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Science News for July 28, 2017


Sleep or sex? How the fruit fly decides

Researchers found that fruit fly males prioritize courtship over sleep when aroused, while females can't afford to pass up an eligible suitor even if they're tired. The study revealed underlying connections between neural centers mediating sex and sleep in both males and females.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 28, 2017

Engineering on a blue streak

University of Delaware researchers have developed a novel method for creating interpenetrating polymeric networks using blue light, offering a more efficient and sustainable approach. This one-step process enables the formation of complex shapes without solvents or additives, resulting in enhanced toughness and reduced brittleness.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalPolymer Chemistry·DateJul 28, 2017

Making animated characters jump just got easier

A new tool from Disney Research enables novices and experts alike to create high-quality motion cycles in a matter of minutes, enhancing the creative process and expanding artist contributions. The tool uses an algorithm to extract the motion cycle from a performance, allowing for editing and customization.

Rice U. scientists reel in structure of salmon virus

The Rice lab has produced the first full-length structure of a salmon virus protein, shedding light on its role in viral assembly and potentially informing strategies to treat human influenza viruses. The discovery could lead to new antiviral treatments by targeting the protein's interaction with other viral components.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 28, 2017