MPC1 is expressed in the human hair follicle, and inhibition of MPC inhibits cell cycle progression and disrupts gene expression of the hair follicle signaling pathway. A) MPC1 and PDK immunoreactivity in human hair follicle. CTS-connective tissue sheath. DP–dermal papilla; DSC–skin wrap cup; GL–germinating layer; HS–hair shaft; IRS-internal root sheath; L-ORS – lower outer root … Read more
Schematic diagram of a topological photonic alloy. The red star indicates the position of the line source, and the arrow indicates the propagation direction of the chiral edge state. Credit: Qu et al. Photonic junctions, alloy-like materials that combine two or more photonic crystals, are promising candidates for developing structures that control the propagation of … Read more
Early humans appear to have experienced a sudden and rapid advance in technology around 600,000 years ago, according to new findings from a team of anthropologists exploring the use of ancient stone tools. The researchers behind the findings say this likely represents a pivotal point in ancient human development, where the transfer of ancient knowledge … Read more
To create nHz frequency signals, the vacuum transitions must be supercooled. These slow transitions struggle to complete due to the cosmic expansion of the universe. Even if the transition is complete, the wave frequencies can be shifted by nHz. Therefore, while nanohertz gravitational waves are cold, their origin is likely not very cold. Credit: Andrew … Read more
Artist’s impression of a Type II supernova explosion. These supernovae produce gamma rays and powerful ionizing radiation that is dangerous to life. Credit: ESO Earth’s protective atmosphere has sheltered life for billions of years, creating a haven where evolution produced complex life forms like us. The ozone layer plays a critical role in protecting the … Read more
Chemical structure for thiamine pyrophosphate and protein structure of transketolase. Cofactor thiamine pyrophosphate in yellow and substrate xylulose 5-phosphate in black. Credit: Thomas Shafee/Wikipedia Scientists have prototyped a new method for “rational engineering of enzymes” to deliver improved performance. They have created an algorithm, which takes into account the evolutionary history of an enzyme, to … Read more
Conceptual image of the formation of quantum bipolarons. The blue spheres represent the positively charged ions in the lattice of the material and the two red dots are the Cooper pairs. Credit: Pavel A. Volkov. A new study published in Physical review papers (PRL) explores the potential of quadratic electron-phonon coupling to enhance superconductivity through … Read more
Dyke in Norway cutting into sandstone with older layers. Credit: Cato Andersen/Mapillary, CC BY-SA Our planet was born about 4.5 billion years ago. To understand this incredibly long history, we must study the rocks and the minerals they are made of. The oldest rocks in Australia, which are some of the oldest on Earth, are … Read more