Articles tagged with Firearms
A study published by UC Davis Violence Prevention Research Program found that prior DUIs and other alcohol-related convictions among legal handgun owners in California significantly increased the risk of arrest for violent or firearm-related crimes. The increase was fourfold to fivefold, independent of other risk factors.
Researchers from top universities issue an agenda for action on gun safety, promoting discourse around gun safety rather than control. They propose collaborations with opponents, engaging private industry in evidence-based initiatives to reduce gun-related injuries and deaths.
A new national survey by Northeastern University and Harvard University found that 22% of current US gun owners acquired a gun within the past two years without a background check. The study also revealed significant differences in private firearm sales with and without background checks between states with and without regulations.
The latest collection of articles in JAMA Internal Medicine explores firearm violence in urban areas, with studies focusing on adolescent firearm homicides and social contagion through networks. The research aims to reduce the disproportionate impact of firearm violence on minority populations.
Researchers found that traditional bullets for muzzleloading rifles and black powder rifle cartridges fragment less than modern high-velocity rifle bullets, suggesting a reduced risk of secondary lead poisoning. This could benefit hunters using these styles of guns and scavenging animals that consume game meat.
Researchers found that for every 10-20 instances of temporary gun seizures, one suicide was prevented. The study suggests that risk-based gun removal laws could help identify people at increased risk of violence but without a history of violence.
A narrative review of 34 studies found that stronger firearm laws, especially those with background checks and permit requirements, are associated with decreased firearm homicide rates. However, more research is needed to fully understand the impact of these laws.
The JAMA Internal Medicine theme series focuses on firearm violence, publishing research and opinion articles that highlight the impact of laws and policies. The studies examine trends in gun violence, the effectiveness of background checks, and the immunity of the firearm industry to tort litigation.
HIV-infected patients with chronic HBV and HCV coinfection are at a higher risk for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a leading cause of AIDS-related deaths. The study found that the incidence rate is 10 times higher in HIV-infected persons compared to the general population.
A study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that clearing vacant lots and adding windows to vacant houses can reduce neighborhood gun violence. The intervention yielded significant cost savings for society, with an estimated $333 return on investment.
Researchers recommend measures to reduce US firearm suicide rates, including targeted legislation and smart gun technology. Public education and research are also crucial in preventing firearm suicides.
According to a study published in Annals of Internal Medicine, travelers to Brazil during the 2016 Olympics are at low risk of contracting or spreading Zika virus. The World Health Organization advised that non-pregnant travelers can safely attend events while taking precautions.
A national survey of 3,914 adults found that two-thirds are open to healthcare providers discussing firearms at home, while 66% support talking about seatbelts. Women were more likely than men to support gun discussions, and gun owners with children or suicide risk factors also endorsed the idea.
A study analyzing 762 gun recoveries found that nearly 80% of perpetrators carrying a gun were not the lawful owners, indicating significant theft and trafficking issues in the region. The study also found that more than 30% of recovered guns were reported stolen before recovery, with women being underrepresented as victims.
Since gun law reform in 1996, Australia has seen an accelerating decline in intentional firearm deaths and an absence of fatal mass shootings. Key findings include a significant acceleration in the downward trend for firearm suicides and a non-significant acceleration in the downward trend in firearm homicides.
A new study finds that mental health professionals overestimate their ability to identify mentally ill patients who may engage in firearm violence. The researchers conclude that mental health professionals need more training on firearms issues to prevent firearm trauma by the mentally ill, with a focus on firearm suicides.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health researchers found that firearm ownership is closely tied to suicide rates, with states having higher gun ownership levels experiencing higher gun-related suicides. The study analyzed 33 years of data and found that firearm ownership explained 71% of the variation in state-level g...
Physicians can ask patients about firearms, counsel them on gun safety, and disclose information to third parties as needed. Current federal and state statutes do not prohibit discussing firearms with patients, but many physicians lack training and knowledge to provide effective counseling.
Experts recommend that physicians counsel patients about firearms as part of routine care, focusing on well-being and safety, especially for children. The review paper addresses common misconceptions and provides resources for clinicians and patients to address firearm-related injuries.
A new study by Drexel University researchers found that gun hunting is driving seven monkey species toward extinction on Bioko Island. Four of the seven species are especially vulnerable and unable to adapt to hunting, with the red colobus being the most at risk due to its specialized niche and larger body size. The researchers suggest...
