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Science News Archive April 2017 - Page 29


Page 29 of 37

Discovered: Novel group of giant viruses

A new group of giant viruses, dubbed Klosneuviruses, has been discovered with a more complete set of translation machinery genes than any other virus known to date. These viruses are thought to have evolved from smaller viruses and encode proteins involved in protein biosynthesis, expanding our understanding of viral evolution.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalScience·DateApr 6, 2017

Unraveling the mystery of snowflakes, from the Alps to Antarctica

Researchers at EPFL's Environmental Remote Sensing Laboratory developed an algorithm to classify six different classes of snowflakes, improving precipitation measurement and forecast accuracy. The study used high-resolution images of snowflakes taken from three angles and analyzed their shape, geometry, and electromagnetic properties.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalAtmospheric Measurement Techniques·DateApr 6, 2017

Study identifies 'night owl' gene variant

Researchers at Rockefeller University discovered a genetic mutation in the CRY1 gene that slows the internal biological clock, causing delayed sleep phase disorder. The mutation affects up to 1 in 75 people and can be present in families, with relatives sharing similar signs of persistent sleep problems.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalCell·DateApr 6, 2017

Ingredients for lasting memories

Researchers found evidence of long-lasting engram cells in the frontal part of the brain, which mature as new memories become permanent. These cells were activated naturally only after weeks of conditioning, suggesting a maturation process that requires input from hippocampal engram cells.

SourceRIKEN·JournalScience·DateApr 6, 2017

Scientists link California droughts and floods to distinctive atmospheric waves

A recent study found that a specific wave pattern in the upper atmosphere, called wavenumber-5, is associated with California's droughts and floods. The wave pattern emerges during the northern winter and can lead to persistent extreme events like heat waves, droughts, and floods. Scientists hope that this new understanding of wavenumb...

Next Generation TimeTree: An expanded history of life on Earth at your fingertips

The next generation TimeTree web combines molecular sequencing data with geological timelines and environmental information. Users can now explore the history of life on Earth in detail, tracing species evolution through time and comparing divergence times between species.

No sugar coating, but sweet nonetheless

A research team from the University of Freiburg has developed a new method to create microprobes that can grow into neural tissue without causing inflammation. These probes can deliver strong signals even after twelve weeks, opening up new possibilities for diagnoses and treatments for conditions like Parkinson's.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalBiomaterials·DateApr 5, 2017

Simulations of DIII-D experiments shed light on mysterious plasma flows

Researchers at PPPL and General Atomics simulated a self-organized flow of superhot plasma that fuels fusion reactions. The findings show that sufficient heating can drive instabilities leading to plasma rotation, which may be used to improve fusion device performance. High-energy beams traditionally injected into the plasma are replac...

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 5, 2017

Catch shares slow the 'race to fish'

A study by Duke University economists found that catch shares reduce the 'race to fish' that compresses fishing seasons. This allows fishers to time their catches with market demand, reducing occupational hazards and improving fish quality. While exceptions exist, benefits still outweigh negatives.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·DateApr 5, 2017