Science News for March 20, 2016

Hot larvae: Calculating dispersal from unique submarine hot spring ecosystems

Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology researchers compute larval dispersal to understand and protect vent species, such as crabs and shrimp. They estimate larvae can travel long distances using ocean models and deep-ocean profiling floats.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 20, 2016

Only about half of suicidal patients asked if they have access to firearms

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.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalDepression and Anxiety·DateMar 20, 2016

Greater economic backwardness linked to increased civil unrest

A study by the University of East Anglia found that greater economic backwardness is linked to increased civil unrest, including violent and non-violent protests. The researchers suggest that social tension results from a combination of international comparison and the inability to emerge from economic backwardness.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·DateMar 20, 2016