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Science News for June 5, 2015


Why good people do bad things

A recent study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that anticipating a potential ethical dilemma can lead to improved ethical behavior. Participants who identified similar past incidents and anticipated temptation were more likely to behave honestly than those who didn't.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Booth School of Business·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJun 5, 2015

Research published about unexpected complications of low-risk pregnancies

Research reveals that nearly a third of low-risk pregnancies experience unexpected complications requiring non-routine obstetric or neonatal care. The study analyzed data from over 10 million birth certificates and found that women without prenatal risk factors may still face unexpected complications during delivery or postpartum.

SourceCare New England·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJun 5, 2015

Diverse coral communities persist, but bioerosion escalates in Palau's low-pH waters

A new study found that coral reefs in Palau's naturally acidic waters are thriving, despite the expected negative impacts of ocean acidification. However, increased bioerosion was observed, threatening the long-term survival of these ecosystems. The research team hopes to better understand how corals adapt to low pH conditions.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 5, 2015

Study of marine reserves published in Oceanography

The study highlights seven potential benefits of pairing territorial use rights in fisheries (TURFs) and marine reserves, including increased fish abundance, reduced IUU fishing, and improved conservation. TURFs grant exclusive access to designated areas, promoting local ownership and conservation measures.

SourceRare·JournalOceanography·DateJun 5, 2015

Moving sector walls on the nano scale

Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a technique to manipulate domain walls in multiferroic materials, which could lead to new technologies in data storage and electronics. The discovery shows that domain walls can be selectively shifted or altered using electrical fields, paving the way for new applications.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 5, 2015

More accurate continuous glucose monitoring systems can reduce frequency of hypoglycemic episodes

In silico experiments show that more accurate continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems can detect dangerously low blood sugar and reduce the frequency of hypoglycemic episodes. The technology improves glycemic control by providing more precise measurements, enabling better decision-making for individuals with diabetes.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalDiabetes Technology & Therapeutics·DateJun 5, 2015

Personality shapes the way our brains react to eye contact

Researchers found that personality traits, particularly Neuroticism, affect brain activity in response to eye contact. Participants who scored low on Neuroticism exhibited approach-associated brain activity when looking at someone making eye contact, while those with high scores showed avoidance-associated patterns.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateJun 5, 2015

Ladybird colors reveal their toxicity

Research found that ladybird color reveals toxicity to predators, with more conspicuous species being less likely to be attacked. The study used modified cameras and artificial versions of each species to test predation risk, revealing that brighter colors act as warning signals.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 5, 2015