Researchers showed that machine learning can predict noisy fluctuations in the size of beams generated by synchrotron light sources and correct them before they occur. The work solves a decades-old problem and will allow researchers to fully exploit the smaller beams made possible by recent advances in light source technology. Read more »
ALSNews Vol. 411
December 4, 2019
Crystal Misorientation Toughens Human Tooth Enamel
Researchers discovered that, in the nanoscale structure of human enamel (the hard outer layer of teeth), slight crystal misorientations serve as a natural toughening mechanism. The results help explain how human enamel can last a lifetime and provides insight into strategies for designing similarly tough bio-inspired synthetic materials. Read more »
Argon: Not So Noble in Earth’s Core
Researchers demonstrated the synthesis of a thermodynamically stable compound of argon and nickel at temperatures and pressures representative of the Earth’s core. The ability of argon, a noble gas, to react with other elements under these conditions may help solve outstanding geological questions, including the “missing argon paradox.” Read more »
Genetic Blueprint for the Bioproduction of an Antidepressant Drug Candidate
A set of genes from a marine bacterium has been found to encode the biosynthesis of a promising antidepressant drug candidate. This work, which used the ALS to solve the structure of a key enzyme, could enable industrial-scale bioproduction of the drug in ways that are more efficient and sustainable than chemical synthesis. Read more »
Heidi Clark, ALS Senior Administrator Supervisor
After nine years in the Intellectual Property Office, Heidi Clark joined the ALS two months ago. Keep reading to find out what skills and secret talents she’s brought from previous jobs and just what “ham mode” means. Read more »
New UEC Members for 2020
Welcome to the new Users’ Executive Committee members for 2020! Yingge Du (PNNL), Stephanie Gilbert Corder (ALS), Hope Michelsen (University of Colorado Boulder), Matthijs A. van Spronsen (Berkeley Lab), and Ming Yi (Rice University) will be joining the UEC in January. Read more »
Call for 2017 to 2019 Publications
Our next Department of Energy triennial review is coming up soon. Please help ensure our records include all publications resulting from work done, in whole or in part, at the Advanced Light Source (ALS), especially those published in 2017 to 2019. Read more »
Tony Warwick Receives Director’s Award
Tony Warwick was recognized for outstanding service in the area of x-ray optics and beamline design in support of the mission of Berkeley Lab’s Advanced Light Source. Read more »
Welcome to the 2019–2020 ALS Fellows
This November, we welcomed the new doctoral fellows to the Advanced Light Source in an orientation event. ALS Deputy for Science Andreas Scholl hosted the event and invited guests from around the ALS and Berkeley Lab to give an overview of the resources our fellows will have. Read more »
Warm Coat Drive at the ALS and Molecular Foundry
We are joining forces with the Molecular Foundry to collect clean, new or gently-worn coats for Alameda County Social Services. Now through December 19, you can donate your coats to boxes in the lobby of Building 6 or 67. Last year, we collected 93 coats! Contacts: Cindy Lee (ALS) and Suksham Barun (Molecular Foundry) Read more »