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AGU journal highlights - 17 November 2004

Research papers in Geophysical Research Letters highlight advancements in measuring ocean conveyor belt circulation, tracing large-scale pollution from space, analyzing the energy of strong thunderstorms, and improving space weather predictions using recent satellite data.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 17, 2004

Photons under control

Scientists at Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics create single photons by trapping a calcium ion between two mirrors, allowing for controlled emission. The device enables user-controlled photon emission time and shape, paving the way for quantum information processing.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateOct 28, 2004

Purdue instrument to fashion custom-made proteomics chips

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new method to separate proteins in the gas phase, allowing for faster analysis and enabling the study of hundreds of proteins simultaneously. The technique uses a mass spectrometer to collect ions onto different locations on a chip's surface, producing highly pure protein samples.

SourcePurdue University·JournalScience·DateAug 14, 2003

$2.96 million for nuclear research center at Rutgers

The new center will conduct basic nuclear science research and partner with the Oak Ridge National Laboratory to acquire specific data for the DOE's scientific and engineering effort to maintain the nation's nuclear weapons. The partnership aims to engage faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and students in nuclear science research.

Electronic circuit rides a chemical film

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have developed a new method for growing conducting polymers, called Surface Polymerization by Ion-Assisted Deposition. This method allows for the creation of large areas of films with controlled chemistry and shape on a nanometer scale.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 19, 2003

Sensor uses DNA to detect presence of lead, a dangerous contaminant

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a DNA-based sensor that can detect lead ions in real-time. The sensor uses catalytic DNA with high metal ion selectivity and sensitivity to fluorescence detection, making it an ideal candidate for environmental monitoring and clinical toxicology applications.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 2, 2000

An alternative to giant cyclotrons

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new technique to accelerate ions, using a table-top laser instead of radio-frequency waves. The new technique accelerates ions in almost a million-times shorter distance than a cyclotron, potentially making ion accelerators more affordable and accessible for medical applications.

An Inert Gas Will Keep A Spacecraft In Orbit For 25 Years

Researchers at Hughes Space and Communications have developed a new ion propulsion system that can keep satellites in orbit for up to 25 years, using the inert gas xenon. This innovation reduces the need for frequent fuel replacements, ensuring reliable signal reception and preventing collisions with neighboring satellites.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateSep 9, 1998