A new study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health researchers found that three-strikes laws increase fatal and non-fatal assaults on officers by 33% and 62%, respectively. In contrast, permit-to-purchase handgun laws appear to protect law enforcement officers against handgun assaults, with Missouri's repeal associated with...
A recent study found that only about half of suicidal patients are questioned about their access to firearms or lethal means by emergency department doctors, leaving a significant opportunity for intervention. Easy access to guns is particularly concerning, with 25% of patients keeping loaded and unlocked guns at home.
A new study by Boston University researchers found that three state laws - requiring firearm identification, ammunition background checks, and universal background checks - can substantially reduce gun deaths. Implementing these laws nationwide could project a national mortality rate of 0.16 per 100,000 people.
A nationwide study found that universal background checks for guns and ammunition can substantially reduce firearm deaths in the USA. Implementing these laws could halve national gun death rates, cutting overall gun deaths to 1.99 per 100000 (81% decrease).
A review of 130 studies across 10 countries found that firearm-related laws led to declines in firearm homicide and suicide rates. Laws regulating background checks and storage also showed specific reductions in certain types of gun deaths.
A new study published in the Journal of Interpersonal Violence found a significant relationship between firearm crime and an increase in concealed-carry gun permits. The research examined county-level data from Florida, which issued over 1.6 million valid concealed-carry permits as of November 2015.
Research identifies distinct geographical patterns of fatal unintentional firearm injuries in seven Appalachian states with lax child access laws. Five Western coastal states show high rates of 'legal intervention' deaths due to police actions or officer fatalities.
The journal has devoted its first special issue to gun violence, with notable findings including household gun ownership increasing risk of gun suicide and statutes restricting DVROs reducing fatal intimate partner violence.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health researchers found a substantial association between state-level firearm ownership rates and killings of women by guns. State gun ownership rates explain 40 percent of the variation in women's homicide victimization rates, compared to just 1.5 percent for men.
A survey of nearly 4,000 people found that 60% of Americans would buy a smart or childproof gun, debunking the argument that there is no market for such guns. The technology uses fingerprint or RFID verification to prevent unauthorized use.
A team of researchers has identified a unique gait pattern among top Russian officials, including President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev. The experts link this 'gunslinger's gait' to military or intelligence training, specifically KGB instruction on keeping the weapon close to the chest while walking.
A study published in Injury Prevention found that gunshot wound patients in urban areas with high crime rates were more likely to die within five years, mainly due to homicide. The research tracked patients after discharge from hospital and showed a significant risk of early death among these survivors.
A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that only 2% of commonly searched websites for firearm storage guidance correctly identified all four safety practices. The four measures include keeping guns locked and unloaded, and storing ammunition in a separate location.
A new study reveals that nonpowder firearms like airsoft and paintball guns can cause severe injuries in pediatric patients. Twenty-nine percent of the children treated for nonpowder gun injuries required surgery, highlighting the need for stricter regulations on muzzle velocities to prevent such incidents.
Firearm-related injuries result in thousands of deaths and injuries each year, with estimated economic costs of FRIs being immense. The average inpatient length of stay for an FRI was almost 7 days at a cost of $22,000, resulting in $679 million annually on inpatient care.
In Trinidad and Tobago, ballistic imaging technology was hindered by inefficient processes, backlogs, and delayed information transmission. The country's Integrated Ballistics Information System (IBIS) generated few hits due to database delays and insufficient evidence input.
Research from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health reveals that Connecticut's permit requirement led to a 15.4% reduction in firearm suicide rates, while Missouri's repeal increased rates by 16.1%. The study suggests factors other than handgun licensing may have contributed to the decline in Connecticut.
A special issue of Preventive Medicine addresses firearm violence, highlighting its impact on public health and the need for increased funding. The article presents key findings on the relationship between alcohol abuse, gun ownership, self-defensive gun use, and criminal acquisition of firearms.
A new study found that the US had a disproportionate number of public mass shooters, with 31% of global incidents occurring on American soil. The study suggests that civilian firearm ownership rates are a strong predictor of a nation's number of public mass shooters.
