Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine have determined the structures of two enzymes that customize histones, the spool-like proteins around which DNA coils inside the cell.

The structures provide insight into how DNA’s packaging is just as important and intricate as the information in the DNA itself, and how these enzymes are part of a system of inspectors making sure the packaging is in order.

The results are published online this week in the journal Nature Structural and Molecular Biology.

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DURHAM, N.C. — Duke University engineers have created a new generation of lens that could greatly improve the capabilities of telecommunications or radar systems to provide a wide field of view and greater detail.

But the lens they fashioned doesn’t look anything like a lens. While traditional lenses are made of clear substances – like glass or plastic – with highly polished surfaces, the new lens looks more like a miniature set of tan Venetian blinds. Yet its ability to focus the direction of electromagnetic rays passing through it dramatically surpasses that of a conventional lens, the engineers say.

The latest advance was made possible by the ability to fabricate exotic composite materials known as metamaterials. The metamaterial in these experiments is not so much a single substance, but the entire man-made structure which can be engineered to exhibit properties not readily found in nature.

The prototype lens, which measures four inches by five inches and less than an inch high, is made up of more than 1,000 individual pieces of the same fiberglass material used in circuit boards and is etched with copper. It is the precise arrangement of these pieces in parallel rows, that directs the rays as they pass through.

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SEQUIM, Wash. – In a pilot project that could help better manage the planet’s strained natural resources, space-age technologies are helping a Washington state community monitor its water availability. NASA satellites and sensors are providing the information needed to make more accurate river flow predictions on a daily basis.

“World leaders are struggling to protect natural resources for future generations,” said Jeff Ward, a senior research scientist at the Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, which is managed by Battelle. “These tools help us sustainably use natural resources while balancing environmental, cultural and economic concerns.”

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Titan’s ice is stronger than most bedrock found on earth, yet it is more brittle, causing it to erode more easily, according to new research by San Francisco State University Assistant Professor Leonard Sklar. Today, at the American

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Barney is a handsome Collie x who was picked up as a stray. He’s blind in one eye, but this doesn’t bother him at all. He’s hoping to find an active lifestyle with someone who enjoys walking and wants some doggie company.

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Scamp is a quiet and relaxed crossbreed boy and he’s happy around children, other dogs and cats. He’ll make a lovely companion for someone and despite his 14 years he’s still quite fit and well.

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As more and more carbon dioxide enters the Earth’s atmosphere, oceans are becoming more acidic . In fact, this acidification has been blamed for everything from killing off coral to aiding algae and even super-sizing fish ear bones . But the changing marine chemistry may also be altering the deep sea’s acoustic environment, according to a new paper, published online Sunday in Nature Geoscience reports ( Scientific American is part of Nature Publishing Group), making it much noisier for the animals that depend on sound to navigate the watery depths.  [More]

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Okay, he’s not a Westie, but he’s still a dog in need! This is Benjy, an 8 year old Jack Russell cross who needs a new home because his owner has sadly passed away. He’s a friendly chap and could probably live with another dog.

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Massages are great, but I generally prefer the touch of another human over a machine.

Now Osim, the folks who brought us the massaging MP3 player, have one upped their earlier efforts with the uCrown 2 head massager. Combining air pressure technology, vibration massage, magnetic therapy, gentle heat, and even some built in speakers so you can play some relaxing Yanni music, the uCrown 2 is designed to relieve stress while relaxing your muscles. My only concern is that the benefits will be outweighed by the embarrassment of your family pointing and laughing at you.

The uCrown 2 is available now for $200.

Brookstone, via Coolest Gadgets

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Hercules is a 7 year old Bengal cat and he’s looking for a new home with someone who has experience of this breed. He’s very playful and is a real house cat, but likes to enjoy the outdoors with his owner when the weather is nice.

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My name is Cuddles and I’d love to find a home with someone who will be around for some of the day. I’m a little shy at first, but once I know you I’ll make a great companion. I’d be fine with another cat, but I’m not used to dogs.

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9 year old Pepe is looking for a patient and understanding owner who will allow him time to build up his confidence. He’s a little nervous at times, but loves having company and would probably be okay living with another sociable cat.

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This is Goldie, a 12 year old Ridgeback x Staffie. She’s an easy going girl who would like a new home where she’ll be the only dog. She doesn’t ask for much – just some nice walks, a comfy bed and lots of love.

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Charlie is a calm and friendly crossbreed girl, aged 10 years old. She loves company, but doesn’t mind being left for short periods of time. She could live with older children and would probably be okay with another laid-back dog.

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The Soyuz TMA-17 rocket launches from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan at 4:52 p.m. EST on Sunday, Dec. 20, carrying Expedition 22 NASA Flight Engineer Timothy J. Creamer of the U.S., Soyuz Commander Oleg Kotov of Russia and Flight Engineer Soichi Noguchi of Japan to the International Space Station. Photo Credit: NASA/Bill Ingalls

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