Alligators exposed to PFAS show autoimmune effects

A recent study of alligators in the Cape Fear River found the animals had elevated levels of 14 different per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) chemicals in their blood serum, as well as clinical and genetic indicators of immune system effects. The work adds to the body of evidence connecting PFAS exposure with adverse immune system effects.

source https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/alligators-exposed-to-pfas-show-autoimmune-effects

Learning about human cancer from fruit flies

Scientists in Singapore and Spain have gained new insights into the activity of a tumor-suppressor protein in fruit flies that could aid the understanding of some human cancers. The study, published in PLOS Biology, might eventually lead researchers toward new cancer treatments and prevention.

source https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/learning-about-human-cancer-from-fruit-flies

Study: Live chat boosts college women's class participation

Women much more enthusiastically embraced the live chat function during pandemic Zoom classes than men, according to a new University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) study. Researchers hope the data could be a key to broadening underrepresented groups' access to STEM disciplines as colleges incorporate technology into hybrid and even in-person courses.

source https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/study-live-chat-boosts-college-womens-class-participation

Color-selective, three-dimensional polarization structures

Polarization has been a central concept to our understanding of optics and has found many applications ranging from quantum science to our daily life. 3D polarization structures possess peculiar optical features and extra degrees of freedom for carrying information.

source https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/color-selective-three-dimensional-polarization-structures

Warming waters 'key culprit' in Alaska crab mass die-off

Climate change is a prime suspect in a mass die-off of Alaska's snow crabs, experts say, after the state took the unprecedented step of canceling their harvest this season to save the species.

source https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/warming-waters-key-culprit-in-alaska-crab-mass-die-off

Model calculates energetics of piercing fangs, claws and other biological weapons

Researchers have created a model that can calculate the energetics involved when one organism stabs another with its fangs, thorns, spines or other puncturing parts. Because the model can be applied to a variety of organisms, it will help scientists study and compare many types of biological puncturing tools, researchers said. It also will help engineers develop new systems to efficiently pierce materials or resist being pierced.

source https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/model-calculates-energetics-of-piercing-fangs-claws-and-other-biological-weapons