CU researchers call for improved firearm safety counseling by physicians, emphasizing respectful dialogue and cultural competence. They argue that physicians should reconsider their approach to discussing firearm safety with patients, acknowledging the diverse perspectives of gun owners.
Research suggests that cognitive training can improve shooting abilities by enhancing response inhibition, particularly in individuals with ADHD. The study found that participants who underwent response inhibition training shot fewer civilians in simulated scenarios, indicating a potential new approach to firearms training.
A new study found that Connecticut's permit-to-purchase handgun law, which requires background checks and safety training, led to a 40% drop in firearm-related homicide rates. The law also raised the purchasing age to 21 and restricted sales to licensed dealers.
The article discusses the impact of mass shootings on individuals and communities, highlighting the need for proactive strategies to prevent gun violence. Commentaries from experts offer scientifically grounded solutions, including threat assessment strategies and community-based approaches to address fear and distrust.
Restricting access to firearms for people who misuse alcohol is associated with reduced risk of committing firearm violence. Studies link binge drinking and heavy chronic drinking to aggressive firearm behaviors, while policies in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and the District of Columbia show varying degrees of enforcement.
Researchers propose using tiny robots driven by magnetic potential energy from MRI scanners to treat hydrocephalus and other conditions. The robots can be steered out of the body after treatment, eliminating the need for invasive surgeries.
A new report suggests that gun violence restraining orders can be a promising strategy for reducing firearm homicide and suicide in the US. GVROs allow family members or intimate partners to request an order from a civil court, authorizing law enforcement to remove guns from the individual's possession and prohibiting new purchases.
A study found that approximately 9% of adults in the US have a history of impulsive angry behavior and own or have access to firearms, with young middle-aged men being more likely to carry guns outside their homes.
A new University of Michigan study found that young people who have been injured in a fight have a nearly 60% chance of being involved in a violent incident involving a firearm within two years. The study also identified associated factors, such as drug use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, that increase this risk.
Researchers used longer-read sequencing technology to reconstruct microbial communities, revealing over 400 previously unknown species and improving understanding of environmental processes.
The authors emphasize the need for national policies like background checks and restricting access to firearms by individuals with violent misdemeanor convictions or addiction histories. They also highlight the importance of assessing firearm risk in patients and acting on it, especially when mental illness is present.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that rural youth suicide rates are significantly higher than urban rates, with firearm deaths being the leading cause of death in both sexes. The study analyzed national mortality data from 1996 to 2010 and found that rural areas had nearly twice the number of suicides as urban areas.
A new study found that rural US youth have a nearly double suicide rate compared to urban areas, with a significant increase in hanging as a method. The researchers suggest improving access to mental health care in rural areas through telemedicine and school-based interventions.
Eight health professional organizations and the American Bar Association recommend reducing firearm-related injuries and death in the US through public health approaches. They advocate for criminal background checks, improved access to mental health care, and research into firearm violence causes.
The American College of Physicians and seven national health organizations, along with the American Bar Association, urge policymakers to implement measures reducing firearm-related harm. The organizations support a public health approach to address firearm injuries and fatalities.
Researchers at NIST have demonstrated a technique for mapping deformation in metals that can recover destroyed serial numbers. The method uses electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) to read imprints on steel, revealing crystal damage and improving forensic analysis.
Suicides among white males have increased by 29.1% since 2006, accounting for nearly half of firearm-related deaths in 2012. Homicide rates among black men and women peak in early adulthood before falling steadily thereafter.
A firearm suicide prevention campaign won over nearly half of firearm retailers in New Hampshire, who displayed materials to reduce access to firearms for suicidal individuals. The campaign's success was linked to store owners' belief that reducing access could save a life.
A new study found that states with higher gun ownership rates experience a higher incidence of non-stranger firearms homicides, contradicting the claim that gun ownership deters violent crime. The study also found no significant relationship between gun ownership and stranger-on-stranger homicide rates.
Researchers analyzed recorded gun deaths in the US from 2000 to 2010, finding a significant disparity between racial groups. Gun deaths were twice as common among African-Americans as they were among white citizens, with rates rising in some states and falling in others.
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania demonstrates the feasibility of using low-cost wearable inertial sensors to detect firearm usage with over 99% accuracy. The technology has the potential to enhance deterrence and detection of firearm use in community-supervised populations.