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Science News Archive April 2018 - Page 42


Page 42 of 42

Earth's stable temperature past suggests other planets could also sustain life

A new study from the University of Washington found that early Earth's temperature was moderate, not extremely hot or cold, allowing for a stable climate that enabled life to emerge. This discovery is significant for the search for life on other planets, as it suggests that habitable zones may retain stable climates.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 2, 2018

Is the Milky Way getting bigger?

A team of astronomers has found that galaxies like the Milky Way are slowly increasing in size due to star formation on their outskirts. The study, led by Cristina Martínez-Lombilla, reveals a growth rate of around 500 meters per second, which is fast enough to cover the distance from Liverpool to London in about twelve minutes.

First age-map of the heart of the Milky Way

A new age-map of the Milky Way's center shows that a period of star formation lasting around 4 billion years created the complex structure. The map, produced by an international team, combines data from millions of stars and spectroscopic surveys, revealing that the bar-shaped structure was formed about 7 billion years ago.

UMD researcher uncovers protein used to outsmart the human immune system

A University of Maryland researcher has discovered a protein produced by the bacteria that causes Lyme disease, allowing it to evade the body's first immune response. This breakthrough understanding has significant implications for treating tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease, which is increasingly chronic and prevalent.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 2, 2018

Climate change could raise food insecurity risk

A new study suggests climate change could raise food insecurity risk in many countries due to weather extremes, with the worst impact expected in South and East Asia. At 2°C global warming, most developing countries will face increased vulnerability to food insecurity.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (A )·DateApr 1, 2018