Approximately 1,700 scientists visit SSRL annually to conduct experiments in broad disciplines including life sciences, materials, environmental science, and accelerator physics. Science highlights featured here and in our monthly newsletter, Headlines, increase the visibility of user science as well as the important contribution of SSRL in facilitating basic and applied scientific research. Many of these scientific highlights have been included in reports to funding agencies and have been picked up by other media. Users are strongly encouraged to contact us when exciting results are about to be published. We can work with users and the SLAC Office of Communication to develop the story and to communicate user research findings to a much broader audience.
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Crystal Structures of the Synaptotagmin-SNARE Complex that is Essential for Synchronous Synaptic Neurotransmitter Release
Neurons in our brains communicate via neurotransmitter signaling molecules. When prompted by a calcium signal, the cells can release neurotransmitters at speeds of less than one-thousandth of a second. This lightening-fast process is carried out by a protein complex of synaptotagmin-1, which detects calcium, and SNARE, which provides energy for neurotransmitter release.
Strong Orbital-selective Correlation Effects Unite Iron Chalcogenide Superconductors
A superconductor can carry an electrical current with no resistance, so no energy is lost. This quantum mechanical effect was first discovered in certain materials when cooled to very low temperatures, with the highest record at -250°C.
Small-angle X-ray Scattering from Magnetic Clusters and Structural Grains in Magnetic Recording Media
Magnetic data storage devices are ubiquitous in our modern, data-rich world. Computer hard disks, magnetic recording tape, and magnetic strips on credit cards use such devices, creating pressure to engineer ever greater data density on smaller surfaces. Magnetic data storage surfaces are designed to have sub-microscopic regions containing tiny, magnetic grains.
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We can work with users and the SLAC Office of Communication to develop the story and to communicate user research findings to a much broader audience.