It is possible if we applied a Fast Forier Transform (FFT) to the data since $450 the pattern would be clear (clearer) through that time.
Backing-up the observation by strong math is of course the only way. However, I am not enabled to accomplish this at this time.
Not sure if I want to do it anyway. If we were able to "prove" this with some analysis then who knows how far that info would go. "Bitcoin Price Manipulation On Largest US Exchange" -> Crash.
I don't think so. In normal markets bots are omnipresent, too. Even larger swings (artificial) can help determine the best market price imho.
Reporters should get the hint, that this is a bot dominated domain, as every exchange lists its API documentation.
However, as you shared your observation in the best manner of science, many users trying to exploit that knowledge should smooth it out or render it useless - I suppose.
(Without doing the math, I am forced to explain it as being the human factor: Perceiving patterns in chaos comes to mind).