaining reliable surveillance.
A new study explores how city life is influencing the evolution of urban coyotes, revealing genetic changes related to diet, health, thermoregulation, behavior, cognition, and reproduction. The research also highlights the challenges of studying urban coyotes, which are increasingly common in urban areas throughout the US.
A study of ancient Roman teeth reveals that urban dwellers weaned their babies earlier than rural communities, following medical recommendations similar to those in modern cities. The findings support the idea that cities act as information hubs and offer more medical resources, leading to closer adherence to expert health guidelines.
A new USC study reveals that the US is facing a shortage of 4.5 million homes due to policy missteps in the early 2000s, which led to a historic housing bubble and subsequent Great Recession. The crisis has disproportionately affected millennials and people of color, with racial and ethnic disparities in homeownership widening over time.
A team of researchers from UniTrento examined how ants manage traffic congestion using pheromone trails and observed individual ant movements. Their findings could provide a model for optimizing autonomous vehicle traffic flow, reducing congestion and emissions.
A $16 million NIH program aims to identify barriers to equitable healthcare for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The research initiative will examine the relationships between healthcare providers and patients, focusing on provider-patient racial concordance and its impact on health outcomes.
Researchers found that people growing up in high-sprawl neighborhoods have less earning potential, with jobs harder to access. Meanwhile, studies also showed that dense mixed-use walkable neighborhoods sometimes have lower intergenerational mobility due to high concentrations of low-income families and single-parent households.
A recent study from Peking University found that modern clean energy sources may exacerbate existing inequalities, particularly for low-income households. The researchers recommend policy solutions like phased clean energy transitions and targeted energy subsidies to ensure a more equitable transition.
Research reveals more American cities are struggling with people living without running water due to unaffordable housing and the cost-of-living crisis. The study found that households of color were disproportionately affected, with 40% of Philadelphia's population but 66% of those without access to running water in 2021.
A national study found that walkable neighborhoods increase walking by 23% due to factors like density of people, roads, and amenities. Living in a walkable area also reduces the chance of no transit use, while vigorous exercise is not necessarily linked to neighborhood walkability.
A study by Politecnico di Milano reveals districts most at risk of cardiovascular emergencies during heat waves in Milan. The research found that 23% of the city's population in 18 vulnerable districts face a 22% increased risk, while 20 low-vulnerability districts show no significant increase.
Researchers developed an interactive screening model called RITA-T, which improved early identification of high-risk toddlers from underserved areas. The study found that toddlers screened via RITA-T had shorter wait times and more accessible diagnostic services compared to those not using the model.
A new study from the University of Surrey found that closing underperforming hospitals can exacerbate health inequalities in rural areas. Patients who rely on closed facilities face increased travel distances for treatment, resulting in significant welfare losses.
Parks have been found to be the most effective solution for reducing overall air pollution, cutting it by 22% in city-wide studies. However, other green spaces like trees and green walls showed mixed results, with some even worsening air quality.
Researchers found that urban Red-shouldered Hawks exhibit stronger aggressive defense behaviors when nesting close to the ground. The study highlights the importance of understanding individual personality traits and environmental factors in determining nest defense behavior.
Research from the University of Kansas found that suburban school districts are becoming more diverse, while urban districts are experiencing increased racial isolation. This study analyzed census data and geographic mapping technology to compare demographic changes in schools across the country.
A serial cross-sectional study found a significant decrease in positive reviews for health care facilities post-COVID, highlighting disparities in patient experience. The disparity is particularly pronounced in rural areas with high proportions of Black and white residents.
Researchers advocate using imagination and 'design-based research' to prepare urban river deltas for climate change. By visualizing possible futures, civic engagement and motivation can be encouraged, leading to more effective climate adaptation.
Residents of Senboku New Town in Japan transformed vacant buildings into supportive housing, community restaurants, and group homes to address aging population challenges. The Senboku Hottokenai Network Project showcases the importance of community-led co-creation in creating Healthy New Towns.
A study found that mountain lions in areas with high human recreation are more nocturnal, adjusting their activity to avoid interactions. The animals' flexibility in timing allows for coexistence between humans and wildlife.
Research suggests that a 1% increase in green space in deprived urban areas could lead to 40% fewer preventable deaths. The study found that access to green space is poorest in the most deprived areas, with significant associations between green space and preventable deaths in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
A study by Texas A&M University has revealed high levels of lead, barium, and chromium in soil samples from the Greater Fifth Ward neighborhood. The findings highlight the need for environmental protection programs to address health risks associated with heavy metal exposure.
Research from an interdisciplinary team at Virginia Tech has shown that sewage surveillance is more efficient and comprehensive than testing individuals in detecting antimicrobial resistance. The study revealed significant correlations between antibiotic resistance genes and socio-economic factors, highlighting the need to address thes...
A new study reveals gentrification's complex impact on residential communities in Seoul, Korea, finding that state-led urban change can lead to emotional displacement of residents. Meanwhile, property-led redevelopment has resulted in direct displacement and replacement of industrial clusters with high-rise residential construction.
A recent study found that the pandemic led to a significant shift towards staying at home, with people spending nearly an hour less per day on out-of-home activities. The trend has continued post-pandemic, with time spent away from home still lower than in 2019.
A new study reveals that invasive silver carp reduce their movement in Chicago-area water due to stress caused by contaminants. The fish's behavior changes when introduced to water from the Illinois River north of Kankakee, suggesting they are avoiding pollutants from the Chicago Area Waterway.
A major international study involving 56,968 adults found that levels of nature connectedness are associated with socioeconomic factors such as financial security, education, and racial majority status. The UK scored higher on the Nature Exposure Scale, while Bosnia and Herzegovina led in this aspect.
A new study has identified novel strains of microbes that have adapted to use limited resources in cities, including those found in Hong Kong's subways and skin. These microbes can metabolize manufactured products, posing health risks if they are pathogenic.