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Science News Archive September 2019 - Page 31


Page 31 of 43

Scientists identify rare evolutionary intermediates to understand the origin of eukaryotes

A new study by Yale scientists identifies ancient prokaryotes with compartmentalized nuclei, shedding light on the origin of eukaryotic cells. They found ribosomal proteins in Archaea with NLS-motifs similar to those in eukaryotic species, suggesting a transitional phase.

Autism traits and social judgments

A study involving over 6,900 people reveals that autism spectrum traits are associated with improved social judgment skills, especially in detecting general patterns and rules. The findings suggest that individuals with autism may excel at perceiving social phenomena due to their unique cognitive abilities.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2019

One-atom switch supercharges fluorescent dyes

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a simple method to turn fluorescent tags on and off with visible light by switching one atom. This technique will enable high-resolution imaging and dynamic tracking of biological processes in living cells, tissues, and animals.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 9, 2019

Testing new treatment for epilepsy patients

Researchers have developed a new machine learning algorithm that can detect the seizure onset zone in just 10-20 minutes, eliminating the need for prolonged monitoring and reducing risks. This breakthrough could lead to a new treatment approach for epilepsy patients, particularly those with drug-resistant forms of the disease.

At-home dialysis improves quality of life

Kaiser Permanente research finds that at-home peritoneal dialysis is safe and effective for managing advanced-stage kidney disease, improving lifestyle and quality of life. The study shows a significant increase in at-home dialysis rates over 10 years, with 80% of patients remaining on it one year after starting.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateSep 9, 2019

Metal-organic framework nanoribbons

Researchers have developed a general method to prepare ultrathin MOF NRBs with high surface area, highly active surface and excellent catalytic efficiency. The proposed method is simple, efficient and versatile, which could be used for the preparation of a series of ultrathin MOF NRBs.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateSep 9, 2019

Building blocks of bird babble identified

Researchers at the University of Zurich and others identified two perceptually distinct sounds in chestnut-crowned babbler calls that are shared across different arrangements. The findings suggest that these elements are meaningless and may be an early step in the emergence of human language.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 9, 2019

Ages of the Navajo Sandstone

A new study published in Geology has determined the ages of Navajo Sandstone deposits, providing a timeline of desertification that occurred during the Early Jurassic. The findings show that parts of eastern Utah's Navajo desert are much older than previously thought, and that the giant sand sea had a wetter climate at times.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateSep 9, 2019