Scientific output continued to increase at MAX IV during 2024, with the facility making societal contributions within areas such as life science, energy and materials science.
New anti-cancer candidate revealed with AI drug screening and X-rays
Consider it a success case or a bright point of discovery in the search for cancer inhibitors. An international team of researchers has identified a new compound to potentially disarm AKR1C3, an upregulated enzyme found in prostate, breast and other cancers, using AI-based drug screening and brilliant X-ray light at MAX IV. Is this study a diamond in the rough or a glimpse of more to come in biomedical research using artificial intelligence?
MAX IV battery matrix: kicked-off
Battery researchers across Sweden gathered last week (19/3) to kickstart the Battery matrix at MAX IV. Researchers came from various universities in Sweden, including Chalmers University, Uppsala University, Linköping University, and Lund University. Led by MAX IV’s beamline scientists Robert Temperton and Justus Just, the workshop focus on engaging discussions for a better support toward the battery research community. Other MAX IV’s scientists and functions, including the facility’s Science Director were also present.
High-speed snapshots reveal hidden details of catalysis
Developments in time-resolved catalysis research opens a long-awaited opportunity to revisit catalytic reactions that have been subject to scientific debate. In this recent publication, the newly developed method has been used to settle the mechanism for carbon monoxide transformation to carbon dioxide over a platinum catalyst. The result is an important step towards optimisation of catalysts.
The brilliant art amongst our stars
On 15 January 2025, the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched from NASA’s Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida bound for the Mare Crisium basin of the moon—carrying with it 47 artistic creations, including MAX IV colleague Filip Persson’s artwork, ‘MAX IV Control System’. The art will be part of humanity’s galactic impression to live for millions of years.
Researchers reveal mechanism behind artificial photosynthesis
Researchers have for the first time revealed the mechanism behind artificial photosynthesis. The study is an important step towards more efficient and tailored devices for local sustainable energy production.
Insights and energy from the MAX IV 36th User Meeting
The 36th User Meeting took place 13-15 January, with nearly 400 participants gathering at the Scandic Star hotel in Lund. It was an engaging event to network and listen to inspiring presentations for beamline users, researchers, collaborators, and students, as well as opportunities to speak with meeting sponsors and instrument vendors.
A new way to look at thyroid tumours
Follicular tumours in the thyroid can be difficult to diagnose as the entire follicle capsule needs to be sliced and inspected in order to detect ruptures. The current protocol involves cytology and histology, but these have limitations. Researchers from Uppsala University (UU) and Lund University (LU) are investigating the potential use of synchrotron-based virtual histology for 3D inspection of the follicle capsule at MAX IV.
Preparing for a new user landscape with LEAPS-INNOV-funded workshop
Inviting new user groups and moving towards more complex and diverse samples require synchrotron facilities to challenge their ways of operation. An important step was taken when beamline scientists and users met to discuss and solve issues in a recent workshop.
Tribute to Sine Larsen
It is with sadness that we have learnt that Sine Larsen passed away on the 2nd of January 2025. Sine was a great friend, colleague and scientist who made significant contributions to Crystallography, Synchrotron Radiation and Science in general.