Environmental Scientist

The landscape explorer illustrates how the American West has changed

Introduction

New images reveal the diversity of different shapes of hundreds of potential giant viruses living in the soil. One of the shapes has been named “hair story” due to its fibers curling like freshly cut hair. “Gorgon” has tubular appendages that coagulate from its crust. The wings appearing from the “turtle” resemble the reptile’s head, limbs, and tail, as reported by virologist Matthias Fischer and his colleagues in their report on June 30 on bioRxiv.org.

The Amazing Structural Diversity of Giant Viruses in Forest Soil

Since the discovery of the first giant virus in 2003, scientists have uncovered many giant viruses in the environment. These viruses are 10 to 50 times the diameter of the viruses that cause the common cold. Genetic data indicate that giant viruses are diverse, widespread, and abundant.

Diversity of Shapes and Potential Functions of Giant Viruses

The new images aid in understanding the viral biology of giant viruses. These different shapes in viruses may assist in various functions like infection and navigating the environment. However, there are still many bizarre shapes yet to be discovered. Researchers believe these findings are just the beginning of our understanding of the diversity of giant viruses.

Electrical Brain Implants May Help Patients with Severe Brain Injuries

Introduction

Research indicates that electrical brain implants could be an effective way to assist patients with severe brain injuries. This technique may help restore affected brain functions and improve the quality of life for patients.

Benefits of Electrical Brain Implants

Electrical brain implants are considered a promising technique in the field of neuroscience. They can help improve the motor, sensory, and cognitive functions of patients with severe brain injuries. This technique could be a significant step in enhancing the available treatments for these patients.

Beware Fish: Glass Dolphins May Be Able to Sense Your Heartbeat

Introduction

Research suggests that glass dolphins may be capable of sensing the heartbeats of fish. This unique ability helps dolphins locate and feed on fish. This discovery is important for understanding the environmental relationships between different animals in the seas and oceans.

The Importance of Heartbeat Sensing for Glass Dolphins

The ability of glass dolphins to sense fish heartbeats is significant in the marine food chain. This ability may affect fish distribution and the balance of the ecosystem in the oceans. This discovery could contribute to protecting the marine environment and maintaining biodiversity.

Source: https://www.sciencenews.org/article/potential-giant-viruses-soil-microbiology

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