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Fine particles increase hospital admissions for heart failure and cardiovascular disease

A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that short-term exposure to fine particulate matter increased hospital admissions for cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. The study estimated associations between day-to-day changes in hospital admission rates and fine particulate matter levels in 204 US urban counties.

Immigrants losing homeownership advantage

Research by University of Alberta's Dr. Michael Haan found that immigrants' housing rates dropped in the last few years, while those born in the country increased their homeownership rates. The decline may be linked to diminished labour market fortunes, discrimination, and decreasing median wealth among immigrant groups.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalUrban Studies·DateNov 21, 2005

Paramedic training challenges highlighted by University of Pittsburgh study

A recent study from the University of Pittsburgh highlights the challenges faced by paramedics in performing endotracheal intubation, a critical procedure that requires significant skill and experience. The research found that many paramedics perform intubations less than three times per year, with some not performing any at all.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateJul 18, 2005

Why are coyotes getting more aggressive?

A five-year study aims to investigate why coyotes are becoming more aggressive in urban and suburban areas of New York state, with researchers seeking ways to prevent conflicts with humans. The study will also survey public attitudes and behaviors relating to coyotes, as well as develop methods to induce fear without harm.

Study links ozone, mortality in urban areas

A large-scale study conducted from 1987 to 2000 found a strong link between short-term changes in ground-level ozone and mortality in 95 urban areas, covering 40% of the US population. The study suggests that reducing daily ozone levels by 10 parts per billion could save up to 4,000 lives annually.

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA·DateNov 16, 2004

Indiana University, EPA to study airborne PCBs

Scientists at Indiana University and the EPA will study the circulation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) between the air and Great Lakes, aiming to inform new clean-up policies. Elevated PCB levels have led to fish consumption advisories for all five Great Lakes, with implications for human health.

Breast cancer screening underutilized by ethnic women

A study by University of Toronto researchers found that only 38.5% of Urdu- and Hindi-speaking women had undergone a clinical breast examination, despite 83% being aware of the procedure. The study highlights gaps in knowledge about breast cancer risk and screening methods among South Asian immigrant women.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Immigrant Health·DateAug 16, 2004

Neighborhoods may influence whether residents have asthma

A study of 338 Chicago neighborhoods found that areas with low collective efficacy had higher asthma rates due to lack of trust, poor air quality, and limited access to health services. Neighborhoods with high collective efficacy, on the other hand, had lower asthma rates due to stronger social connections.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJun 1, 2004

Elevated rates of trauma may put urban American Indian women at increased risk for contracting HIV

A study found that urban American Indian women are at higher risk for contracting HIV due to elevated rates of trauma, including physical and sexual abuse. The research suggests that these women may be exposed to HIV infection despite reports of low risk, highlighting the need for assessments of trauma and prevention measures.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAIDS and Behavior·DateMay 10, 2004